
These easy creamy chocolate popsicles are my secret weapon for hot days when nothing but a cold fudgy treat will do. They come together with only three ingredients and turn out rich and chocolatey every time. If you grew up loving classic chocolate ice cream bars, these will absolutely hit the spot and taste amazingly close to the real thing.
I started making these when my son begged for store-bought ice blocks one summer. Now we always have a batch stashed in the freezer and everyone loves customizing their own at home.
Ingredients
- Coconut whipped cream: Gives these pops their dreamy texture. Try to find a can of coconut cream with at least 75 percent coconut for the richest result.
- Coconut condensed milk: Sweetens and thickens everything up. Check for brands with minimal added thickeners for the best flavor.
- Cacao powder: Makes the bars deeply chocolatey. Use a good quality dark cacao for next-level taste.
- Salt: Hint brings out all the chocolate flavors — just a pinch does wonders.
- Optional vanilla extract: Rounds everything out. If your coconut products are strong in flavor, vanilla helps mellow them out.
- For the chocolate shell: Use real dark chocolate and coconut oil or peanut butter for shine and a little crunch. You can sprinkle with your favorite chopped nuts or sea salt too.
Instructions
- Prep Your Tools:
- To start have your popsicle molds ready on a stable surface. If using paper cups, line them up and have sticks handy.
- Mix the Base:
- Combine coconut whipped cream, coconut condensed milk, cacao powder, salt and vanilla (if using) in a small saucepan. Place over low heat. Gently warm while stirring until completely smooth and pourable. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes and you do not need to let it boil or simmer.
- Pour and Freeze:
- Carefully pour the smooth mixture evenly into the molds. Insert popsicle sticks and tap molds gently to remove air bubbles. Transfer to the freezer and let them set for at least three hours or until solid.
- Unmold the Popsicles:
- Run metal or plastic molds under hot water for a few seconds to loosen. Remove by pulling on the stick. Silicone molds will pop out easily.
- Serve:
- Let popsicles sit at room temperature for a minute or two before eating. This softens them up for the creamiest bites.
- Make the Chocolate Shell (Optional):
- Melt dark chocolate pieces with coconut oil or peanut butter in a bowl over barely simmering water. Stir until glossy. Remove popsicles from freezer. Dip each one into the warm chocolate then lay onto a lined tray. Sprinkle with nuts or salt if you like. Return popsicles to the freezer for five minutes until the chocolate is set.

My favorite part has to be the coconut condensed milk. It adds a delicate sweetness and creates that irresistible creamy bite. I remember my niece sticking her finger right into the mixing bowl just to get a taste and she was hooked even before they set.
Storage Tips
Store popsicles in an airtight container or a ziplock bag with excess air squeezed out to keep them from picking up freezer odors. Popsicles taste best within about two weeks but are safe to eat even if kept a month. They rarely last that long in my house.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have coconut condensed milk, you can use regular sweetened condensed milk for nonvegan pops or try oat condensed milk if you want to keep it plant based. Cacao can be swapped with a good Dutch cocoa, but the depth of true cacao really comes through. If you cannot find coconut whipped cream, simply use full fat coconut cream, but chill then whip until fluffy before using.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with fresh berries, spoon over a drizzle of extra melted chocolate or roll in toasted coconut for a true treat. They also make a smashing summer dessert after a barbecue or birthday party. For kids, set up a mini toppings bar and let them have fun decorating their own.
Cultural Context
The classic chocolate paddle pop has been an Aussie freezer staple for generations. Making this vegan version means you can create a nostalgic favorite that fits any diet. These pops bring a touch of that old school magic but taste even more special because they are homemade.

These homemade popsicles are pure chocolate bliss and so easy to whip up. Make a double batch— they disappear fast!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of coconut cream should I use?
Choose a thick, full-fat coconut whipped cream for best texture and richness in your popsicles.
- → Is cacao powder interchangeable with cocoa powder?
Yes, you can substitute high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder if cacao is unavailable; adjust sweetness to taste.
- → How long do the popsicles need to freeze?
Freeze the popsicles for at least 3 hours, or until completely solid, for optimal texture and easy removal.
- → Can I add extra flavors?
Absolutely! Vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, or a nutty chocolate coating are all delicious optional additions.
- → What's the best way to remove popsicles from molds?
Briefly dip the mold in hot water for a few seconds, then gently pull to release. Silicone molds make it even easier!