We Tested the Best Popsicle Molds for Refreshing Treats All Summer (2025)

When the weather is warm, there’s no better way to cool off than with an ice-cold popsicle. And if you have a reusable popsicle mold at your disposal, you won't have to make a trip to the store first. Making your own ice pops means you can control the ingredients, limit waste, and save some money along the way.

Popsicle molds, which are typically made of silicone, plastic, or stainless steel in various shapes and sizes, make it easy to whip up a batch of homemade treats from whatever you have in your refrigerator. Think fruit, honey, yogurt, and even ingredients like granola. Leftover smoothie? Pour it into a popsicle mold. Wanna make them boozy? That's also an option!

To save you the distress of opening up your freezer to a sticky mess or removing a broken popsicle from your mold, we tested 20 models ourselves. After hours of testing (and a few spills), we're revealing the best popsicle molds that freeze quickly, unmold smoothly, and feature sturdy bases for a mess-free experience.

Our Top Picks

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What We Like

  • Easy-to-release pops

  • Sticks have drip guards

  • Comes with protective sleeves

What We Don't Like

  • Very thick

This popsicle mold earns top honors for being functional and convenient. With six slots, you’ll be able to make enough ice pops for the average family, but you won’t wind up with a ton of excess or a mold that’s too bulky to fit in your organized freezer.

The set is very sturdy and easy to pour into, and we love that the reusable sticks create a seal onto the molds so they can be taken out of the frame to store individually once they're frozen. We also appreciate that even dark and intense colors do not stain the clear plastic.

Because the plastic is fairly thick, you’ll need to run each popsicle under hot water for at least 10 to 15 seconds in order for it to release. Unlike some other molds, we’ve never had any issue with the plastic holder stick separating from the popsicle like wooden sticks can. These are easy to hold, a delight to eat from, and cleanup is quick.

These are both BPA-free and phthalate-free, ensuring these molds are food-safe, and each of the six classically shaped molds holds 3 fluid ounces, making each treat comparable to what you’d find in the grocery store. This set comes with drip guards, too—another family-friendly bonus.

Material: Polypropylene | Number of Pops: 6 | Pop Size: 3.1 ounces each

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What We Like

  • Includes funnel for pouring

  • Popsicles are comfortable to hold

  • Easy to clean

  • Assorted colors

What We Don't Like

  • Removal can be more difficult

These sturdy plastic popsicle molds from Ozera make six popsicles and come in a range of colors, including assorted. The set includes a collapsable funnel for mess-free pouring and a small brush for cleaning. They're also dishwasher safe and each popsicle has a drip guard.

In our tests, the funnel made it extremely easy to pour juice or purees into the molds. The stand sat flat and sturdy in the freezer without any spillage, and the resulting popsicles were comfortable to hold with a rounded plastic handle. Removing the popsicles from their molds wasn't as easy as others, but we found that dipping them in a warm glass of water or running them under the faucet did the trick. Overall, this set performs well and offers great value.

Material: Silicone | Number of Pops: 6 | Pop Size: Unspecified

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What We Like

  • Easy for kids to handle

  • Freeze quickly

  • Solid construction

  • East to remove from molds

What We Don't Like

  • Only makes four popsicles

Pure fruit popsicles are undoubtedly one of the best snacks for babies and toddlers, but the classic variety can be top-heavy, making them difficult for little hands to hold onto. That’s where this clever mold comes in. It's short and squat and creates four mini popsicles (each one holds just 1 ounce of liquid) that are perfectly shaped for the tiniest set. What’s more, a looped handle makes the snack easier to grip, so babies as young as six months can enjoy a frozen treat (great for soothing the sore gums of teethers!).

We tested these molds with purees of strawberry, blueberry, apple, grape, pear, and coconut juice. It was easy to pour the puree into the molds, and it only took about three hours to freeze throughout because of the small size. The design felt sturdy (it has a small footprint that lays flat in the freezer), and it only took a slight wiggle of the handles to unmold the popsicles once they were frozen.

Besides the impressive functionality, we also love the fact that each stick has a wide popsicle-holder base that catches drips as the popsicle melts for a mess-free experience. One con we have is that we wish it made more than four at a time. Though plastic, the mold is entirely BPA-free.

Material: Plastic | Number of Pops: 4 | Pop Size: 1 ounce each

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What We Like

  • Safe and durable material

  • Complete kit

  • Freezes quickly

  • More sustainable than plastic

What We Don't Like

  • Pricey

If you’re hesitant to use plastic or silicone (even if it is made of BPA-free material), a metal popsicle mold is a great option. This six-cavity option is crafted from 18/8 stainless steel, which means it's a bit pricey. But not only is it food-safe but also extremely durable and long-lasting. The mold also comes with a stand for storage, lids for each pop, 12 removable silicone rings to prevent spills, and a set of reusable bamboo sticks.

After testing, we think the Onyx stainless steel molds are best suited for children seven years and up since the metal material makes them very cold to the touch and trickier to unmold. It’s an easy fix, though—simply run the mold under warm water until things loosen up. The durable stainless steel mold is easier to clean than plastic, and it won't stain or retain flavors and smells from other ingredients. The popsicles were fully frozen after eight hours and very comfortable to hold.

Material: Stainless Steel | Number of Pops: 6 | Pop Size: 3+ ounces each

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What We Liked

  • Fun for kids

  • Retains shape extremely well

  • Sturdy standup design

What We Don't Like

  • Can be too bulky for some freezers

If there’s one thing every parent knows, it’s that sometimes kids are more likely to try new foods—like healthy smoothie pops—if they’re shaped like something fun. With this popsicle mold, you can make four dino-shaped pops sure to please your tots.

Whether we loaded them with a batch of Greek yogurt and mixed berries or plain pineapple puree, these molds were an absolute hit during our testing period. We love the reusable sticks that are shaped like dino tails, and the portion of the stick that's inserted into the ice pops is shaped like dino bones. The wide-mouth molds are super easy to fill, but we did note that unmolding the pops is trickier due to the intricate shapes. We found that folding up the lip of the silicone mold before slowly pulling it upwards and inverting the mold inside out worked best.

And, because every parent also wants convenience, you’ll delight in the fact that this mold is completely dishwasher-safe.If there’s any drawback, it’s that the stand can be a bit bulky for smaller freezers. The tradeoff: It’s nice and sturdy, so it won’t tip if you do have the space.

Material: Silicone and plastic | Number of Pops: 4 | Pop Size: 2.64 ounces each

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What We Like

  • Lays flat

  • Dishwasher-safe

  • Can use individually

  • Easy to unmold

What We Don't Like

  • Popsicles are top-heavy

Not all freezers can easily accommodate popsicle molds—even small ones that make just two or four treats—because they tend to be a bit bulky. But this flat mold is a great option for anyone since it doesn’t take up a ton of vertical space, and the quantity isn’t set in stone—make just one if that’s all you have room for.

The kit comes with everything you need to get started on your first popsicles, including reusable plastic sticks. There’s no need to labor over cleaning, either, since you can stick the mold in the dishwasher when you’re done. We enjoyed the lay-flat design during testing since it made them easy to fit in a freezer, but also really appreciate the separate molds (making it easy to assemble just one or two pops at a time if you're low on space or ingredients). The lightweight sticks may give the popsicles a top-heavy feel in larger hands, but they're perfect for smaller ones, and the molds peel off easily.

Material: Silicone | Number of Pops: 4 | Pop Size: Unspecified

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What We Like

  • Drip-guard handle

  • Slim base

  • Dishwasher safe

What We Don't Like

  • Molds click into the base

The base of these popsicle molds is narrow and single-row, so pouring your ingredients is easier and more efficient. They also click into place on the base, making it easy to detach individual popsicles to enjoy as needed. This feature is one to check, though, to make sure everything is in place and won't fall over while the ingredients are being poured in or while it is in the freezer.

We made everything from chocolate fudgesicles to fruity popsicles combining mango, strawberry, blueberry, banana, and honey with these molds. The popsicles came out smoothly after running them under the water for a few seconds, and the sturdy plastic bottom acts as a drip catcher. The molds were easy to wash and rinse by hand with hot water since there are no small crevices for extra food particles to build up—but they're conveniently dishwasher safe, as well.

Material: Plastic | Number of Pops: 5 | Pop Size: 3.2 ounces

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What We Like

  • Includes cleaning brush

  • Can choose between sets with 50 or 200 wood sticks

  • Compact design

What We Don't Like

  • Require an extra step before freezing

Ideal for larger families or groups, this set comes with 10 separate popsicle molds that fit into a consolidated tray. Once the pops are frozen, you can detach them individually and store the rest together in the tray for later. Despite the large number of popsicles, the set features a compact design that won't take up too much space in your freezer. While they are kid-friendly, we found that using a funnel to pour the ingredients and running the molds under warm water before removing them from the popsicle made the experience easier (and cleaner).

You can choose between 50 and 200 disposable wooden sticks—enough to supply popsicles for a long time. Keep in mind that the instructions for these molds include an additional step; They suggest freezing the molds in the base with the liquid for an hour before inserting the wooden popsicle sticks.

Material: Wood, plastic | Number of Pops: 10 | Pop Size: 2.25 ounces

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Final Verdict

Our best overall popsicle mold is the Zoku Classic Pop Mold, a classically shaped ice pop maker that allows you to whip up six 3-ounce treats at a time. The mold comes with everything you need, including sticks with drip guards and storage sleeves, and it performed best in our tests. Looking for a non-plastic option? Try the Onyx Stainless Steel Popsicle Mold.

How We Tested Popsicle Molds

We tested a total of 20 popsicle molds with different styles, budgets, and materials (stainless steel, plastic, or silicone), paying particular attention to attributes like design, ease of use, performance, ease of cleaning, and overall value. We made popsicles using both fruit-based and cream-based recipes with each mold, recording how long it took for each batch to freeze entirely and noting how easy or difficult it was to unmold them once fully frozen.

After unmolding, we examined the shape of each pop and described the comfort level of holding the sticks. We especially looked at the construction of the molds. Was it possible to detach individual popsicles? Does the mold seem flimsy or unsteady in the freezer? Were there any spills or leaks during the testing process? Finally, we noted how easy they were to clean and how well they held up after use.

How We Test Products

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What to Look for in a Popsicle Mold

Materials

Popsicle molds, like ice trays, come in a myriad of styles, shapes, and materials, although they're typically made of rigid plastic or silicone. While plastic molds have been around for a long time, it’s easy to see why silicone has become so popular. Unlike the former, which often requires some wiggling or hot water to free the popsicle from the mold, flexible silicone can be pushed or peeled away. Metal popsicle molds can also be purchased, but they tend to be more expensive and bulky.

Size

Most popsicle molds will hold between 2 to 4 ounces of liquid, though there isn’t necessarily a standard size. Popsicle molds designed for toddlers can be even smaller—around 1 ounce. This can be tricky if you’re using a recipe to whip up popsicles, but the excess can be stored in a fridge if your yield doesn’t line up to the number and size of your molds.

If you have young kids, you may want to go for smaller molds. “Smaller is better, because I have little kids and they don’t typically eat a whole popsicle," says Lisa Stelly, founder of Fancy Sprinkles. "So if it’s smaller, it’s easier for them to finish and less waste.”

Tray Style

Most popsicle molds, no matter the material, consist of a single piece and individual sticks or handles. Since it has to be stored upright, the height of the tray might be a consideration for smaller fridges. For more flexibility, some plastic molds mimic this shape, but with removable molds for each popsicle. Individual push pop-style molds, while they don’t come with a tray, often need to be frozen standing up in a freezer-safe cup or mold to prevent drips. If space is a concern, you can also find trays that allow the popsicle to sit on its side as it freezes.

Mold Shape

Many popsicle molds resemble the shape of a popsicle you’d get from an ice cream truck: a tall, slightly curved rectangle. But these days, the only limit is your imagination. Molds can be shorter and squatter (great for small freezers), mini for toddlers, and even shaped like monsters, fish, and more.

Sticks

While store-bought popsicles come with disposable sticks, you have some flexibility when it comes to popsicle molds. Most come with plastic reusable handles that slot into the mold. This has two benefits: You’ll never have to worry about having popsicle sticks on hand and you won’t have to use any single-use products. Some come with drip guards to help keep hands clean. Others may even be ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip. They won't have a long, narrow end that could poke the back of a toddler’s throat, either.

Single-use popsicle sticks, however, have certain advantages, too. Namely, you don’t have to worry about collecting plastic handles or keeping a set together. Plus, they have a nostalgic appeal.

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FAQs


How do you get a popsicle out of a mold?

It’s surprisingly easy to get a popsicle out of a mold, especially if you’re using a food-safe silicone mold. These molds simply peel back slightly, allowing you to easily wiggle the frozen treat free. For plastic or metal molds (or any silicone options giving you trouble), run the mold under warm—not hot—water until the ice pop begins to loosen. Pull gently to release.

What can you put in a popsicle mold?

When making homemade ice pops, the sky’s the limit. You can use fruit juice, vegetable juice, yogurt, milk, leftover smoothie, or even wine as your base. Options for add-ons are just as vast. Think chocolate shavings, granola, chunks of fruit, sprinkles, and more.

What are the different types of popsicle molds?

Plastic molds tend to be a classic popsicle shape and typically come with reusable plastic handles. Lightweight and usually easy to clean in the dishwasher, the main disadvantage of plastic molds is that they often have to be run under water to loosen the popsicles.Silicone, on the other hand, offers the ability to quickly and easily remove a popsicle from the mold. Because the mold itself is flexible, silicone popsicles also come in an array of shapes and sizes.

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

This article was written by Brigitt Earley, a freelance writer who has spent the last 10-plus years researching the best kitchen accessories for various digital publications, including The Spruce and Good Housekeeping. From popsicle molds to blenders, she’s covered it all. Brigitt also has a culinary degree from The French Culinary Institute.

Sources

The 7 Best Blenders

We Tested the Best Popsicle Molds for Refreshing Treats All Summer (2025)

FAQs

Should you spray popsicle molds? ›

The perfect summer treat! This recipe makes 10 popsicles. Popsicle molds should be at room temperature before assembling. Spray down inside each mold with non-stick cooking spray.

What can I use as a mold for popsicles? ›

Wax-coated paper cups are a classic alternative to popsicle molds. Just fill the cup with your popsicle mixture and freeze for a little bit before adding a wooden stick (this helps it stick up straight in the center).

How to keep popsicles from sticking in mold? ›

I find the best method is to fill a pan or container that is at least as tall as your mold with warm (not hot) water, and briefly dip the mold in until the pops loosen, about 20 to 30 seconds.

Can silicone popsicle molds go in the dishwasher? ›

The silicone popsicle molds are dishwasher safe, but we recommend hand wash. They are easy… Q: Is the ice pop easy to get out from the silicone popsicle mold? Yes, the soft silicone lid are easy to get off and you can easilier get the ice pop out fr…

How do you make popsicles creamy and not icy? ›

Fortunately, there's an easy way to prevent this unwanted outcome by using an unexpected ingredient: cornstarch. When you're creating the mixture for your popsicles, you can add a few teaspoons of cornstarch. Blend it with the rest of your ingredients, then pour the liquid into the popsicle molds as usual.

What keeps popsicles from freezing solid? ›

Pectin, like other common popsicle 'secret ingredients' like gelatin, cornstarch, alcohol, or the various gums/stabilizers used in commercial popsicles, is often used in popsicles to keep the ice crystals small. Like with ice cream, smaller ice crystals means a smoother mouthfeel and a less icy consistency.

How to make homemade popsicles softer? ›

To get a slightly softer texture, add more sweetener or a fatty milk product like heavy cream. Both lower the freezing point of the puree and gives it a less icy final finish.

Can you put ice cream in a silicone mold? ›

The high-volume design can make ice cream with different flavors, such as juice or milk at the same time, and share them with your family. Durable Molds: The ice mold is made of silicone material and can withstand temperatures from -100°F to 425°F.

Can you use silicone molds for popsicles? ›

Popsicle molds, which are typically made of silicone, plastic, or stainless steel in various shapes and sizes, make it easy to whip up a batch of homemade treats from whatever you have in your refrigerator. Think fruit, honey, yogurt, and even ingredients like granola.

Can you freeze soda in popsicle molds? ›

Soda Pop Popsicles

Tap molds gently to remove air bubbles. Insert popsicle sticks, then place molds (or cups) in a metal cake pan or other level surface in the freezer. If using cups, freeze pops for 90 minutes, then add sticks. Freeze at least 4 hours, of overnight.

How do you make popsicles not freeze so hard? ›

Adding a bit of cornstarch to a popsicle recipe made with cucumber, water, and golden syrup creates a softer, more pleasing texture. Photo by Evan Kleiman.

What does cornstarch do in popsicles? ›

The secret to making no “icy” popsicle is adding cornstarch to the recipe! This will make popsicles less icy and more creamy. Cornstarch acts as a stabilizer and keeps the liquid ingredients in the popsicle from moving and forming just chunks of ice.

Can you put ice cream in a popsicle mold? ›

4. Spoon the ice cream into the popsicle mold and press down to fit into the space and smooth out. Place stick for the mold into the ice cream at this time.

Why aren't my popsicles sticking to the stick? ›

You're trying to remove the pops before they're fully frozen. A good way to tell if your pop is frozen is by testing it with a toothpick. If it doesn't feel solid at the base of the stick, it's probably not ready yet.

Should you spray silicone molds? ›

NEVER use nonstick spray of any kind on your silicone molds or Silpats. The propellants in the spray will leave a residue that will build up over time and leave a sticky residue that will have the opposite effect and everything will stick.

Can you spray paint popsicle sticks? ›

If you decide to use markers, I recommend a clear coat to seal them. You can use clear spray paint or clear nail polish. I sometimes use a sparkle nail polish with a clear base for some added glitz!

How do you fill silicone popsicle molds? ›

Simply fill the ice pop mold with your favorite food or beverage, close the lid, and store in the freezer. a few hours ,popsicles are ready. The ice pops can be easily pushed out from silicone popsicel molds when running warm water over the mold for a few seconds.

How to remove frozen popsicles from mold? ›

A: run warm water over the mold for a few seconds before removing.

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