Watermelon Margarita Popsicles: Easy Boozy & Non-Alcoholic Frozen Treat Recipe

Kick up your feet, beat the heat, and unwind with the most delightful Watermelon Margarita Popsicles! This versatile recipe offers options for both irresistible tequila-infused boozy pops and equally refreshing non-alcoholic versions, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of summer paradise.

While the official start of summer might still be a few weeks away on the calendar, for many, the arrival of Memorial Day signals the unofficial kickoff to sun-drenched days and warm evenings. With temperatures already soaring into the 80s, it’s hard not to crave those quintessential summer moments, and what better way to embrace them than with a deliciously cooling treat?

What truly defines summer for you? Is it the thrill of embarking on a much-needed vacation to explore new destinations? Perhaps it’s the simple pleasure of spending endless hours in the great outdoors, whether camping under the stars or casting a line while fishing. Or does it involve ditching the oven entirely and firing up the grill at every available opportunity, savoring smoky flavors?

For me, summer evokes images of vibrant, fresh seasonal produce. From the crisp sweetness of corn and the juicy ripeness of tomatoes to plump strawberries and, of course, the iconic, thirst-quenching watermelon – these are the flavors that truly encapsulate the season. And when it comes to watermelon, there’s no better way to enjoy it than in a playful, frozen form.

These incredibly refreshing Watermelon Margarita Popsicles draw inspiration from two of my beloved creations: my classic watermelon margaritas and delightful watermelon popsicles. While traditional margaritas typically feature zesty lime, for these frozen delights, I opted for an abundance of fresh, bright lemons. This choice infuses the popsicles with a wonderfully tart and sweet flavor profile, reminiscent of homemade lemonade popsicles, but with that unmistakable margarita twist.

Don’t get me wrong – there’s immense satisfaction in a perfectly chilled glass of margarita. However, I wanted to elevate the experience, inject a little more playfulness, and transform this beloved cocktail into a fun, handheld “margarita freeze pop.” Imagine savoring the vibrant taste of a margarita, but in a convenient, mess-free frozen form!

These delightful treats aren’t just for casual summer days; they also make fantastic additions to festive gatherings. Picture serving these vibrant Cinco de Mayo popsicles alongside savory steak fajitas for two or a fresh chicken fajita salad. They add a burst of color and flavor that guests of all ages (with the non-alcoholic option!) will adore.

Seriously, can you recall a single instance when eating a popsicle didn’t bring a smile to your face? (Brain freeze moments perhaps being the sole exception – I’ll grant you that one!). There’s something inherently joyful about them.

To take this frosty fun a step further, I incorporated tequila, transforming them into truly indulgent boozy popsicles, perfect for adult gatherings. But fear not if you prefer to abstain from alcohol; I’ve ensured to include a simple non-alcoholic recipe, allowing everyone to partake in this refreshing summer indulgence. This means you can easily whip up a batch for the entire family, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.

What Exactly Defines a Margarita, and Why Lemon for Our Popsicles?

At its heart, a classic margarita is an iconic cocktail featuring a delightful trio: spirited tequila, a sweet orange liqueur (like triple sec or Cointreau), and tangy lime juice. Traditionally, it’s served in its namesake margarita glass, often with a distinctive salted rim to enhance the flavors. This perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory has made it a global favorite.

While limes are the undisputed champion in traditional margaritas, as exemplified by my delicious frozen mango margarita recipe, for these particular popsicles, I decided to break from tradition and embrace the bright, sunny flavor of lemons. My personal preference leans heavily towards lemons – I find their zest and juice offer a vibrant, refreshing burst that truly elevates these frozen treats. The crisp, clean tang of lemon pairs exquisitely with the sweet watermelon, creating a unique and utterly satisfying experience.

There’s an undeniable burst of pure refreshment with every bite of these lemon-infused margarita pops. That bold, zesty lemon flavor cuts through the sweetness of the watermelon beautifully, creating a harmonious and invigorating taste sensation that’s perfect for hot weather.

For the alcoholic version, this recipe incorporates both tequila and triple sec, staying true to the margarita’s spirit. However, if you’re aiming for a fantastic non-alcoholic alternative, finding a suitable substitute is straightforward. For the tequila, a lemon-lime flavored soda or sparkling water provides that effervescent, citrusy base. And for the triple sec, simply use more of the lemon-lime soda or even a touch of orange extract (non-alcoholic) to mimic the orange liqueur’s profile without the alcohol content. This ensures everyone, regardless of their drinking preferences, can enjoy these delightful frozen treats.

Essential Tools: What Equipment Do You Need for Homemade Margarita Popsicles?

Creating your own batch of delicious watermelon margarita popsicles is surprisingly simple, and you likely already have most of the necessary tools in your kitchen. Here’s a quick rundown of the key equipment you’ll need to get started:

• A powerful Blender – This is arguably the most crucial piece of equipment. To achieve that silky-smooth texture and ensure easy pouring into your molds, you’ll need to transform the fresh watermelon chunks into a fine, seedless puree. A good blender will make this step quick and effortless, ensuring no lumps or fibrous bits remain in your margarita mix.
• Popsicle Molds – These are essential for shaping your individual frozen treats. While there’s a vast array of molds available, from classic designs to more whimsical shapes, any type of container that allows you to freeze individual pops will work perfectly. I personally highly recommend and own this sturdy Norpro Frozen Pop Maker (affiliate link) for its convenient size and classic shape, but feel free to use whatever mold you have on hand. For a budget-friendly and readily available option, even small paper Dixie cups with foil tops can double as makeshift molds!
• Popsicle Sticks – Don’t underestimate the importance of these! A popsicle isn’t truly a popsicle without a stick to hold onto. These sturdy wooden sticks are what make your frozen margaritas easy to handle and enjoy without making a mess. You can typically find them in the craft section of most grocery stores or even large retail chains. Alternatively, for convenience, you can easily purchase a pack of Norpro wooden sticks online (affiliate link) to have them delivered right to your door.

Mastering the Art: How To Pick The Perfect Watermelon for Your Popsicles

The success of your watermelon margarita popsicles hinges significantly on the quality of your main ingredient: the watermelon itself. But how do you navigate the often-daunting task of choosing the best, juiciest, and sweetest watermelon from the bunch?

If you only require a small amount of fruit, convenience stores and most grocery outlets offer pre-cut watermelon year-round. This can be a good option for quick, smaller batches.

However, for both flavor and cost-effectiveness, opting for a whole watermelon is almost always the superior choice, especially during peak season. I understand that for those who prefer small-batch recipes, a whole watermelon might seem excessive. But don’t worry! I have an abundance of delightful watermelon recipes to help you use up any leftovers, from refreshing watermelon Italian ice to invigorating watermelon slushies. You’ll never waste a single slice!

Here are the top three crucial factors to consider when selecting a watermelon that’s ripe, sweet, and bursting with flavor:

1. Symmetrical Shape and Flawless Skin: Look for a watermelon that has a uniform shape, whether it’s round or oval. Avoid any with obvious bruises, soft spots, deep cuts, or dents. These imperfections can indicate internal damage or an unripe fruit. A smooth, firm rind is a sign of freshness and quality.
2. Remarkably Heavy for Its Size: This is perhaps the most telling indicator of a juicy watermelon. Since watermelon is composed of approximately 92 percent water, a heavy fruit means it’s packed with hydrating, sweet liquid. Lift a few watermelons of similar size; the heaviest one is almost always the ripest and most flavorful.
3. A Distinctive Yellow Field Spot (Sunspot): Turn the watermelon over and inspect its underside. A creamy, buttery yellow or orange-yellow spot – known as the “field spot” or “sunspot” – is exactly what you want to see. This spot indicates where the watermelon rested on the ground and ripened in the sun. A white or light green spot suggests the melon was picked too early and won’t have developed its full sweetness.

Once you’ve successfully chosen your perfect watermelon, remember a critical step before you even think about slicing into it: always wash the exterior thoroughly under running water. This helps remove any dirt or bacteria that could transfer to the flesh when you cut it open, ensuring your popsicles are as clean and delicious as possible.

Simple Steps: How To Effortlessly Make Watermelon Margarita Popsicles

Now that you have your perfect watermelon and all your tools ready, it’s time for the fun part – assembling these delightful margarita pops! The process is surprisingly straightforward and yields incredibly rewarding results.

1. Blend Your Ingredients to Perfection: Begin by adding your fresh, cubed watermelon (make sure it’s ripe and sweet!), granulated sugar, bright lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, tequila (if making the alcoholic version), and triple sec (or its non-alcoholic substitute) into your blender. Secure the lid and blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and liquid, usually taking about 1-2 minutes. You want no chunky bits, just a uniform, vibrant puree.
2. Strain for Silky Smoothness: This step is crucial for achieving that desirable, professional-grade popsicle texture. Carefully pour your blended watermelon mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to press down on any solids, extracting as much liquid as possible. Discard any pulp, seeds, or fibrous bits left behind in the strainer. This ensures your popsicles will be wonderfully smooth, free of any unpleasant textures.
3. Fill Molds and Freeze: Once strained, gently pour the smooth watermelon margarita mixture into your chosen popsicle molds. Fill them almost to the top, leaving a small space for expansion as they freeze. Carefully insert your wooden popsicle sticks into the center of each mold. Now comes the waiting game! Place the filled molds into your freezer and allow them to set until completely firm. While they can be firm enough to eat after about 4 hours, for the best possible texture and to ensure they unmold easily and hold their shape, freezing them overnight is highly recommended. Patience here truly pays off!

The Salty Question: Should You Add Salt to Margarita Popsicles?

A classic margarita, whether it’s a traditional lime or a fruit-infused variation like a watermelon margarita, is often distinguished by its iconic salted rim. This touch of salt isn’t just for aesthetics; it plays a vital role in enhancing the drink’s flavors, balancing the sweetness and acidity, and adding a delightful savory contrast. However, translating this tradition to a frozen popsicle presents a unique challenge.

My initial attempts at simply dipping the frozen margarita popsicles into salt before serving resulted in a minor culinary mishap. As anyone who’s ever salted ice knows, salt significantly lowers the freezing point of water, causing ice to melt rapidly. When I tried this with the pops, they began to melt almost immediately upon contact with the salt. Oops! This quickly taught me that the traditional “salt rim” approach isn’t feasible for a solid frozen treat.

But don’t despair! You can still enjoy that wonderful sweet-and-salty kick that defines a great margarita. The secret lies in a simple technique: to incorporate the salt, dip your frozen margarita pop into a shallow dish of fine sea salt *just before* you take a bite. The salt will adhere momentarily, allowing you to experience that perfect flavor contrast as you savor the frosty treat. It’s a quick, effective way to get that authentic margarita experience without turning your delicious popsicle into a puddle.

Troubleshooting: How to Easily Unmold Your Homemade Margarita Popsicles

You’ve waited patiently, and your watermelon margarita popsicles are perfectly frozen and ready to enjoy. However, few things are more frustrating in the kitchen than eagerly anticipating a refreshing treat, only to find it stubbornly stuck in its mold! This common hurdle can easily be overcome with the right technique.

The key to successful unmolding is a gentle, controlled warming of the mold’s exterior. Here’s how to do it without damaging your delicious popsicles:

1. Prepare for Release: Take your frozen popsicle mold directly from the freezer.
2. Use Cool, Not Hot, Water: Hold the individual mold (or the entire tray, if applicable) under a stream of cool tap water for about 10-15 seconds. It’s crucial to use *cool* water, not hot. Hot water works faster, but it significantly increases the risk of melting the exterior of your popsicle, leading to a sticky mess or uneven thawing. Be very careful to prevent water from splashing into the top of the popsicle where the stick is inserted, as this can affect its integrity or cause unwanted icicles.
3. Gentle Extraction: After a short rinse, gently yet firmly pull the popsicle stick upwards. It should slide out with relative ease.
4. Repeat if Necessary: If the popsicle doesn’t budge on the first attempt, don’t force it! Simply run the mold under cool water for another 5-10 seconds and try again. Repeat this process until your popsicle releases smoothly. This patient approach ensures your frozen treats emerge perfectly intact and ready for enjoyment.

Storing Your Homemade Watermelon Margarita Popsicles for Long-Lasting Freshness

Once you’ve mastered the art of unmolding your delicious watermelon margarita popsicles, the next important step is proper storage. While it’s tempting to devour them all immediately, having a stash of these refreshing treats on hand for weeks or even months to come is a true summer luxury. Correct storage is key to preserving their flavor, texture, and preventing freezer burn.

Here’s the best way to keep your homemade popsicles fresh:

1. Individual Wrapping: As soon as each popsicle is unmolded, carefully wrap it individually in plastic wrap. This protective layer is vital. It prevents ice crystals from forming on the surface, which is the primary cause of freezer burn, and also stops the popsicles from absorbing any unwanted freezer odors.
2. Airtight Container or Bag: After wrapping, place the individually wrapped popsicles into a larger freezer-safe airtight bag or a rigid freezer-safe container. This second layer of protection further seals out air and helps maintain their quality. Stacking them neatly in a container also prevents them from getting squashed or damaged in a busy freezer.

With proper storage, your homemade watermelon margarita popsicles can remain deliciously fresh and perfectly edible in the freezer for an impressive duration – typically up to 6 months. This means you can enjoy the taste of summer long after the season has passed, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat for any occasion.

Explore More Margarita Creations!

Now that you’ve got a bottle of tequila gracing your pantry – perhaps after crafting these fantastic popsicles – you’re perfectly poised to explore a world of other exciting margarita-inspired recipes. Broaden your cocktail (and dessert!) horizons with these delectable options:

• Refreshing Margarita Sorbet
• Creamy Creamsicle Margaritas
• Delightful Mini Margarita Cheesecakes

Craving even more frozen delights beyond the margarita theme? Don’t miss out on these other vibrant and easy-to-make popsicle recipes: try my sweet strawberry popsicles or tropical pineapple popsicles for a different kind of frosty refreshment.

Watermelon Margarita Popsicles (Tequila and Non Alcoholic)

Yield:
8 popsicles

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Freeze Time:
4 hours

Total Time:
4 hours 20 minutes

Kick back and relax with these vibrant Watermelon Margarita Popsicles! This recipe offers both delicious tequila-infused and refreshing non-alcoholic versions, perfect for any summer occasion.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cubed watermelon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup (2 ounces) tequila (or substitute lemon lime soda for non alcoholic)
• 2 tablespoons (1 ounce) triple sec (or more lemon lime soda)
• Sea salt, for serving

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the cubed watermelon, granulated sugar, fresh lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, tequila (if using), and triple sec (or its non-alcoholic alternative). Blend thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth, approximately 1-2 minutes. Carefully pour this mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl, pressing out all the liquid and discarding any remaining solids or seeds.
2. Pour the strained watermelon mixture into your chosen popsicle molds or paper cups, then gently insert the wooden sticks into the center of each. Transfer to the freezer and allow to set until completely firm, which takes a minimum of 4 hours but ideally overnight for the best texture. Just before serving, dip the tip of each frozen popsicle into sea salt for that classic margarita kick.

   To store any leftover popsicles, individually wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Notes

• Have some extra watermelon on hand after making these delicious pops? Be sure to check out my other fantastic watermelon recipes to make the most of your fresh fruit!
• Eager for more delightful margarita-inspired recipes? Explore other favorites like my refreshing Mango Margaritas, creamy Creamsicle Margaritas, and classic Watermelon Margaritas.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• Popsicle Mold
• Popsicle Sticks
• Blender

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