Ice pop, sweet or dessert from the United States: what it is and how it is eaten

An ice pop is a frozen dessert made by freezing flavored liquid, juice, or cream around a stick, forming a solid block of ice that is held by hand. Originating in the United States, it is enjoyed in many countries under different names and comes in a wide range of flavors, both homemade and commercial.

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First patented in the US in 1923 by Frank Epperson
Known as paleta in Mexico, ice lolly in the UK, icy pole in Australia
Made by freezing flavored liquid or juice around a stick
Paletas in Mexico often use fresh fruit and local flavors
Homemade versions can use juice, milk, or even alcoholic drinks

What is Ice pop?

An ice pop is a frozen sweet treat made by freezing flavored liquid, juice, or sometimes a creamy mixture around a stick, which acts as a handle. The result is a solid block of ice with a distinct icy texture, unlike the smoothness of ice cream. Flavors range from simple fruit juices to more complex blends, and the color and taste depend on the ingredients used. Some versions are water-based, while others include milk or cream for a richer taste.

Where does Ice pop come from?

The idea of a frozen treat on a stick dates back to at least 1872, but the modern ice pop was popularized by Frank Epperson in California. Epperson claimed to have accidentally invented it as a child in 1905, when he left a glass of lemonade with a stick outside on a cold night. He patented the concept in 1923 and introduced it to the public as a 'frozen lollipop.' The treat quickly spread, gaining different names and local variations in many countries.

How is Ice pop made?

To make an ice pop, a flavored liquid—such as juice, sweetened water, or a milk-based mixture—is poured into a mold with a stick placed in the center. The mold is then frozen until the mixture solidifies around the stick. Commercial versions may include added sugars, corn syrup, or artificial flavors, while homemade ones can use fresh fruit juice or other beverages. Some ice pops are made with cream or milk for a softer texture.

Paletería (ice lolly seller) on Broadway in Denver , Colorado during the official 420 Rally in Civic Center Park in 2014. Photo: O'Dea, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

How and when is Ice pop eaten?

Ice pops are usually eaten as a snack, especially in warm weather. They are held by the stick and eaten directly, making them easy to enjoy outdoors or on the go. In many places, ice pops are sold by street vendors or from pushcarts, and at home, people often make them using molds or even ice cube trays. They are popular with children and adults alike, and are often chosen for their cooling effect and sweet taste.

Kinds of Ice pop

There are many regional names and styles for ice pops. In Mexico, paletas are made with fresh fruit and sometimes local flavors like tamarind or chili pepper. In India, ice gola and ice candy are common, while the UK has ice lollies, and Australia has icy poles. Some homemade versions include alcoholic drinks, and new innovations have led to slower-melting varieties using fruit fibers. The base can be water or milk, and flavors are adapted to local tastes.

What Ice pop means

Ice pops have become a part of everyday life in many countries, often associated with childhood and summer. In Mexico, paletas are linked to the town of Tocumbo and have become a symbol of local enterprise. The treat has inspired world record attempts, such as the giant ice pop in New York City. Brand names like Popsicle have become generic terms in some regions, showing the deep cultural presence of this simple frozen snack.

Questions people ask about Ice pop

What is an ice pop made of?

An ice pop is made by freezing a flavored liquid, such as juice, sweetened water, or a milk-based mixture, around a stick. Commercial versions often include added sugars and artificial ingredients, while homemade ones can use fresh juice or other beverages.

Where did ice pops originate?

Ice pops were popularized in the United States, especially in California, by Frank Epperson, who patented the concept in 1923. The idea has since spread worldwide, taking on local names and styles.

What are some other names for ice pops?

Ice pops are called popsicles in the US and Canada, paletas in Mexico, ice lollies in the UK, icy poles in Australia, ice gola or ice candy in India, and ice drop in the Philippines.

Are ice pops always made with fruit juice?

No, ice pops can be made with fruit juice, sweetened water, milk, or cream. Some versions use fresh fruit, while others use artificial flavors or even alcoholic drinks in homemade varieties.

How are ice pops different from ice cream?

Ice pops are frozen while at rest, resulting in a solid, icy texture, while ice cream is whipped during freezing to create a smoother, creamier consistency. Ice pops are usually water- or juice-based, but some include milk or cream.

Good reading and sources

Where this page comes from

The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Ice pop", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Thali rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.

It may contain mistakes, and it is not dietary or allergy advice: recipes differ from cook to cook. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-03.

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