Dessert of the Month: Artisan Popsicles

4/6/2018

Hold on- what are "artisan" popsicles, and how are they different from "regular" popsicles?

The Oxford dictionary defines the word artisan used as an adjective as, "(of food or drink) made in a traditional or non-mechanized way using high-quality ingredients." And this perfectly describes how an artisan popsicle is superior to a normal one.

Used with fresh, natural ingredients, artisan popsicles are packed with more flavor, yet have less sugar. Also, these desserts don't consist of mystery, most likely artificial fruits. Many of the stores that sell them claim that their fruits are natural, yet these popsicles do not solely consist of fruit. There is more variety in ingredients than normal popsicles, since some can be classified as spices or dessert-like.

Cielito, which translates from Spanish into "little heaven," is also the name of Miami, Florida's first artisan popsicle store, attempting to bring this dessert trend from where it became first popular, New York. I decided to check it out in order to better understand exactly what makes an artisan popsicle so unique, and my high expectations were surpassed.

These popsicles were very high-end (and expensive, but it was ultimately worth it), and there were many different options, including a version especially made for dogs! From strawberry kiwi with a whole kiwi slice embedded in it, dulce de leche with brownie inside, carrot ginger pineapple, banana with a dulce de leche filling, and pineapple dusted with pepper with jalapeños stuffed inside, the flavors are certainly deliciously unique. However, to insure the highest quality flavoring they change as ingredients become in or out of season.

After you choose your flavor, you have the option of adding a coat of dark or white chocolate to your artisan popsicle. Then, you are able to choose up to three toppings to top it with.

Whether you like a richer dessert or one that is more refreshing, the overwhelming variety of artisan popsicles is something for everyone to enjoy. Although more expensive, the high quality and cool satisfaction of this treat is something that is definitely worth a try. Without a doubt, most people who sample one of these trendy, high-end popsicles will become as hooked on their deliciousness and surprising healthiness* as I have become.