Pudding pops bring memories

August 7, 2012

By GRACE STRAHAN

Somewhere between long days of kickball and running behind the mosquito truck, my sister and I would enjoy homemade pudding pops. We would sit on our front step or under the cool of our parent’s carport with our popsicles in the plastic Tupperware molds. Our faces would be smeared with chocolate until we washed off under the water hose.

I don’t know that I even knew a store bought option existed until I was much older. My mother made everything at home. Just tonight on the phone, my mother said, “I don’t think I’ve ever bought anything like that at the store. I’ve always made my own.” And, yes, she means it. But, homemade doesn’t mean slaving over a double boiler with a thermometer waiting on the perfect temperature.

There are certainly much fancier options than the homemade frozen treats of our childhood. This past year, I bought myself a contraption that makes a popsicle on my counter in 10 minutes. I make them with a mixture of premade fruit syrup and water. These will do on a hot summer day, but I’m still fond of the clear Tupperware handles that my sister and I would grab out of the freezer daily as kids. In true little sister fashion, my sister has those very molds I’m writing about now. I wonder if she even uses them.

My advice is to get your own popsicle molds and make up a batch of pudding pops. You might even be inspired to play some kickball with your kids. I do, however, recommend skipping out on running behind the mosquito truck as it sputters through the neighborhood!

The recipe below is a simple mixture that does contain raw eggs. So, I suppose I’m required to add the disclosure that you might want to avoid this if you are “in the family way.” But, otherwise, in this current heat wave, your kids will scarf these down in no time. And, I’m pretty sure adults will find these just as fun. This is probably one time I’m going to take my own advice.

Homemade Pudding Pops

1 small package of instant pudding mix, you can choose the flavor (I like chocolate.)
3 eggs
5 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp vanilla
1 quart milk

Mix all ingredients except the milk first. Then, add the milk and mix thoroughly. A blender works well. Freeze in popsicle molds. Makes 20 – 24, depending on the size of the mold.