Homemade Fudgesicles

by Haley // June 14, 2023

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Cool off this summer with a nostalgic treat: homemade fudgesicles. These popular chocolate popsicles are easy to make from scratch. You will love how fudgy and creamy they are!

fudgesicles on a baking sheet with ice cubes.

One of the desserts we always had in the freezer were fudgesicles. I think my mom loved them just as much, if not more, than us kids. I don’t blame her because what’s not to love? These classic chocolate popsicles are rich, creamy and fudgy. You won’t believe how easy they are to make from scratch!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super fudgy and chocolate-y. The texture is very creamy while the chocolate flavor is simply irresistible!
Easy to make. All you need are some basic ingredients plus a saucepan and popsicle mold!
No “from a box” ingredients. These fudgesicles are made without pudding mix, but rather a homemade chocolate pudding mixture.
Dose of nostalgia. Enjoying one of these fudge pops (and perhaps a Chipwich too) will have you reminiscing about the Good Humor ice cream truck and summer nights as a kid!

Ingredient Notes

bowls of ingredients to make homemade fudgesicles.

Chocolate: Use semisweet or dark chocolate for a rich, yet sweet, taste. The better quality chocolate you use, the better the flavor! I prefer Ghirardelli.
Butter: A tablespoon of butter helps the chocolate melt without seizing up or burning.
Milk: Use whole milk for an ultra creamy texture and rich taste.
Sugar: A bit of sugar adds some sweetness (after all, this is dessert!)
Cocoa powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder. Again, a good quality cocoa makes all the difference in taste (I prefer Ghirardelli).
Cornstarch: This essential ingredient helps thicken the filling and binds the ingredients.
Vanilla extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Salt: To bring out the flavors and counteract the sweetness, add 1/4 teaspoon salt to the mixture.

Recipe Variations

Make mint chocolate fudgesicles. This is super easy. Just replace the vanilla with 1/2 teaspoon mint extract (or peppermint)!

Add some coconut. Substitute the regular milk with full-fat coconut milk from a can and add 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract instead of vanilla. You can also mix in shredded coconut, but keep in mind it will affect the texture of the popsicles.

Make them for adults only. Replace 1/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup kahlua or Irish cream. You can also add espresso for a mocha effect.

Dip the fudgsicles in melted chocolate and add some chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds. You can also sprinkle on some chopped candy. Reese’s, m&m’s or toffee would taste delicious!

Make it dairy free! You can use coconut milk, oat milk or almond milk in this recipe. Be sure it is full fat and the carton is shaken well before using. The popsicles may not be as creamy, but nevertheless delicious.

How to Make Homemade Fudgesicles

Melt the chocolate and butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently so chocolate doesn’t burn.
Whisk in remaining ingredients: Milk, cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla and salt.
Cook over medium heat until mixture has thickened, about 15 minutes.
Pour mixture into popsicle mold and freeze for at least 4 hours. To release, run the popsicle mold under warm water for 10 to 20 seconds before pulling the popsicle stick up.

Expert Tips

Use good quality ingredients. The chocolate and cocoa powder make all the difference in flavor (I prefer Ghirardelli), while whole milk guarantees a rich and creamy texture.

Make sure the mixture thickens before taking the pan off the heat. This is super important for the fudgy, creamy texture.

The easiest way to fill a popsicle mold is to use a pitcher or a liquid measuring cup with a spout. This makes it easier to aim and the mixture is less likely to drip. Also, leave a little room at the top, about 1/2-inch. The mixture will slightly expand as it freezes.

To release fudgesicles from the popsicle mold, run the mold under very warm water for 10 to 20 seconds (be careful not to let water on the top). With one hand, hold a single popsicle mold and gently squeeze to loosen the fudgesicle. Pull the popsicle stick with the other hand. Do not force it otherwise it may break. If necessary, run the popsicle mold under warm water for another 5 to 10 seconds.

fudgesicle with a bite taken sitting on top of more popsicles.

Storage Tips

Freeze homemade fudgesicles for up to 2 months. For best results, remove the popsicles from the mold after 48 hours. Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking. For best results, individually wrap the popsicles in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.

Recipe FAQ

Are fudgesicles chocolate ice cream?

Not quite. While they do have similar ingredients (sugar, milk, cocoa, etc.), ice cream typically also includes heavy cream and pasteurized eggs.

How do you keep popsicles from becoming icy?

Use full-fat ingredients and add cornstarch to guarantee a creamy texture. It also helps to store the popsicles in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Can I make fudgesicles without a popsicle mold?

Yes, paper dixie cups are a popular substitute. You can also use a muffin tin or popover pan as an alternative.