Tropical Mango Paletas
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with these Tropical Mango Paletas! These refreshing Mexican popsicles are crafted from ripe, juicy mangoes combined with a touch of sweetness and a splash of water. Perfect for hot days, they offer a guilt-free treat that’s packed with natural fruit goodness and no artificial ingredients. Enjoy them as a healthy dessert, a snack for kids, or a cooling delight at your next backyard party. Each bite delivers a burst of tropical flavor, making these paletas a sunny addition to your recipe collection.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Drinking water
1 cup (bring to a boil and then simmer)
Ice cubes
1 1/2 cups (use to cool down the mixture)
Fresh mango, chopped
1 cup (peeled and diced into small pieces)
Sugar
1/4 cup (add to water and dissolve)
Instructions
1
In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of drinking water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
2
Add 1/4 cup of sugar to the simmering water, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
3
Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the sugar water into a large measuring cup. Add enough ice cubes to bring the total liquid to 2 cups, stirring until the ice melts and the mixture cools.
4
Prepare your popsicle molds by adding approximately 2 tablespoons of chopped mango into each one.
5
Carefully pour the cooled sugar-water mixture into the molds, filling them to the top.
6
Using a long spoon or popsicle stick, gently stir the mango pieces into the liquid to evenly distribute them.
7
Place the lids on the molds and insert the sticks. Freeze the popsicles for at least one hour or until they are completely solid.
8
When ready to serve, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds to help release the paletas.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Mango Paletas?
They are traditional Mexican-style popsicles made with fresh mango, water, and sugar.
How do I prepare the sugar water for the paletas?
Boil 1 cup of water, dissolve 1/4 cup sugar in it, then add ice to reach a total of 2 cups of liquid.
Can I use frozen mango for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mango; just thaw it slightly before chopping into small pieces.
What can I use if I do not have popsicle molds?
Small paper cups or ice cube trays with wooden sticks or toothpicks can serve as an alternative.
How long do these paletas need to freeze?
They should be frozen for at least one hour or until they are completely solid.
Are these mango paletas vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains only fruit, water, and sugar.
Can I substitute the sugar with honey?
Yes, honey or agave nectar can be used as a sweetener substitute for the granulated sugar.
How do I remove the paletas from the molds?
Run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds to help release the popsicles.
Is the mango-to-water ratio flexible?
Yes, you can add more chopped mango if you prefer a higher fruit-to-liquid ratio.
Can I add other fruit to the recipe?
Absolutely, other tropical fruits like pineapple or kiwi would pair perfectly with the mango.
How many mangoes do I need for 1 cup of chopped fruit?
Usually, one large ripe mango will provide approximately 1 cup of diced fruit.
Are these paletas gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are 100% gluten-free.
Can I use coconut water instead of plain water?
Yes, coconut water is an excellent substitution that adds even more tropical flavor.
How long can I store them in the freezer?
They are best when eaten within 2 weeks but can stay good for up to 3 months if well-covered.
Why does the recipe call for ice cubes in the syrup?
The ice cubes quickly cool down the boiled sugar water so you can fill the molds immediately.
Can I add chili powder like Tajin?
Yes, adding a sprinkle of Tajin or chili powder is a popular and delicious Mexican variation.
Are these paletas a healthy snack for kids?
Yes, they are a hydrating, fruit-based treat with no artificial colors or flavors.
How many paletas does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes roughly 4 to 6 paletas depending on the size of your molds.
Can I blend the mango instead of chopping it?
Yes, you can blend the mango with the syrup if you prefer a smooth texture instead of chunks.
What type of mango works best?
Ataulfo or Honey mangoes are ideal because they are sweet and have very little fiber.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, though it will change the color of the paletas and add a slight caramel flavor.
Do I need to peel the mango first?
Yes, ensure you peel the skin and remove the pit before chopping the mango for the molds.
Can I make these paletas creamy?
You can substitute the water with whole milk or coconut milk to create a creamy version.
How do I avoid large ice crystals?
The dissolved sugar acts as an antifreeze, and smaller fruit pieces help keep the texture better.
Can I add lime juice to the mixture?
Yes, a splash of lime juice will brighten the flavors and balance the sweetness of the mango.
Are these paletas low in calories?
Yes, they are generally low in calories as they are primarily water and fresh fruit.
Can I use a sugar substitute like Stevia?
Yes, artificial sweeteners or natural substitutes like monk fruit can be used to lower sugar content.
Can I add yogurt to the molds?
Yes, swirling in some Greek yogurt before freezing adds a nice tangy flavor and protein.
What is the difference between a popsicle and a paleta?
Paletas are traditionally Mexican and prioritize using fresh, whole fruit ingredients.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch for parties.