Mojito-Watermelon Pops

By Maverick19

These are boozy ice pops that layer a minty mojito with vodka-spiked watermelon juice

Ingredients

• Mojito Layer:
• 5 oz Simple Syrup (SEE BELOW IN DIRECTIONS)
• 4 oz water
• 2 1/4 oz light run
• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 3 Tbsp packed mint leaves
• 1/4 oz lime cordial
• 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (Bob's Red Mill sells this, amazon sells, or higher end/specialty mkts)
• Watermelon Layer:
• 10 oz watermelon juice
• 2 oz light agave nectar
• 1 1/2 oz citron vodka
• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/4 oz lime cordial
• pinch of kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp xanthan gum

Preparation

Step 1

1. Make the mojito layer: In a blender, puree all of the ingredients except the xanthan gum on high speed until smooth and bright green, about 30 seconds. Pour into a bowl. Slowly sprinkle the xanthan gum over while quickly whisking, until slightly thickened and foamy. Let rest for 15 minutes, then skim any foam. Pour 1 1/2 Tbsp of the mojito layer into eight 3oz popsicle molds or paper cups. Freeze until almost firm. 1 hour. Poke a popsicle stick into the center of each.
2. Make the Watermelon layer: In another bowl, combine all of the ingredients except the xanthan gum. Slowly sprinkle the xanthan gum over while quickly whisking, until slightly thickened. Let rest, then skim.
3. Carefully add 1 1/2 Tbsp of the watermelon layer to the mojito layer in the molds. Freeze until almost firm, 1 hour. Pour the remaining mojito mixture on top and freeze until firm, 2 hours. Unmold and serve.

SIMPLE SYRUP:
In a saucepan, simmer 4 oz of water with 1/2 cup of sugar over moderate heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes, let cool. Refrigerate for up to 1 month. Makes about 6 oz.