🎉 Quick Apple Sauce Pops (Kids’ DIY) – No-Oven, Playful Dessert for Thanksgiving
Transform homemade apple sauce into kid-friendly pops for a festive, hands-on Thanksgiving activity—no oven needed!
These Apple Sauce Pops are a delightful way to involve kids in the kitchen. With just four ingredients and a silicone mold, you’ll have a playful dessert ready in 15 minutes. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering, this recipe turns simple apple sauce into a colorful, interactive treat that kids can decorate themselves.
Looking for a fun, kid-friendly dessert that doubles as a cooking activity? These Apple Sauce Pops are the answer. They’re easy to make, customizable, and freeze perfectly—ideal for busy holidays. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in some fruit and spices while letting kids get creative with toppings choices.
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving potluck or need a quick snack for after-school fun, these pops are a hit. The best part? No baking required, so you can focus on other holiday prep while the kids enjoy making their own mini desserts.
This recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftover apples or store-bought apple sauce. With variations for dietary needs and endless topping options, it’s a versatile recipe that will become a family favorite.
Ready to turn simple apple sauce into a festive treat? Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly made apple sauce (or 1 (24 oz) store-bought apple sauce, unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 popsicle sticks
- 8 silicone popsicle molds
- Optional toppings: raisins, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, cinnamon sprinkles
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Apple Sauce Mixture
- Step 2: Add Flavor and Toppings
- Step 3: Freeze and Serve
Recipe Card
Apple Sauce Pops
A fun, no-bake dessert for kids to make and eat!
🛒 Ingredients
- - 2 cups apple sauce
- - 1/4 cup sugar (optional)
- - 1 tsp cinnamon
- - 1/2 tsp vanilla
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Mixture: In a bowl, combine apple sauce, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
💡 Use a whisk or spatula for a smooth texture.
Fill Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds. Let kids add toppings like raisins or sprinkles.
💡 Press popsicle sticks into the center before freezing.
Freeze: Freeze for 4–5 hours or until solid. Pop out and enjoy!
💡 Run molds under warm water for easy removal.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Apple Sauce
Use freshly made or store-bought unsweetened apple sauce. For a spiced version, add nutmeg or cloves.
Substitutions: Unsweetened applesauce, mashed bananas (for a different flavor), or pumpkin puree.
Cinnamon
Adds warmth and depth. Skip for a plain version, or use pumpkin spice for variety.
Substitutions: Nutmeg, allspice, or a pinch of ginger.
Vanilla Extract
Enhances the flavor. Use almond extract for a nutty twist.
Substitutions: Vanilla bean paste, or omit if unavailable.
Toppings
Let kids get creative! Options include chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed graham crackers.
Substitutions: Gluten-free toppings for dietary needs, or freeze plain pops for a simpler version.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Sauce Pops
🎨 Get Creative with Toppings
Let kids choose their own toppings—this makes the activity more engaging and ensures everyone has a unique pop.
❄️ Freeze in Advance
Make a batch ahead and store in the freezer. They’re perfect for grab-and-go snacks or holiday parties.
♻️ Use Reusable Molds
Invest in silicone molds—they’re easy to clean and can be used for other frozen treats like yogurt bars or smoothie pops.
👨👩👧👦 Make It a Family Activity
Let younger kids decorate the pops while older ones handle mixing and pouring. It’s a fun way to bond and share the kitchen!
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Apple Cider Pops
Add 1/4 cup apple cider or a splash of cinnamon-spiced coffee for a festive twist.
Chocolate-Dipped Pops
Dip the frozen pops in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles for an extra treat.
Mini Pops for Little Hands
Use smaller molds for toddler-friendly sizes. Add a cherry or blueberry on top for a colorful garnish.
Vegan Version
Use maple syrup instead of sugar and vegan toppings like sunflower seed butter or carobees.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Warm apple pie slices for a classic Thanksgiving combo
- A side of graham crackers or pretzels for dipping
- A cup of spiced apple cider or hot cocoa
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Serve with a chilled glass of apple cider or a non-alcoholic spiced chai for a cozy autumn feel.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the apple sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Freeze in molds when ready to serve.
Refrigerator Storage
Unfrozen pops can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep molds covered to prevent drying.
Freezer Storage
Frozen pops will keep for up to 3 months. Store in a ziplock bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
No reheating needed—these are best enjoyed frozen. Simply thaw slightly at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My pops are too runny. What should I do?
A: Ensure you freeze for at least 4 hours. For a thicker texture, add 1/2 tsp cornstarch to the mixture before freezing.
Q: How do I get the pops out of the molds easily?
A: Run the molds under warm water for 10 seconds to loosen the pops. Gently twist the mold to release.
Q: Can I use a different type of mold?
A: Yes! Use ice cube trays with popsicle sticks inserted or silicone molds designed for frozen treats.
Q: My kids don’t like cinnamon. Can I skip it?
A: Absolutely. The cinnamon adds flavor but isn’t essential. You can substitute with nutmeg or omit entirely.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Sauce Pops are more than just a dessert—they’re a fun, interactive activity that the whole family will enjoy. From mixing the ingredients to decorating each pop, every step is a chance to bond and create something delicious together.
Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just looking for a quick, healthy treat, this recipe is a winner. With endless customization options, it’s sure to become a holiday tradition. Give it a try and see how much your kids love making their own mini desserts!
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Marcus Hale
Nov 17, 2025
Made Quick Apple Sauce Pops. They turned out surprisingly fun. Tried the blend and the apple sauce was sweet, the popsicle sticks gleamed deep amber. I added lemon juice to brighten flavor for my kids after dinner. Four stars because this dessert fits Thanksgiving tables, though the pops could use a sturdier stick for younger hands, flavor stayed fresh through the weekend.
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