master-cooks | 3 Clever Tips To Keep Your Popsicles Frozen In A Cooler

When you're heading out for a picnic or a day at the beach, keeping your popsicles frozen in a cooler can be a bit tricky, but a few clever strategies can help. Start by pre-chilling your cooler with ice or frozen gel packs for a few hours before loading it with your treats. This process helps create a cold environment from the get-go, reducing the risk of early melting. Next, pack your popsicles tightly in the center of the cooler, surrounded by other frozen items or ice packs. The compact arrangement minimizes air circulation, which can lead to faster melting. It's also a good idea to use a combination of ice and frozen gel packs, as gel packs tend to stay colder longer and can be more efficient in maintaining low temperatures. Finally, keep your cooler in the shade and limit how often you open it. Each time the lid is opened, warm air enters, raising the internal temperature and accelerating the melting process. By minimizing exposure to ambient heat, you help ensure your popsicles stay frozen for as long as possible. These simple yet effective methods can make all the difference in preserving your sweet treats on hot days.

Bury your popsicles in ice, or try using a thermos

Storing your popsicles in an ice-filled cooler may seem straightforward, but there are a few tips to enhance this method. Since cold air sinks, the bottom of the cooler is the coldest area. Start by creating a base layer of ice at the bottom to place your popsicles on. Lay them flat on the ice without overlapping, then add more ice until they are fully covered. Keeping the cooler out of direct sunlight will help ensure your popsicles remain frozen until dessert time.

Another effective way to keep your popsicles frozen is by using a thermos for added insulation. To implement this handy trick, simply place your popsicles inside the thermos, fill it with as much ice as it can hold, and secure the cap. Then, toss the thermos into the ice-filled cooler with your other food items, and you’re all set. (It’s important to note that freezer pops, due to their long and slender shape, tend to work best with this method.)

Pre-cool your cooler

Here’s a handy tip: Just like the thermos method mentioned earlier, you can use the tumbler from an ice cream maker to keep your popsicles frozen in a pinch. Many ice cream makers come with a removable double-walled insulated tumbler designed specifically for freezing ice cream, making it ideal for maintaining the perfect temperature for popsicles. Just place the popsicles in the tumbler with some ice and put it in your cooler.

Since all these suggestions involve using a cooler, let’s look at a way to ensure it stays as cold as possible. This trick requires a bit of planning but not much effort. The night before your picnic, set your cooler in a room-temperature area of your home and fill it with ice. The next day, drain any melted water and add more ice. This will help the cooler maintain its cold temperature longer, keeping your popsicles frozen until you’re ready to enjoy them. Now, get outside and savor some nature — along with a delicious frozen treat!

3 Clever Tips To Keep Your Popsicles Frozen In A Cooler

Bury your popsicles in ice, or try using a thermos

Pre-cool your cooler

Recommended

Next up