Berry Kefir Popsicles

Beat the summer heat with homemade kefir berry popsicles that are as delicious as they are nutritious. Made with just a handful of ingredients, these popsicles are a breeze to whip up and offer a refreshing burst of flavor.

Berry blend packs in nutrients

Packed with an assortment of vibrant berries, they’re a powerhouse of antioxidants, helping to combat free radicals and support overall health.

I like to use this frozen triple berry blend found at Costco (I know other stores carry this variety of berries, too!)

Blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with health benefits:

1. Antioxidants: These berries are rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, anthocyanins, and vitamin C, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, thus reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
2. Fiber: Berries are high in fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Fiber also contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
3. Vitamins and minerals: Berries are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and potassium, which are important for overall health and well-being.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties: The compounds found in berries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of inflammatory conditions like arthritis and autoimmune diseases.
5. Brain health: Studies suggest that the antioxidants in berries may help improve brain function and delay age-related cognitive decline. Consuming berries regularly may support memory, focus, and overall brain health.

What is Kefir?

What sets these popsicles apart is the addition of kefir, which not only lends a creamy texture but also provides a hefty dose of probiotics, promoting gut health and digestion.

Kefir offers a range of health benefits:

1. Probiotics: Kefir is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health by balancing the microbiome. These probiotics can help improve digestion, boost immune function, and reduce the risk

Kefir’s inherent tanginess makes it a unique and refreshing beverage on its own, but I enjoy experimenting with different flavors to add a hint of sweetness.

Is added sugar a concern?

I had a follower send a DM asking if I was concerned about the added sugar in kefir, and honestly, I am not because of two important things.

1. Personally, I think the benefits of kefir outweigh the concern of added sugar. Kefir is packed with 10 grams of protein, so for me having a glass of kefir after a meal, it satisfies my sweet tooth and fills me up.
2. In my diet, I do not consume much additional added sugar on a regular basis, so a little extra sugar in kefir is no biggie! Everything in moderation, right?

There are many flavors of kefir such as strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, mixed berry, or any other flavor variation, each adds its own delicious twist to kefir’s probiotic-rich goodness.

Feel free to add your favorite flavor to this recipe. I have used mixed berry kefir and blueberry kefir, and you can’t go wrong with either flavor.

Kefir vs Yogurt

I often tell my clients that kefir tastes like a drinkable yogurt, but with even more beneficial bacteria. Unlike yogurt, which typically contains 2 or 3 strains of live active cultures, kefir boasts a broader spectrum, with about 10 to 12 live cultures. This diversity of probiotics contributes to its reputation as a gut-friendly powerhouse, offering a range of potential health benefits with every sip.

These popsicles are so easy to make and perfect to enjoy on a hot day!

Popsicle mold

There are so many molds out there and I am sure many will do just fine, but here is the mold that I have used for this recipe.

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Final thoughts

Kefir popsicles are a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of probiotics while cooling off with a refreshing treat. They’re packed with gut-friendly nutrients, naturally sweetened with fruit, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a healthy, homemade snack that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether as a midday refresher or a little dessert, these popsicles make it easy to treat yourself while supporting your health!