May 22, 2013

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Ice Lolly Maker

 

An Ice Lolly Maker is a really fun and very useful kitchen utensil to own. Also called an Ice Pop Maker, this deceptively simple piece of equipment comes in various designs, compositions and price ranges to suit all budgets. What are the advantages of owning an Ice Lolly Maker and what must you consider before buying one?

 

Ice Lolly Maker Design Considerations

  • How easy is the unit to fill?
  • How easy is it to remove the frozen ice lollies from the mould?
  • Can the unit be cleaned easily? Is it dishwasher friendly or can it only be washed in lukewarm water?
  • How stable is the unit and can it be free standing in the freezer?

 

Ice  Lolly Maker – Various Examples Available in the UK

 

  • How many compartments does the unit have?
  • What is the material or composition of the ice lolly mould? Is it BPA and Phthalate free?
  • Does it come with drip trays?
  • How long does it take to freeze and is it a quick freeze design?  For example, Zoku is considered the world’s fastest ice pop maker and depending on the ingredients used, it only takes between 7-15 minutes to produce  ice lollies.

Advantages of Owning an Ice Lolly Maker

  • A huge range of ingredients can be used, including:
    • Fruit Juices such as pineapple, apple, orange, peach, mango, cranberry, pomegranate, blackcurrant, grape …
    • Fruit and fruit pieces including bananas, raspberries, blackcurrants, blackberries, currants, strawberries …
    • Yogurt, crushed nuts, chocolate chips, small foam sweets…
    • Fizzy drinks, milkshakes, smoothies, honey or nectar, molasses, maple syrup, milk, cider or booze for the adults. The sugar present in the juices, fruit, honey etc. actually helps the ice lolly release easily from the mould.  Natural sugar is fine and a 20-25% juice/75-80% water ratio is normally acceptable.
  • Create unique and colorful designer ice lollies – the only limit is your imagination! Put your own spin on proceedings by adding various pieces of fruit or create striped lollies or freeze various ingredients at different stages to create a multi-layered multi-flavored extravaganza …
  • You can control the sugar content, nutritional value, colorings or additives that are present.
  • Fantastic all year round and not only during the summer. They are also great for children’s parties.
  • Everyone in the family can always have their favorite flavor whenever they want.

 

Ice Pop Maker – Various Examples Available in the US

 

  • Fun to use and children love to get involved.
  • Convenience factor. They are quick and easy to use and you won’t  have to queue up for ages when the ice cream van comes or have to dash out to a packed supermarket.
  • Great taste. They are delicious, refreshing  and make a super fruity frozen treat at any time.
  • Generally very safe  for children to use.
  • Inexpensive compared to buying ice lollies from a shop or ice cream van.
  • Save money by not throwing away all those beverages and soft drinks that have gone flat.  Although fizzy beverages can be used with some moulds, in general, it is better to use those that have lost their fizz!
  • Ice lolly Makers are economical given that they do not require batteries or electricity and make use of your existing freezer.

Zoku Quick Pop Maker Review

 

The introduction of the Zoku Quick Pop Maker promised to ‘break the mould’ regarding homemade pops and ice lollies.

The possibility to enjoy custom made pops at a moment’s notice came backed with the bold marketing claim “to make ice pops in as little as seven minutes right on your countertop without electricity”.

Our Zoku Quick Pop Maker Review looks at whether the product is able deliver on its promises…

 

Zoku Quick Pop Maker Review

Zoku Quick Pop Maker Review

Zoku Quick Pop Maker Review

Ratings
Purchase Cost
 Running Cost
 Product Quality
 Ease of Use
 Speed
 Pop Consistency/Quality

Key Features
What can it do:
The ability to create custom frozen pops (including yoghurt ones) in around 7-10 minutes. The units non-stick cast aluminium compartments are treated with a special solution that results in the pops being frozen rapidly and evenly.

Why buy it?
A standalone unit that does not require electricity (it only needs to be put in your freezer) that produces customizable pops (ice lollies) very quickly. Also, the unit only needs cleaning infrequently and the reusable pop drip guards minimize the risk of sticky fingers and hands.

What are the dimensions:
You can create up to 9 pops of dimension 2.25″ x 3.5″ (5.7 cm x 8.9 cm). Alternatively, one can make 3 x 2oz (85g) pops each batch. The product weighs 6 lbs (2.7 Kg) and is 4.5″ x 4.2″ x 8″ (11.4 cm x 10.7 cm x 20.3 cm).  

What’s included:
The product comes with the quick pop freezing unit, quick release pop remover tool (‘Super Tool’), 6 x reusable pop sticks and 6 x reusable drip guards.

Advantages
  • Customized pops are very easy to make and it becomes addictive watching them freeze. For example, color variations can be made by pouring 1 color and leaving it for 30-60 seconds. Simply add the next color and just repeat the process. The possibilities are endless!

    Examples of liquids that can be used include lemonade, milk or chocolate milk, coconut cream, yogurt, mocha pops as well as orange, lime, blackcurrant or mixed juice (many people prefer 50% dilution).

    Adding puree or solids will take longer to freeze. Examples of solids that can be used include crushed or small pieces of bananas, cherry, strawberries, raspberries, mango, pineapple, peaches, blackberries, red or blackcurrants, oranges or mandarins…..
  • The small and narrow unit does not take up much space in the average sized freezer.
  • The unit does not have to be washed between each use – although it’s good hygiene to wash the reusable pop sticks.
  • Extra storage cases and reusable sticks are available.
  • Makes a great gift for Mother’s day, Father’s day, hostess gift, wedding present, moving in present, birthdays, Christmas …

Possible Issues
  • More expensive than many traditional alternatives. However, considering the cost of shop bought pops and frozen creamed (yogurt) products, the Zoku Quick Pop Maker can pay for itself relatively quickly.
  • Despite the unit being capable of producing up to 9 pops, it only comes supplied with 6 pop sticks and 6 drip guards (more can be purchased).
  • The pop size may be a little small for some people’s liking. However, this can be countered by considering them healthy treats.
  • There is no cover or lid for the unit which can result in other items in the freezer falling inside it.

In Use
YouTube Preview Image

 Tips and Advice
Pop removal is one of the biggest issues concerning all pop makers but this can be made much easier with the Zoku Quick Pop Maker by considering the following points:

  • Do not overfill the unit (not even by a little!) and avoid non-calorie/sugar free/artificial sweetened ingredients otherwise removing the pops (ice lollies) can be very difficult. However, reduced sugar pops can be made through experimentation, for example by adding in some Atkins low carb protein drink or Splenda.
  • Pushing pop sticks in too far will make them hard to remove.
  • There is a knack to removing the pops successfully. Do not try to pull or yank the pop straight out; always twist it out using the removal tool.
  • Easier pop removal can be achieved by making sure the drip guard is not initially attached and through screwing the removal tool (‘Super Tool’) in fully. Remember to twist and do not push down hard. Only attach the drip guard when you are sure the pop is free.
  • Letting the pops freeze for an additional few minutes may make them easier to remove.
  • Practice makes perfect regarding experimenting with the ingredients and pop consistency/ease of removal from the Zoku unit.

When using for the first time, make sure the unit is frozen for a full day beforehand. If you do not do this, you may end up frustrated with less than desirable results. After first time, the unit must be kept frozen at all times.

Using cold or chilled ingredients (rather than room temperature) makes the freezing process faster.

The Zoku Recipe Book is great for pop ideas.

Real World Usage Test
It is possible to get multiple batches from a fully frozen unit without the need to wash or refreeze the unit between each batch. The Zoku Quick Pop Maker unit we tested managed to produce up to 3 batches, although the last one took a comparatively long time and the pops were not frozen uniform.

  • 1st batch of 6 pops: 7-10 minutes
  • 2nd batch of 6 pops: 15-20 minutes
  • 3rd batch of 6 pops: 20-25 minutes

Putting the unit back into the freezer for the second and third batch appeared to help the process a little.

 Overall Verdict

A revelation when first used, then an addictive and useful addition to the home that is great for producing fun desserts anytime in under 10 minutes for the whole family.

 Zoku Quick Pop Maker Price Guide

Internet Price Range: US $49.99 - $74.95
 CURRENT CHEAPEST DEALS
 If you want to buy the Zoku Quick Pop Maker safely and with peace of mind, you can get it cheapest currently on Amazon through the following links:

US CUSTOMERS

CANADIAN CUSTOMERS

UK CUSTOMERS

 

Tovolo 80-8001 Rocket Pop Moulds Review

Ask a group of adults “What was your favorite ice pop when you were a child?” and the most popular reply is usually a resounding…. “a rocket pop!!”. Just the thought brings a broad smile to the face of most adults as they reflect back to those glorious, hot summer days of childhood!

The following Tovolo Rocket Pop Moulds Review looks to see whether this budget friendly product is fab or a flop…

 

Tovolo 80-8001 Rocket Pop Moulds Review

Tovolo 80-8001 Rocket Pop Moulds

Tovolo 80-8001 Rocket Pop Moulds

Ratings
Purchase Cost
Running Cost
Product Quality
 Ease of Use
 Speed
Pop Consistency/Quality

 
Key Features
What can it do:
Simple, yet cost-effective ice lolly/pop mould for making classic rocket-shaped fun iced dessert treats that can be enjoyed throughout the year by all the family.

Why buy it?
Good quality, well-designed product that doesn’t tip over easily in the freezer, allows ice lollies to be removed individually and comes with re-usable handles/drip guards to help prevent sticky hands and stained clothes. Save considerable money by making homemade ice lollies as compared to commercial alternatives.

What are the dimensions:
7.5″x 5″ x 7.5″ (19 x 12.7 x 19 cm) inches ; 14.4 ounces (408 g).

What’s included:
Custom base with a set of 6 rocket shaped moulds and built-in sticks and drip guards.

Advantages
  • Simple to use; requiring just a standard household freezer. Freezing time is 4+hrs depending on the ingredients used.
  • Durable, sturdy, BPA-free construction.
  • Dishwasher friendly.
  • Classic ice lolly design loved by generations of children. Great fun for children’s parties.
  • Makes 6 individual ice lollies that can be removed and re-filled one at a time.
  • Good-sized lollies for all the family.
  • Ideal for making custom ice lollies. You can use a variety of ingredients, juices, flavors and smoothie’s. Especially economical if using fruit that would otherwise go to waste or spoil.
  • Children love to be involved in the making process e.g. rainbow pops and the designs are limited only by one’s imagination.
  • You control the ingredients, meaning that the sugar levels, amount of colorings or additives can be regulated to your preference providing an healthier option. Very useful for anyone who sufferers from food allergies e.g. become hyperactive due to high levels or sugar or certain food colorings etc.
  • Environmentally friendly as each ice lolly/pop can be made without the need for any wrappers or packaging.

Possible Issues
  • If the ice lolly is knocked over before being frozen there can be some leakage from the snap-on tops of the moulds.
  • If you have a small freezing unit the height of the ice lollies may need to be considered. However, once frozen, they can be stored on their side.
  • Mixed results when used as an ice-cream mould.
  • Some people have reported that the lollies are on the large size for very small children.
  • Although the long stick helps keeps the ice lolly secure, it may make eating the last part of the lolly/popsicle a little tricky for some people and young children.
  • The drip guard’s effectiveness is determined by the eating angle. It functions adequately when upright but is not effective if you choose to eat the lolly at an angle.

Tips and Advice
  • Different amounts/concentrations/combinations of ingredient will affect the consistency and freezing nature of the final product. Non-calorie/sugar free/artificial sweetened ingredients can make removing the ice lollies much more difficult. If you are diabetic or concerned about sugar levels, some people have reported success using sugar alternatives, for example, by using Slendal. However, if you experience a problem removing the frozen ice lolly from the mould, simply run the outside of the mould under warm/hot water or sit the mould in a bowl of warm water for around 10 seconds.
  • Remember that freezing decreases the perceived sweetness of the ingredients. Therefore, one needs to experiment a little so as to be able to take into account the difference in sweetness between the unfrozen and frozen ingredients.
  • If you need to make a batch of ice lollies, consider buying a second kit or using traditional wooden popsicle sticks in the molds.
  • Various ingredients can be used, for example, pureed fruit, peach, mango, honey, jello, banana, orange, pineapple, yoghurt, cranberry juice, seedless watermelon, strawberries, melted ice cream and even alcoholic versions for the adults. In fact, it’s a great way to make children to eat fruit – even those who wouldn’t each chunks or pieces of fruit- and get their fiber, minerals and vitamins in a fun way. A simple method is to use a hand blender with some fresh or frozen fruit, a splash of fruit juice with a tablespoon of honey. Yummy!
  • The interesting shape of the mould could possibly lend itself to other hobbies, such as making homemade soap. However, if you intend to you them for ice lollies afterwards you must make sure never to use any toxic substance(s) and always wash the moulds thoroughly.
  • A cool ice lolly can provide soothing relief for a sore throat.

 Overall Verdict
 
A straightforward but effective ice lolly/popsicle mould that is manufactured well enough to give many years of fun, tasty iced treats.

 

Tovolo 80-8001 Rocket Mould Price Guide

List Price: $12.80  (£10.99)
Internet Price Range: US $11.5 -$23.5
 CURRENT CHEAPEST DEALS
If you want to buy the Tovolo 80-8001 Rocket Mould safely and with peace of mind, you can get it cheapest currently on Amazon through the following links:

US CUSTOMERS
UK CUSTOMERS

 

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