There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a creamy, chocolate-coated ice cream bar—especially when it’s homemade. The Eskimo Pie, a classic American treat featuring vanilla ice cream encased in a crisp chocolate shell, has been a favorite since the 1920s. But what if you could make a popsicle version right in your own kitchen?
In this guide, we’ll walk through a simple yet foolproof homemade Eskimo Pie popsicle recipe, along with tips for perfect texture, flavor variations, and storage tricks. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or just looking for a fun summer project, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why Make Homemade Eskimo Pie Popsicles?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about why homemade versions beat store-bought:
- No artificial additives – You control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and excessive sugar.
- Customizable flavors – Swap vanilla for chocolate, strawberry, or even dairy-free alternatives.
- Cost-effective – A batch of homemade popsicles costs far less than buying premium ice cream bars.
- Fun for kids & adults – Making them is a great family activity.
According to a 2023 survey by Statista, 68% of U.S. consumers prefer homemade frozen desserts for their freshness and ingredient transparency. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk as a substitute)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1½ cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (makes the shell crispier)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Leaving a small amount of room at the top for expansion, pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Put the sticks in and freeze for at least six hours, preferably overnight.
Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker for 15 minutes before freezing.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Shell
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together using a double boiler (or microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between).
- Let the melted chocolate cool slightly (but not harden).
Step 3: Dip & Decorate
- Remove popsicles from molds (run warm water over the outside if they’re stuck).
- Dip each popsicle into the chocolate quickly, letting any excess drip off.
- Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with the toppings, if using.
- Place on parchment paper and freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.
Flavor Variations & Expert Tips
1. Mint Chocolate Chip Version
- To the ice cream base, add ½ tsp peppermint essence.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips before freezing.
2. Cookies & Cream Twist
- Crush 4-5 Oreo cookies and fold into the mixture before freezing.
3. Vegan/Dairy-Free Option
- Use coconut cream and almond milk instead of dairy.
- Opt for vegan chocolate chips.
Chef’s Tip: For a smoother chocolate shell, temper the chocolate properly by heating it to 90°F (32°C) before dipping.

Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store for up to two weeks in an airtight jar.
- For the greatest texture, serve right away after dipping.
- For added richness, serve with caramel sauce or hot fudge drizzle.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade Eskimo Pie popsicles is easier than you might think, and the results are far superior to store-bought versions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, creamy, and chocolatey frozen treat that’s perfect for hot days or dessert cravings.
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Homemade Eskimo Pie Popsicle Recipe
Equipment
- Popsicle Molds
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Double Boiler
- Measuring Tools
Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk as a substitute)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1½ cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (makes the shell crispier)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Leaving a small amount of room at the top for expansion, pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Put the sticks in and freeze for at least six hours, preferably overnight.
- Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker for 15 minutes before freezing.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Shell
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together using a double boiler (or microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between).
- Let the melted chocolate cool slightly (but not harden).
Step 3: Dip & Decorate
- Remove popsicles from molds (run warm water over the outside if they’re stuck).
- Dip each popsicle into the chocolate quickly, letting any excess drip off.
- Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with the toppings, if using.
- Place on parchment paper and freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Homemade Eskimo Pie Popsicle Recipe
1. Can I use store-bought ice cream instead of making my own?
Yes! For a quicker version, soften high-quality vanilla ice cream, pour it into molds, and freeze. However, homemade ice cream allows for better texture control and customization.
2. Why is my chocolate coating too thick or cracking?
Too thick? Add a bit more coconut oil (1 tsp at a time) to thin the chocolate.
Cracking? Ensure the popsicles are very cold before dipping, and let the chocolate cool slightly (but not harden) before coating.
3. Can I make these without popsicle molds?
Absolutely! Use:
Small paper cups (cover with foil and insert sticks).
Ice cube trays for mini versions.
Silicone molds for easy removal.
6. What’s the best chocolate for coating?
Dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa) gives a rich, balanced sweetness.
Milk chocolate is sweeter but may need less coconut oil.
Vegan chocolate chips work well for dairy-free diets.