Vacation is over; time to get back to reality.  Summertime in our house is meant for refreshing ice creams, popsicles, and tasty desserts.  This recipe is a combination of two of my favorite things: homemade ice cream and fresh summer fruit. When I can find the freshest, sweetest peaches this recipe is addictive.  The natural sweetness of the peaches paired with the creamy ice cream makes this a “must make” item.  I hope you find some amazing summer fruit to make these creamy fruit popsicles.  You will really enjoy them!

1 batch of my homemade vanilla ice cream

3 medium peaches, well ripen, halved and pitted

1 lemon, juiced

1/4 c freshly squeezed orange juice

1/4 c sugar, or to taste (less ripen peaches may take a little bit more sugar)

1/4 tsp vanilla extract

If you have the time, make a batch of homemade vanilla ice cream the day before you plan to make these popsicles.  

To make the peach puree, place the peaches into a food processor and coarsely chop them.  Set aside about 1 c of the chopped peaches.  To the food processor add the lemon juice, orange juice, and sugar. Pulse until smooth.  Add this mixture to the peaches which were previously set aside.  Stir in the vanilla.

In a separate bowl, combine a 1-1/2 c of the vanilla ice cream with 1 c of the peach puree.  Mix together until the puree is evenly distributed. 

To  create the creamy peach pops, I like to place a small spoonful of the remaining peach puree in the top of each popsicle mold. Top with the peach ice cream.  Repeat the process until all the popsicle molds are filled.  Close the lids and place in the freezer to firm up overnight.  

When ready to unmold and eat the popsicles, run the molds briefly under warm water.  Gently remove the cover and enjoy!