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Nothing says summer like the refreshing taste of an authentic Mexican paleta.
These frozen treats, bursting with vibrant flavors, are a staple in Mexican culture and have gained fans worldwide.
From creamy and indulgent options to fruity and refreshing ones, paletas are a delightful way to cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth.
The best part?
They’re incredibly versatile and easy to make at home.
Whether you’re craving classic flavors like mango with chili or adventurous combinations like avocado and lime, this guide will inspire you to bring a piece of Mexico to your kitchen.
29+ Tasty Authentic Mexican Paleta Recipes to Brighten Your Summer
Making your own Mexican paletas is not only fun but also a rewarding way to explore authentic flavors.
ith endless possibilities for customization, you can create a variety of paletas that suit every occasion and craving.
By following these traditional recipes and tips, you’ll have a freezer stocked with vibrant, delicious treats that transport you to the sunny streets of Mexico.
Gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and let the joy of paleta-making begin!
Paletas de Limón con Coco (Lime and Coconut Popsicles)
Paletas de Limón con Coco are a refreshing treat that blends the tartness of lime with the creamy richness of coconut. This recipe is inspired by the vibrant flavors of coastal Mexico, where citrus fruits and coconuts abound. These paletas are naturally dairy-free, making them light, tangy, and perfect for cooling down on a warm day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 2 tablespoons lime zest
- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup (or sweetener of choice for low-carb options)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
- Insert sticks and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until completely solid.
- To release the paletas, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds.
These Lime and Coconut Paletas are a delightful way to savor the essence of tropical Mexico. Their creamy texture and zesty lime flavor make them an instant favorite for both kids and adults alike. Pair them with a sunny afternoon, and you’ll feel like you’re lounging on a Mexican beach.
Paletas de Mango con Chile (Mango and Chile Popsicles)
ango and Chile Paletas are a bold combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy. This classic Mexican treat is a celebration of mangoes—Mexico’s beloved tropical fruit—enhanced with the heat of chili powder and a hint of lime. Perfect for adventurous paleta lovers!
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar-free sweetener (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Blend the mangoes, lime juice, sweetener, and water in a blender until smooth.
- Add the chili powder and salt to the mixture, blending briefly to combine. Adjust spice levels as desired.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Freeze for 4–6 hours or until solid.
- To serve, sprinkle additional chili powder on the paletas for an extra kick.
Paletas de Mango con Chile bring the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making them an exciting addition to your dessert repertoire. With their vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors, they transport you straight to a bustling Mexican mercado.
Paletas de Fresa con Crema (Strawberries and Cream Popsicles)
Paletas de Fresa con Crema are a beloved Mexican classic, offering the richness of cream with the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries. This creamy, dreamy treat is indulgent yet simple, making it a staple of Mexican street vendors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar or erythritol (for low-carb)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Blend the strawberries, cream, sweetener, and vanilla extract in a blender until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, filling them about three-quarters full.
- For a marbled effect, swirl in a few spoonfuls of pureed strawberries before freezing.
Paletas de Fresa con Crema are the perfect fusion of fruity and creamy goodness. This recipe captures the essence of Mexican comfort desserts in every bite. Enjoy these paletas on a summer day for a taste of nostalgia and tradition.
aletas de Tamarindo (Tamarind Popsicles)
Paletas de Tamarindo are a tangy and sweet treat, highlighting the unique flavor of tamarind, a beloved ingredient in Mexican cuisine. The natural sourness of tamarind, combined with just the right amount of sweetness, makes these popsicles irresistibly refreshing. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold, exotic flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup tamarind paste
- 3 cups water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or erythritol (for low-carb)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the tamarind paste, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids.
- Add chili powder if you want a spicy kick.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for 6–8 hours.
- To release the paletas, run warm water over the molds for a few seconds.
Paletas de Tamarindo are a delightful blend of tartness and sweetness, with a touch of spice if you choose to include chili powder. These popsicles are an ode to Mexico’s love for tamarind and are sure to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
Paletas de Piña y Hierbabuena (Pineapple and Mint Popsicles)
These Pineapple and Mint Paletas are a refreshing tropical treat infused with the bright flavors of juicy pineapple and fresh mint. Perfect for hot days, they bring a natural sweetness and cooling effect that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar-free sweetener
- 10–12 fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Blend the pineapple, water, lime juice, and sweetener until smooth.
- Add the mint leaves and pulse briefly to distribute them without fully blending.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for 4–6 hours.
- Serve directly from the freezer for a burst of tropical flavor.
Paletas de Piña y Hierbabuena are a celebration of tropical freshness. The combination of sweet pineapple and fragrant mint creates a cooling sensation that makes these popsicles ideal for beating the summer heat.
Paletas de Café con Canela (Coffee and Cinnamon Popsicles)
Paletas de Café con Canela are a sophisticated take on traditional paletas, combining the bold flavor of coffee with the warmth of cinnamon. This recipe is inspired by the café culture of Mexico, offering a creamy and slightly spiced dessert perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup sweetener of choice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coffee, cream, sweetener, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Freeze for 5–7 hours or until solid.
- Dust with a pinch of cinnamon before serving for an added touch.
Paletas de Café con Canela are a flavorful way to enjoy your favorite coffee flavors in frozen form. The cinnamon adds a cozy warmth, making these paletas perfect for any time of year. Whether as an afternoon treat or a unique dessert, these popsicles are sure to impress.
Paletas de Aguacate (Avocado Popsicles)
Paletas de Aguacate are a creamy and indulgent treat that showcases the versatility of avocados, a staple in Mexican cuisine. These popsicles are smooth, rich, and slightly sweet, making them a unique dessert option that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something different!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup sweetener of choice (e.g., honey, agave, or a sugar-free alternative)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Blend the avocados, milk, sweetener, lime juice, and salt until smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, tapping gently to remove air bubbles.
- Freeze for 4–6 hours or until solid.
- To serve, run warm water over the molds to release the paletas.
Paletas de Aguacate are a testament to the creativity of Mexican desserts. Their creamy texture and subtle sweetness make them a delightful surprise for anyone who tries them. Serve these popsicles as a conversation starter at your next gathering!
Paletas de Jamaica y Frutas (Hibiscus and Fruit Popsicles)
Paletas de Jamaica y Frutas combine the tart and floral notes of hibiscus with the natural sweetness of mixed fruits. This vibrant treat is a nod to Mexico’s popular agua de jamaica (hibiscus tea) and makes for a colorful and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 3 cups water
- 1/4 cup sweetener of choice
- 1 cup mixed fruits (e.g., diced strawberries, mango, pineapple, or kiwi)
Instructions
- Boil the hibiscus flowers in water for 10 minutes, then strain and discard the flowers. Allow the tea to cool.
- Add sweetener to the hibiscus tea and stir until dissolved.
- Place the mixed fruits evenly into popsicle molds.
- Pour the hibiscus tea over the fruits, filling the molds.
- Freeze for 6 hours or until solid.
Paletas de Jamaica y Frutas are a stunning blend of flavors and colors. The tartness of hibiscus perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the fruits, making these popsicles as beautiful as they are delicious.
Paletas de Nuez (Pecan Popsicles)
Paletas de Nuez are a rich and nutty treat that highlights the earthy flavor of pecans. This recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican desserts that often feature nuts as a key ingredient. Creamy and slightly sweet, these paletas are perfect for those who love indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped
- 1 cup whole milk or coconut milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or sugar-free sweetener
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, cream, and sweetener over medium heat until the sweetener dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top.
- Freeze for 6 hours or until firm.
- Serve with a sprinkle of chopped pecans for garnish.
Paletas de Nuez are a luxurious treat that pays homage to the nutty desserts of Mexico. Their creamy texture and bold pecan flavor make them an ideal dessert for special occasions or as a satisfying indulgence on a warm day.
Paletas de Sandía y Pepino (Watermelon and Cucumber Popsicles)
Paletas de Sandía y Pepino are a hydrating and refreshing treat that combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the cool crispness of cucumber. This recipe is inspired by the light and fresh flavors of Mexican aguas frescas, making it the perfect choice for a hot summer day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed and deseeded
- 1 cup cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1–2 tablespoons sweetener (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Blend the watermelon, cucumber, lime juice, sweetener, and salt until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp (optional).
- Pour the liquid into popsicle molds and freeze for 4–6 hours.
- Serve directly from the freezer for a burst of freshness.
Paletas de Sandía y Pepino are a light and refreshing way to enjoy the natural flavors of summer. With their vibrant color and cooling taste, these popsicles are a must-have for outdoor gatherings or post-workout hydration.
Paletas de Horchata (Rice Milk Popsicles)
Paletas de Horchata take the classic Mexican drink and transform it into a creamy frozen dessert. With hints of cinnamon and vanilla, these popsicles offer a nostalgic and comforting flavor that’s perfect for anyone who loves traditional Mexican sweets.
Ingredients
- 1 cup horchata (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup whole milk or almond milk
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk or sugar-free syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the horchata, milk, condensed milk, cinnamon, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, tapping to release air bubbles.
- Freeze for 5–7 hours or until solid.
- Dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Paletas de Horchata capture the creamy, spiced flavor of this beloved Mexican drink in a delightful frozen form. These popsicles are a comforting treat that pairs well with a warm evening or a festive celebration.
Paletas de Guayaba con Yogur (Guava and Yogurt Popsicles)
Paletas de Guayaba con Yogur combine the tropical sweetness of guava with the tangy creaminess of yogurt. This recipe celebrates the exotic and aromatic flavor of guava, making it a standout treat for fruit lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh guava pulp (or canned, strained)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt (for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or a low-carb sweetener
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions
- Blend the guava pulp, yogurt, sweetener, and lime juice until smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, alternating layers with plain yogurt for a marbled effect (optional).
- Freeze for 6 hours or until firm.
Paletas de Guayaba con Yogur are a perfect blend of tropical fruitiness and creamy richness. These popsicles are not only delicious but also provide a good source of probiotics, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Paletas de Naranja y Crema (Orange and Cream Popsicles)
Paletas de Naranja y Crema are a creamy and citrusy dessert that combines the bright flavor of oranges with the smoothness of cream. Inspired by Mexico’s love for citrus fruits, these popsicles are a deliciously nostalgic treat reminiscent of a creamsicle, but with a Mexican twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup sweetener (e.g., honey, sugar, or a low-carb alternative)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, cream, sweetener, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a bit of space for expansion.
- Freeze for 4–6 hours or until firm.
- Serve as a refreshing dessert on a warm day.
Paletas de Naranja y Crema are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy, offering a perfect balance of flavors. Their creamy texture and citrusy aroma make them a crowd-pleaser, ideal for both kids and adults.
Paletas de Plátano y Chocolate (Banana and Chocolate Popsicles)
Paletas de Plátano y Chocolate are a decadent frozen dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of chocolate. This recipe celebrates the comforting and familiar flavors found in many Mexican desserts, making it an instant favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup milk or almond milk
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sweetener (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Blend the bananas, milk, cocoa powder, sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Freeze for 5–7 hours or until firm.
Paletas de Plátano y Chocolate are a rich and satisfying treat that’s perfect for chocolate lovers. With their creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor, these popsicles feel indulgent yet wholesome.
Paletas de Pepino y Limón (Cucumber and Lime Popsicles)
Paletas de Pepino y Limón are a refreshing and hydrating treat that combines the crisp taste of cucumber with the zesty tang of lime. This classic Mexican flavor pairing is both cooling and invigorating, making these popsicles a must-have for hot days.
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons sweetener (e.g., honey, stevia, or erythritol)
- 1/2 cup water
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Blend the cucumber, lime juice, sweetener, water, and salt until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp (optional).
- Pour the liquid into popsicle molds and freeze for 4–6 hours.
- Serve directly from the freezer for a burst of freshness.
Paletas de Pepino y Limón are a refreshing twist on traditional popsicles. Their crisp and tangy flavor makes them a revitalizing snack that’s perfect for recharging on a warm day or after physical activity.
Note: More recipes are coming soon