Move over macaroons and cupcakes, there’s a new dessert taking over town. From sweet shops to dessert stands, popsicles are popping up at every turn in H-Town. But don’t expect those run-of-the-mill ice pops from childhood, these cold confections are all grown up and shine in an array of gourmet flavors. Read on for the places we’re heading to beat the heat.
Award-winning pastry chef Chris Leung and his biz-partner Christopher Balat do bang up biz at their West U ice cream and sorbet shop, Cloud 10 Creamery, so it comes as no surprise that the company nails dreamy and decadent popsicles, too. You can’t go wrong with picks like rocky road on a stick, sassafras-tobacco dream bars or tiramisu push pops, all made without artificial flavorings or additives.
Pastry Chef Rebecca Masson is always turning out stellar sweets at her Midtown-set Fluff Bake Bar. Whether it’s in the form of fluffernutters, poptarts or Veruca Salt cupcakes, her faithful followers can’t get enough. Don’t miss Masson’s coolest new additions, which include ice cream and $4 popsicles. The popsicle flavors are always changing, but on any given day guests might score an icy Almond Joy or Mimosa pop. Note: Fluff’s popsicles are available through the summer, but Masson might keep them on the menu year-round, depending on demand.
For more than 30 years, the La Brisa Ice Cream factory in east Houston has turned out Mexican-style paletas (popsicles) to hungry locals. Find more than two dozen flavors in the freezer section of HEB and Fiesta or head to the headquarters for icy treats straight from the source. Regulars swear by the cookies and cream, watermelon and coconut. Note: The factory accepts cash only.
Shoppers looking for a power-shopping break at Memorial City Mall love the treats from Popfancy Pops (pictured). The brand touts three categories—the health-conscious Popfit, the decadent Poplab and outside-the-box Poplab lines. Each is made fresh daily using organic sweeteners and fresh produce. Though the line-up is always changing, patrons can expect everything from watermelon basil to salted-caramel brownie to pop up on the menu.
Four years after launching in Alabama, Steel City Pops made its way to Houston in summer 2016, setting up a brick and mortar shop in The Heights area. Made in small batches, SCP’s products shine using all-natural or certified organic ingredients, each sweetened with raw, organic cane sugar, rather than artificial colors and flavors. On the menu, fans can select from fruity, creamy or cookie options with flavors like lavender lemonade, champagne white tea and vanilla chocolate chip.
