Fresh popsicles

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It’s hot as Hades up in here, and I must say, bring it on! I’m in the air conditioning, of course, but bring it.

I’m shocked that I don’t even mind slaving away in my hot kitchen, baking up all my Dessert Diva treats. It makes me feel old school, when blood, sweat and tears was what it took to get things accomplished.

Wow, the heat must have really gone to my head, or perhaps it was the bourbon, but either way, summer is here, the heat is on. I’m not complaining for once, and I have no-bake treats up the ying yang, to keep your kitchen cool. The “Hell, yeah, we don’t need our oven” recipe of the week is Fresh Blueberry and Banana Popsicles.

All right, maybe not that exciting, but they are simple, good for you, and brother, they are mighty tasty. I think this might be a fun one for the kiddos to take part in. No sharp knives or hot stoves to contend with. After you get this recipe mastered (which will take all of five minutes), you and the kids can use your imagination and come up with your own recipes.

Maybe that could be a project this summer: Come up with a “It’s hot in here, so let’s cool it off ” cookbook. One condition — you must share all the recipes with me, as I do with you. Don’t worry, I will give you the credit.

I love making my own popsicles, since you can control the amount of sugar and really make them as healthy (or not) as you want. I have the popsicle

molds, which are quite easy to find — the supermarkets have them, so that’s not a problem. But if you really want to go old school, how about Dixie cups and good ol’ popsicle sticks? Doesn’t that just scream summer?

I like the whole process of gently inserting the popsicle stick into the Dixie cup and then ripping off the paper when they are all nice and frozen. Brings back memories of sprinklers, lawn chairs and aunts who cocktail in the afternoon hours. Awww, that’s where I get it!

So enjoy this cool treat, make it as a family, couple or by your own sweet self. You won’t be sorry — it’s hot to be cool, wait … It’s hip to be square. Something along those lines.

Now, follow the directions, put some love into it, and invite me over when it’s done.

Fresh Blueberry and Banana Popsicles

2 cups plain yogurt (can use vanilla)

1 cup blueberries

1/2 cup mashed banana

1/2 cup low-sugar apple juice

In food processor, blend yogurt and fruit until smooth. Add apple juice and blend well.

Pour into popsicle molds (or Dixie cups) and freeze for at least four hours.

Un-mold and enjoy! Respond: letters@boulderweekly.com