Saskatoon Berry Yogurt Popsicles (Vegan & Refined Sugar-Free)

My family and I just finished our annual Saskatoon berry harvest from a local U-pick farm. I look forward to this outing every year—not just for the berries, but because it always brings back memories of picking wild Saskatoons as a child with my favourite aunt near her cozy log cabin in the woods. I still remember the way she’d surprise us with a freshly baked Saskatoon berry pie as a reward for our efforts—mmm! This year, I decided to turn our harvest into something new and refreshing: Saskatoon berry yogurt popsicles.

Where I’m from in Canada, we call them Saskatoon berries—not Juneberries or serviceberries. The name comes from the Cree word misâskwatômina, referring to the native berry-producing shrub that grows abundantly throughout western Canada, both wild and cultivated. Saskatoon berries are a beloved local fruit, showing up in everything from pies and jams to ice cream. And unlike in many parts of the U.S., our harvest season doesn’t begin until mid-July and often stretches into early August—so the name “Juneberry” never quite made sense here.

One of the things I love most about this little fruit is how beautifully it freezes. We always pick a generous amount and stash it away for use throughout the year. This summer, I came up with a fun new way to put them to use—one that satisfies my kids’ constant requests for a frozen treat.

These vegan, refined sugar-free popsicles are packed with gut-friendly probiotics thanks to the homemade plant-based yogurt I used. They turned out so delicious, I had to share the recipe with you! They’re perfect for families, garden-to-freezer cooks, or anyone who loves a sweet summer treat. Let’s dive into this easy and refreshing recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Popsicles

These Saskatoon berry yogurt popsicles are the perfect sweet treat on a warm summer day, and are full of gut-friendly probiotics, all while being dairy-free and refined sugar-free!

Made With Probiotic-Rich Yogurt

If you’re looking for ways to improve your child’s gut health, then these popsicles are for you! Made with creamy plant-based coconut yogurt, this icy treat delivers a healthy dose of probiotics to help populate gut flora with healthy bacteria. This is crucial for maintaining optimal immune function, digestive health, and even mental well-being.

Creamy Texture Without the Dairy

Finding truly satisfying dairy-free treats can be a challenge—but these popsicles do not disappoint. Made with rich and creamy coconut yogurt, they offer all the indulgence of a traditional frozen dessert, but without the dairy. The smooth texture and naturally tangy flavour make them a dream for anyone avoiding milk products—whether due to allergies, lifestyle, or simply preference.

Naturally Sweetened (No Refined Sugar)

What really makes me happy about these popsicles is that they’re naturally sweetened with maple syrup—yum! I do my best to limit refined sugar in my family’s diet, which is why I prefer to make my desserts. White sugar and corn syrup/high-fructose corn syrup have zero nutrients, weaken the immune system, and cause inflammation in the body. (For more information on the health hazards of refined sugar, see my post “Am I Eating Too Much Sugar?”) Maple syrup is minimally processed and contains B vitamins, iron, calcium, and zinc.

Tools Needed

• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender/food processor
• Popsicle molds

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Saskatoon berries – fresh or frozen
• Dairy-free yogurt – store-bought or homemade (find my recipe for plant-based yogurt here)
• Honey – if not strictly vegan, otherwise sub with maple syrup
• Maple syrup
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract

How to Make Saskatoon Berry Yogurt Popsicles

Cook the Berries

Combine Saskatoon berries, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. After 5-7 minutes, the berries should soften and begin to burst. Remove from heat.

Sweeten the Yogurt

In a medium bowl (or large liquid measuring cup), mix vanilla and 5 tablespoons of honey into the yogurt.

Layer or Swirl

Spoon alternating layers of yogurt and berry mixture into your popsicle molds, or swirl them together gently with a skewer for a marbled effect.

Freeze

Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for 6 hours or until solid.

Remove Molds and Enjoy!

Briefly run molds under warm water to release the popsicles.

Tips & Variations

• Use monk fruit sweetener in place of maple syrup for a lower glycemic, diabetic-friendly option
• Stir in 4 teaspoons of inulin powder with the yogurt to boost the popsicle’s prebiotic content and support gut health.
• Try this recipe using blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries!

FAQ

• What kind of dairy-free yogurt works best?

You can use any plant-based yogurt, but I’ve found that coconut yogurt gives the best flavour and texture. Remember to use one without added sugar!

• Are Saskatoon berries the same as blueberries?

No, Saskatoons, while similar in appearance to blueberries, are different in texture, flavour, and nutritional profile. Saskatoons are firmer and less juicy than blueberries, but sweeter with a slightly nutty taste, without the tartness that blueberries often have. And where blueberries are higher in vitamin C and antioxidants (particularly anthocyanins), Saskatoons contain more protein, calcium, iron, and fibre.

More Refined Sugar-Free Treats You’ll Love

Looking for more refined sugar-free recipes? Check out the Refined Sugar-Free Recipes page! Here are just a few samples:

• Mixed Berry Crumble
• Easy Spelt Blueberry Breakfast Pastries
• Vegan Sourdough Discard Saskatoon Berry Scones