Who says ice has to be frozen water? Double the fun this Fourth of July with a cocktail that just gets better with time. Since ice not only cools a beverage, but can also water it down, I decided to add some flavor and a kick with the melt. It’s simple, use an ice cube tray or Popsicle trays (84 cents a tray at Walmart) as I did, to make ice of your drink of choice. I went with a pineapple coconut water that I picked up in Trader Joe’s for 99 cents with a half an ounce of vodka, a simple basil leaf and a couple of blueberries for color. These “sicles” freeze in a couple of hours and can be made with any flavors you like or have on hand. This is also easy to make non-alcoholic so that all guests can partake in the festivities. Check out the recipe below for the cocktail recipe.

Popsicle Dream
Yields 2

Ingredients:
3 oz of vodka
1 8.45 oz can of coconut water w/ pineapple juice (trader joes)
1 12 oz can of club soda
1 medium lime
4 basil leaves
1 tbsp. blueberries (optional)
1 tbsp. local honey
a pinch of cayenne

Directions:
1. Add 1/2 oz vodka and coconut pineapple water to each cool gear popsicle container.
2. Rinse and add a basil leaf to each and optional blueberries. Close and freeze until ready to use.
3. In a large glass or martinis shaker, add the juice of half a lime and basil leaves. Crush leaves to release flavor.
4. Add honey, vodka, water and cayenne. Top and shake until well blended.
5. Add a Popsicle to each serving glass, and pour mixture evenly into each glass.
6. Top with soda water and a squeeze of lime.
7. Enjoy.