How to Make Amazake Fruit Popsicles (Healthy Summer Dessert Recipe)

Known in Japan as a “drinkable IV,” amazake is a traditional fermented rice drink valued for its rich nutritional profile. Made from rice and rice koji, it contains natural glucose, amino acids, and B vitamins, making it a refreshing source of nourishment and energy, especially during hot summer days.

Despite its name, amazake is not actually sake. The word “ama” means “sweet,” referring to the gentle, natural sweetness created through the fermentation process.

In this recipe, I use amazake’s natural sweetness to reduce the amount of added sugar, creating popsicles that are both refreshing and naturally flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 

All the ingredients in these popsicles are healthy, so you can enjoy them whenever you have a craving. I’ll explain the nutrients of the amazake below, but one of the highlights is that these nutrients are preserved even when the popsicles are frozen. Plus, because of its natural high sugar content, these popsicles don’t get too hard when they are fully frozen. 

Ingredients Overview 

Amazake - Amazake has essential nutrients for our body. It is rich in B vitamins for energy, essential amino acids for overall health, and natural enzymes that support digestion. In addition to these benefits, because it is a fermented food, it contains natural glucose that provides a quick, healthy energy boost to help you stay refreshed on a hot summer day.

There are two main types of amazake: 

1. Koji Amazake - This is the type I use in my recipe. It’s non-alcoholic and is made simply from rice and rice koji (malted rice). Koji breaks down the rice starch into natural glucose, which creates that lovely, gentle sweetness.

2. Sake-lees Amazake (Sakekasu Amazake) - This version is made from the leftover solids from sake production. Because it is a byproduct of brewing, it contains a small amount of alcohol and typically requires added sugar to achieve the right flavor profile. Try this organic concentrated amazake made with sake lees and rice koji. 

If you prefer to make your own non-alcoholic amazake at home, check this homemade amazake recipe as well.

Fruits - I used blueberries and kiwi fruits in this recipe. These two fruits offer a beautiful pop of color, are rich in vitamins, and are widely available in Japan and abroad.  

Greek Yogurt - Because Amazake has a unique, fermented flavor, adding some yogurt helps balance the profile. I tested Greek yogurt and regular yogurt, and found that the lower water content of Greek yogurt creates a better-finished texture. 

Variations & Serving Ideas 

You can make a variety of amazake popsicles by swapping in your favorite fruits. As amazake is naturally sweet, you don’t need to add much extra sugar. However, depending on the tartness of the fruits you choose, you might find that a small amount of added sweetener helps balance the flavor profile.

If you’re interested in more nutritious recipes, you might also enjoy:

Aojiru - A unique green juice crafted by raw green leafy vegetables. With some fresh fruits, it’s packed with essential nutrients to boost your energy. 

Japanese-inspired weight loss drink - With matcha, umeboshi, ginger, and kombu, you can take care of your metabolism and overall wellness at home with this drink.