Watermelon-Mojito Popsicles

Adult popsicles with rum included! From Food & Wine; posted for safekeeping. "Cooking" time is freezing time.

• Ready In: 6 hrs 40 mins
• Serves: 8
• Yields: 8 popsicles

Ingredients

• MOJITO LAYER

• 5  ounces  simple syrup (see Note)
• 4  ounces water
• 2 1⁄4 ounces light rum
• 2  ounces lime juice (fresh is best)
• 3  tablespoons mint leaves, packed
• 1⁄4 ounce  lime cordial
• 1⁄4 teaspoon xanthan gum (see Note)

• WATERMELON LAYER

• 10  ounces watermelon juice
• 2  ounces  light  agave nectar
• 1 1⁄2 ounces citrus-infused vodka
• 2  ounces lime juice (fresh is best)
• 1⁄4 ounce  lime cordial
• 1  pinch kosher salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon xanthan gum (see Note)

Directions

1. MAKE THE MOJITO LAYER: In a blender, puree all of the ingredients except the xanthan gum on high speed until smooth and bright green, about 30 seconds. Pour into a bowl.
2. Slowly sprinkle the xanthan gum over while quickly whisking, until slightly thickened and foamy. Let rest for 15 minutes, then skim any foam.
3. Pour 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mojito layer into eight 3-ounce popsicle molds or paper cups. Freeze until almost firm, 1 hour. Poke a popsicle stick into the center of each.
4. MAKE THE WATERMELON LAYER: In another bowl, combine all of the ingredients except the xanthan gum.
5. Slowly sprinkle the xanthan gum over while quickly whisking, until slightly thickened. Let rest, then skim.
6. Carefully add 1 1/2 tablespoons of the watermelon layer to the mojito layer in the molds. Freeze until almost firm, 1 hour.
7. Pour the remaining mojito mixture on top and freeze until almost firm, 1 hour.
8. Top with the remaining watermelon layer and freeze until firm, 2 hours. Unmold and serve.
9. NOTES: The thickening agent xanthan gum is available at many supermarkets and on amazon.com. Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, simmer 4 ounces of water with 1/2 cup of sugar over moderate heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes; let cool. Refrigerate for up to 1 month. Makes about 6 ounces.