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POPSICLES Joy Pops: The Coolest Paletas in Town
Latina-style mobile popsicle truck keeps it cool
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aletas are popsicles that originally hail from Mexico and have spread around the world—including to our little corner. They are made with fruit, cream and light sweeteners. The result is a refreshing, satisfyingly creamy and fruity taste perfect for hot summer days here in Salt Lake City. Kalli Lebaron, the owner of Joy Pops, launched her gourmet “ice cream truck” style paletería when she was just 17 years old. Kalli met Valerie, the owner of Joy Nutrition Pops, in the Dominican Republic and was so inspired by her that she decided to apprentice with her to learn how to make genuine paletas from scratch. With the support of her family, she put together a business plan, found a retired ice cream truck and space in a commissary kitchen, and launched her business as she was wrapping up high school. —Lydia Martinez
WHAT MAKES PALETAS UNIQUE? “American ice pops are normally water-based and are flavored with artificial flavors, thickeners and sweeteners,” explains Kalli. “Mexican paletas are made with a whole fruit base, all real fruit and water. The cream-based ones are made with thick cream, milk and natural sugars. It is also not churned, so we are not incorporating air into the base. We end up with a dense texture where you can taste the quality and the care. And what always stands out to me is the texture.” They are almost like gelato in popsicle form.
Fruity Favorites: Tropical—with strawberry, mango, pineapple and peach Mango & Kiwi—made with fresh mangos and whole kiwis Watermelon—tastes like the sweetest fresh watermelon ever Mojito—limeade and fresh mint
Creamy Pops: Coconut—with fresh shredded coconut Cookies and Cream—with an ENTIRE cookie right at the top Berry Cheesecake—with house-made cream cheese and berry jam Coffee & Toffee—creamy coffee with chocolatecovered toffee
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PHOTO ADAM FINKLE
Joy Pops is a Draper-based ice cream truck, with popsicle carts that visit special events. They also offer private catering, joypops.com
