For popsicle ice cream production, the choice between using a blast freezer or a popsicle machine depends on the scale of production and the desired customization options.

A blast freezer can be used with either silicone or stainless steel molds to make popsicles. Compared to a commercial popsicle machine, using a blast freezer for popsicle production requires a longer cooling time and is more suitable for small-scale production. Silicone molds offer more design options and are easier to customize different popsicle shapes compared to stainless steel molds.

On the other hand, a commercial popsicle machine is ideal for large-scale and efficient popsicle production. Stainless steel molds are more durable and easier to clean than silicone molds. They also have better heat conduction properties, resulting in higher cooling efficiency.

In conclusion, if you are looking to produce a small quantity of popsicles with unique shapes, a blast freezer with silicone molds may be the better option. However, if you are aiming for high-volume production with efficiency and durability in mind, a commercial popsicle machine with stainless steel molds would be the more suitable choice.