Cake pops are a delightful treat that can bring joy to any party or gathering. They’re fun to make, easy to eat, and are loved by both kids and adults. This simple cake pop recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a sweet snack with a twist. The great news is that with a few tweaks, you can make these cake pops a healthier version that still packs that delicious flavor. Whether you’re preparing for a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for your family, this recipe offers an enjoyable experience with less guilt.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This simple cake pop recipe is not only a fun activity to do with family or friends, but it can also align with a healthier lifestyle. By using a store-bought cake mix and modifying some ingredients, you can create a lighter option that fits nicely into a balanced meal plan. These cake pops can be enjoyed guilt-free, especially if you’re aiming for good weight loss practices. They also serve as a great meal prep option, allowing you to make a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.
How to Make Simple Cake Pops
Making cake pops is an enjoyable process that brings out your creative side in the kitchen. Below, you will find all the necessary steps to create these delightful treats.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Large bowl
- Baking sheet
- Styrofoam block (for standing the cake pops)
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 (16 ounce) container prepared chocolate frosting
- 18 lollipop sticks
- 1 (14 ounce) bag chocolate candy melts
- 1 (.75 ounce) tube decorating icing
- 1 tablespoon multicolored candy sprinkles (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs using an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue to beat for 2 more minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 28 to 33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour.
- Once cool, crumble the cake into a large bowl.
- Stir the frosting into the crumbled cake until the mixture is sticky and starts to come together but is not overly smooth.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes until chilled.
- Roll the chilled cake mixture into eighteen 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Melt about 1/4 cup of candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl for about 20 seconds on high.
- Push a lollipop stick halfway into each ball of cake mixture.
- Gently dip each ball into the melted chocolate to coat them evenly.
- Place the coated cake pops upright in a block of styrofoam.
- While the chocolate coating is still wet, decorate with candy sprinkles.
- Repeat the steps until you’ve made all the cake pops, melting more candy melts as needed.
How to Serve Simple Cake Pops
These cake pops make a fun and interactive dessert. You can serve them individually on a platter or place them in a decorative container for a cute display. To keep your servings healthy, aim for one or two cake pops as a treat instead of excessive portions. This way, you can enjoy their sweet flavor while keeping an eye on your overall daily calorie intake.
Storage & Freezing: Simple Cake Pops
If you have leftover cake pops, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cake pops. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
For a balanced dessert option, consider pairing these cake pops with fresh fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries. The natural sweetness from the fruit complements the rich flavor of the chocolate, making for a heart-healthy balanced treat. You might also enjoy these alongside a cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Variations
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Healthier Version: Use a sugar-free cake mix and substitute the frosting with yogurt or a homemade low-sugar frosting to create a healthier cake pop option. This can help cut down on calories and sugar, making it more suitable for those monitoring their sugar intake.
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High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: To increase the protein content, consider adding protein powder to the cake batter. For a low-carb treat, you can use almond flour instead of regular cake mix along with a sugar-free frosting.
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Air Fryer Version: Instead of baking the cake in the oven, you can use an air fryer for a quicker cooking time. After preparing the batter, place it in small silicone molds suited for the air fryer and cook at 320°F for about 10-15 minutes. Cool and proceed with the crumbing and frosting as described above.
FAQs
1. Can I make these cake pops healthier?
Absolutely! You can use a sugar-free cake mix or reduce the amount of frosting. Substituting yogurt for frosting can reduce calories and sugar.
2. How long do cake pops last?
Cake pops can last up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month in a freezer-safe container.
3. Can I use alternative flours for gluten-free cake pops?
Yes! You can use gluten-free cake mix or almond flour for a gluten-free version, ensuring any frosting used is also gluten-free.
4. Is this recipe suitable for diabetics?
You can adjust this recipe to be more diabetic-friendly by using sugar-free cake mixes and frostings, and controlling portion sizes.
Make-Ahead Tips for Simple Cake Pops
These simple cake pops are an excellent meal prep option. You can make a batch over the weekend and store them in the fridge or freezer. This makes it easy for you to grab a quick snack or dessert during the week without having to spend time in the kitchen. By preparing in advance, you ensure that you have a healthy, fun treat ready to satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to your health goals.
In conclusion, this simple cake pop recipe seamlessly fits into any diet focused on healthier living. By being mindful of ingredients and portion size, you can enjoy these treats guilt-free, making them a wonderful addition to your meal prep routine. Try whipping up a batch today, and you might find they become a regular feature in your snack rotation!
Simple Cake Pops
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs using an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue to beat for 2 more minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 28 to 33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour.
- Once cool, crumble the cake into a large bowl.
- Stir the frosting into the crumbled cake until the mixture is sticky and starts to come together but is not overly smooth.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes until chilled.
- Roll the chilled cake mixture into eighteen 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Melt about 1/4 cup of candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl for about 20 seconds on high.
- Push a lollipop stick halfway into each ball of cake mixture.
- Gently dip each ball into the melted chocolate to coat them evenly.
- Place the coated cake pops upright in a block of styrofoam.
- While the chocolate coating is still wet, decorate with candy sprinkles.
- Repeat the steps until you’ve made all the cake pops, melting more candy melts as needed.