Satisfy your sweet cravings with these delightful Homemade Chocolate Cake Pops! Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a fun baking project with the kids, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit.
Made with moist chocolate cake crumbled and mixed with creamy frosting, then dipped in melted chocolate and decorated to perfection, these cake pops are as adorable as they are delicious.
Follow along to learn how to make your own batch of these irresistible treats right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup hot water
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Assembling and Decorating:
- 12 oz chocolate candy melts or chocolate chips
- Cake pop sticks
- Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or other decorations
Instructions
Bake the Chocolate Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract, and beat on medium speed until smooth.
Stir in the hot water until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
Make the Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk, until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Prepare the Cake Pops:
Crumble the cooled chocolate cake into a large mixing bowl.
Add about 3/4 cup of the frosting to the crumbled cake and mix until well combined.
The mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be too wet.
If necessary, add more frosting a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Shape and Chill:
Roll the cake mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
Place the cake balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Insert a cake pop stick into each ball. Chill the cake pops in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate candy melts or chocolate chips according to the package instructions, stirring until smooth.
Dip and Decorate:
Dip each chilled cake pop into the melted chocolate, coating it completely.
Allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then decorate with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or other decorations as desired.
Place the decorated cake pops upright in a cake pop stand or insert them into a piece of styrofoam to set.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chocolate coating has set, your Homemade Chocolate Cake Pops are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at room temperature and watch them disappear.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: Approximately 200 per cake pop
- Fat: Approximately 10g per cake pop
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g per cake pop
- Protein: Approximately 2g per cake pop
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cake for the cake pops?
Yes, you can use any type of cake you like for the cake pops. Chocolate cake works well, but you can also try vanilla, red velvet, or even funfetti cake.
2. Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought frosting can be used as a convenient alternative to homemade frosting. Just make sure it’s a flavor that complements the chocolate cake.
3. How long do cake pops last?
Cake pops can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
4. Can I make cake pops in advance for a party?
Yes, you can make cake pops in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
5. Can I use white chocolate for dipping instead of milk or dark chocolate?
Of course! White chocolate can be used for dipping the cake pops for a different flavor and appearance. Just melt it according to the package instructions and proceed with dipping and decorating as usual.