Red Velvet Cake Pops are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavor of red velvet cake with the fun and portability of cake pops. With their vibrant color and smooth cream cheese coating, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence at home. The slightly tangy and sweet taste of red velvet paired with the creaminess of the frosting creates a dessert that’s loved by many. Let’s dive into how you can make these delicious treats!
What Goes into This Red Velvet Cake Pops
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For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
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For the Coating:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (180 g) chocolate or candy melts (red, white, or any preferred color)
- Sprinkles or crushed nuts for decoration (optional)
Step-by-Step Red Velvet Cake Pops Recipe
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Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix until smooth.
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Combine and Bake: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
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Make Cake Crumbs: Once cooled, crumble the cake into a large bowl until it resembles fine crumbs.
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Add Frosting: Add the softened cream cheese and vanilla extract to the crumbs. Mix until combined and you can form a dough-like consistency.
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Form Cake Balls: Scoop small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Chill the Balls: Refrigerate the cake balls for about 30 minutes to firm them up.
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Melt the Coating: While the cake balls chill, melt the chocolate or candy melts according to the package instructions.
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Dip the Pops: Dip the end of a lollipop stick into the melted chocolate, then insert it into a cake ball. Dip the entire ball into the coating, letting excess drip off.
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Decorate: Before the coating hardens, sprinkle with decorations if desired. Place the cake pops upright in a foam block or stand to set.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cake Pops
To serve your Red Velvet Cake Pops, arrange them on a decorative platter for a stunning presentation. You can also stick them into a foam block and display them upright for a fun centerpiece at parties. Pair them with a glass of milk or hot chocolate for a delightful treat that everyone will love. These pops also make excellent gifts; wrap them in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a charming touch!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cake Pops
- Bake Evenly: Ensure your oven is preheated for even baking. Using an oven thermometer can help you confirm the temperature.
- Keep it Cool: If the chocolate coating starts to harden while dipping, reheat it gently. Warm chocolate will dip more smoothly.
- Customization: Feel free to mix in different flavors of extracts or try different colored candy melts for a seasonal twist!
Red Velvet Cake Pops: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I store leftover cake pops?
A: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Q: Can I use a cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch?
A: Absolutely! A boxed red velvet cake mix works perfectly in this recipe and will save you some time.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can make your own buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it.
Red Velvet Cake Pops are not only fun to make but also irresistibly delicious. Whether for a celebration or just a treat for yourself, these cake pops will bring a smile to your face. Give them a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!