Name: Homemade Cake Pops Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 7 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 2/3 cups (209g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or buttermilk); 7 Tablespoons (99g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 and 3/4 cups (210g) confectioners’ sugar; 2–3 teaspoons heavy cream or whole milk; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 24 ounces (678g) candy melts (or white chocolate bars); Sprinkles

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 33 reviews

If you’ve ever wanted to create a fun and utterly delightful treat that looks as good as it tastes, this Homemade Cake Pops Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining moist, fluffy cake with luscious frosting, all dipped in glossy candy coating and sprinkled with colorful toppings, these little bites of joy are perfect for parties, gifts, or indulging your sweet tooth anytime. Once you master this recipe, you’ll be amazed at how easy and satisfying it is to whip up these playful, poppable desserts that never fail to bring smiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white glass bowl holds a smooth, thick beige batter with a creamy texture. A metal whisk with thin silver wires is partly sunk in the batter, creating soft circular patterns on the surface. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface that is visible around its edges. The light highlights the batter's shiny, slightly glossy finish and the thin layers clinging to the whisk wires. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering all the ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal for your cake pops. From the rich butter that brings moisture to the cake, to the smooth vanilla flavor that ties everything together, every item is essential for success.

All-purpose flour (1 and 2/3 cups): Provides structure and the perfect tender crumb for your cake.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Adds extra lift and softness to your bake.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup + 7 Tablespoons): Brings richness and creamy texture to both cake and frosting.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake while aiding in moisture retention.
Large egg (1): Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
Pure vanilla extract (3 teaspoons total): Adds a warm, inviting flavor throughout the recipe.
Whole milk (1 cup): Keeps the cake tender and moist.
Confectioners’ sugar (1 and 3/4 cups): Sweetens and smooths the frosting perfectly.
Heavy cream or whole milk (2–3 teaspoons): Adds creaminess to the frosting’s texture.
Candy melts or white chocolate (24 ounces): Creates the shiny, colorful coating that makes your cake pops irresistible.
Sprinkles: For decorating and adding a joyful crunch.

How to Make Homemade Cake Pops Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and greasing a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking. Whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl—these dry ingredients will give your cake the perfect rise and texture. Then, in a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy; this step is the foundation of your cake’s moist, tender crumb. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on high speed until fully combined, ensuring every bite bursts with lovely vanilla flavor.

Step 2: Mixing and Baking the Cake

Slowly add your dry ingredients alternated with the whole milk to the wet mixture using a low mixer speed, or fold gently by hand to avoid overmixing. Pour the rich batter evenly into your prepared pan and place it in the oven to bake for 30 to 36 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and your kitchen fills with the most inviting cake aroma. If the top starts browning too fast, just tent it lightly with foil to keep it perfectly golden without burning.

Step 3: Cooling the Cake

Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack; cooling is essential so your cake pops hold their shape and don’t crumble when forming the balls. Patience here pays off and guarantees the best results!

Step 4: Crafting the Frosting

While your cake cools, whip up the frosting by beating room temperature butter until creamy. Slowly incorporate the confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla, combining everything on low before cranking up the speed for three full minutes. This luscious frosting binds your cake crumbs perfectly, acting as the glue for those adorable cake pops.

Step 5: Forming Cake Balls

Crumble your cooled cake into a large bowl and add the frosting. Mix gently on low speed until evenly combined without any large lumps. Then scoop out about one tablespoon portions and roll each into smooth balls. Place these on a lined baking sheet and chill them in the fridge for at least two hours or freeze for one to help them firm up and retain their shape.

Step 6: Melting the Candy Coating

Melt your candy melts or white chocolate in a microwave-safe cup using 20-second increments, stirring well after each to achieve a silky, smooth coating. Alternatively, use a double boiler if you prefer stovetop melting. This coating is what seals your cake pops in their glossy, colorful shell.

Step 7: Dipping and Decorating

Working with a few chilled cake balls at a time, dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted coating, then gently insert it halfway into each ball. Dip the cake ball entirely in the coating, ensuring it’s fully covered and the stick is secure. Lightly tap the stick to remove excess coating, then sprinkle your favorite decorations over the top before standing them upright in a foam block to dry. Chill or let them set at room temperature until firm.

How to Serve Homemade Cake Pops Recipe

The image shows a close-up of four cake pops on white sticks, standing upright on a white surface with a white marbled background. The nearest cake pop is coated in smooth white icing and decorated on top with colorful sprinkles in red, yellow, green, blue, white, and purple. Behind it, there are three other cake pops with a similar smooth finish in light pastel colors, including pale pink and cream, some topped with tiny white sprinkles. The overall look is delicate and clean, with soft lighting highlighting the creamy texture of the cake pop coating. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkles, edible glitter, crushed nuts, or even drizzles of contrasting chocolate can add an extra pop of color and texture that makes each bite as fun to look at as it is to eat. Play with seasonal colors or party themes for an irresistible presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair your cake pops with fresh fruit, a scoop of ice cream, or a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa to round out a delightful snack or dessert experience. Their size makes them perfect for sharing alongside other festive treats.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cake pops in decorative jars, colorful vases, or a themed foam block centerpiece to double their charm. Wrapping them individually in clear cellophane tied with ribbons also makes for wonderful party favors or thoughtful homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cake pops refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week. This helps maintain their freshness and keeps the candy coating nice and firm without becoming sticky or soft.

Freezing

You can freeze cake pops for longer storage by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transferring them to a sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to one month and thaw quickly at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Since cake pops are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, gently warming is not necessary and may cause the coating to lose its shine or become soft. Simply let frozen cake pops thaw on the counter for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use boxed cake mix instead?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with homemade cake from scratch, you can use a good-quality boxed cake mix to save time. Just be sure to add enough frosting to bind the crumbs well for rolling.

What if my cake pops fall off the sticks?

Make sure your cake balls are well chilled before dipping, and that you coat the stick end with melted chocolate before inserting. Gently pushing the stick halfway through the ball ensures they stay secure.

Can I use different flavors for the coating?

Definitely! Candy melts come in many colors and flavors, or you can use tempered chocolate for a more gourmet touch. Feel free to experiment with white, milk, or dark chocolate coatings.

How do I avoid cracks in the coating?

Ensure your cake balls are cold and the melting chocolate isn’t overheated. Also, dipping quickly but carefully helps create a smooth, even coat without cracking.

Are these suitable for kids to help make?

Yes! Kids will love rolling the balls and decorating with sprinkles. Just supervise the melting chocolate part for safety and mess control.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, this Homemade Cake Pops Recipe checks every box. From the soft cake to the glossy coating and playful decorations, these treats are guaranteed to brighten up any occasion. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to spread some sweetness with every colorful pop!