Get ready to transform your kitchen into a fall flavor paradise with these irresistible Pumpkin Cake Pops! Imagine biting into a perfectly bite-sized dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every single mouthful. These adorable treats combine the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin with a delightful candy coating that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Whether you're hosting a Halloween party, a fall gathering, or just craving a sweet seasonal snack, these cake pops are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cake pops
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor)
- 1 cup frosting
- 1 package candy melts
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and pumpkin puree. Mix thoroughly until a smooth batter forms, ensuring no dry cake mix remains unincorporated.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature for approximately 30-45 minutes.
- Once cooled, crumble the cake into fine crumbs in a large mixing bowl, ensuring no large chunks remain.
- Add frosting to the cake crumbs and mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes moldable and can hold its shape when rolled into balls.
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the cake mixture and roll into uniform 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Insert cake pop sticks halfway into each cake ball. Refrigerate the cake balls for 15-20 minutes to firm them up.
- Melt the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip each cake pop into the melted candy coating, gently tapping off excess. Immediately sprinkle with decorative sprinkles if desired.
- Place the finished cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or cake pop stand to set. Allow the coating to completely harden at room temperature.
- Store cake pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Tips
- Chill is key: Always refrigerate your cake balls before dipping to ensure they hold their shape and prevent crumbling.
- Temperature matters: Melt candy melts slowly and at low power to prevent burning and achieve a smooth coating.
- Get creative with decorations: Use seasonal sprinkles, drizzle contrasting colored candy melts, or add edible glitter for extra flair.
- Consistency is crucial: When mixing cake crumbs and frosting, aim for a play-dough like texture that holds together easily.
- Use a styrofoam block or special cake pop stand to help your pops set perfectly upright and prevent sliding.
- For best flavor, let cake pops sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance their taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
