Just like all art forms, baking evolves and transforms over time. Re-inventions and expansions take place to fit new trends and current fashions. And, the revolution of cakes involves a series of ever-changing shapes, sizes and colors. Just a few years ago, monumental-sized three-tier confections were the be-all and end-all of the cake scene. Today, however, we are seeing a preference for something a bit smaller; something that may require a little bit of restraint. Introducing the Cake Pop – a tiny sweet treat so addictive, you may not have enough to share! How are cake pops made? Let me fill you in.
How Are Cake Pops Made?
If you’re anything like me, satisfying your sweet tooth is a way of life. There are no hesitations when it comes to indulging in the vast pleasures of the pastry world. And, these cute cake popsicles are the current star of the show. Colorful, round, and incredibly delicious, cake pops are fun lollipop-like desserts covered in either milk or dark chocolate. Gone in just two bites, the various colors and graphic decorations make it something between a fun dessert and a fashion accessory.
An irresistible, miniature cake, this contagious trend is putting amateur bakers and soccer moms to work. From tennis balls to unicorns, bees, and bunny rabbits, the possibilities are endless!
The History of Cake Pops
Unlike the deep history of classic desserts such as tiramisu and creme brulee; cake pops are a monument for the millennial generation. First launched in 2008 by the blogger from Bakerella, Angie Dudley was the first baker to transform truffle-like balls into chocolate-covered cake popsicles. The delectable dessert soon became a national obsession on February 1st, 2008, when the date was officially named National Cake Pop Day. Cake pops have now become a certain work of art, as some bakers have created incredible cake pops that resemble anything from snowmen to minions.
Customize It!
Preparing for the Back to School season can be a stressful time. Parents may relish in the joy of reclaiming their usual routine, yet the kids may not be so eager to head back to homework and uniforms. Baking cake pops with your kids is a fun way to get them excited for the next school term! Not only will they have something extra special in their lunch box, but mom and dad can also indulge in something sweet!
What are the Most Popular Cake Pop Flavors?
As we’ve mentioned before, there are a plethora of ways to design and decorate your cake pops. Really, the sky is the limit! Decorations for the outer layer of a cake pop usually include sprinkles and sweets, it’s best to keep the flavors simple and delicious. Some of the most popular flavors include chocolate (my personal favorite), vanilla and red velvet.
What Frosting Should I Use?
Fluffy buttercream frosting, swiss meringue coating, or cocoa fudge frosting are all divine flavors to experiment with. If you’d prefer to keep things simple, there is a selection of basic cake pop flavors. Chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, and lemon are guaranteed winners.
If you enjoy something a little more “out there”, go for specialty flavors like chocolate-mint, carrot cake, chocolate peanut butter, or cookies and cream.
Now That I’ve Made It, What do I do With It? How to Store or Freeze Cake Pops
When it comes to baking up a storm, I have no problem with spending the entire day in the kitchen. But, the reality is that it can take anywhere between one to three hours to prepare these delicious treats. And, not everyone has that kind of spare time. But don’t worry, we have a solution for you. Go ahead and freeze your cake pops! There are a few ways you can freeze them, so you can decide which is the best method for you.
Freezing Your Cake Pops Before You Decorate:
- Bake your cake pops and set them aside to cool completely.
- Remove the cake pops from the mold and individually wrap each ball in plastic wrap.
- Place the cake balls in a single layer inside a freezer bag, remove the air, and place in the freezer for whenever you’re ready.
To freeze prepared cake pops, a different method is required:
- Bake your cake pops and decorate with chocolate, frosting, and candies.
- Allow cake balls to dry completely, before individually wrapping each ball in wax paper rather than plastic wrap.
- Twist the bottom of the paper around the stick to prevent air from getting in, but they don’t have to be wrapped tightly.
- Once the wax paper is on, wrap each ball with plastic wrap to secure them.
- Place groups of 5 or 10 cake pops into a zip lock bag and place them in a freezer-safe container to avoid being crushed by other objects in the freezer.
How Are Cake Pops Made: By YOU
Luckily, making cake pops doesn’t require a great deal of baking expertise. All you really need is patience and persistence, along with the ability to follow instructions. Let your imagination run free, and keep Angie’s method in mind: the more chocolate, the greater the cake pop.
You don’t need much to begin. To make these quick and easy cake pops, you’ll need:
- Baked cake, prepared (I prefer chocolate)
- Chocolate frosting (home-made or store-bought)
- Sprinkles or candy coating (for dipping)
- Cake pop sticks
Instructions:
1. Add cake to a large bowl and crumble it.
2. Once the cake resembles fine crumbs, add in a little bit of frosting until the cake is moist and can hold a small ball shape.
3. Use a mold or mini ice cream scoop, scoop out two balls worth of cake mixture.
4. Roll the mixture into a tight ball and place it on a plate.
5. Repeat until all of the cake mixture are balls.
6. Melt the chocolate and dip the cake pop sticks into the chocolate and insert the stick into the cake balls
7. Freeze for 15 to 20 minutes.
8. In the meantime, prepare all of your decorating supplies.
9. Melt the remaining chocolate in a large bowl and prepare your decorations.
10. Remove the cake pops from the freezer and carefully dip the cake pops into the chocolate until covered.
11. Let the excess chocolate drip off and add the sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
12. Stick the decorated cake pops into a styrofoam block to finish setting.
13. Place into the freezer for 10 minutes and store in a cool area in an airtight container!
14. Enjoy!
And that my dear readers, is how you make cake pops. I hope you enjoyed reading this guide on the best way to make these edible delights!
Woo-Hoo! You’ve Learned all About Cake Pops!
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Born and raised in her beloved mother city Cape Town, Amy-Paige Cox is a writer, poet and plant mom. A hopeful romantic with a penchant for adventure, she loves exploring the world, all the while documenting her ever-changing perspectives with pen and paper.