These cute Strawberry Heart Cake Pops are perfect for sharing! With a sweet strawberry flavor and a fun heart shape, they are sure to bring smiles all around.
Making these pops is super easy—just mix, shape, and dip in chocolate. They also make a great treat for parties! Who can resist a heart-shaped snack, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberry Cake Mix: This is the base of your cake pops. If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can use a homemade strawberry cake recipe or even a box mix from another flavor like vanilla or chocolate and add some chopped strawberries for a fruity touch.
Strawberry Frosting: Store-bought frosting is quick and easy, but homemade frosting can taste fresher. If you’re going dairy-free, consider using coconut cream or a dairy-free frosting alternative.
Candy Melts: These are perfect for coating because they melt smoothly. If you’re in a pinch, chocolate chips can work, but they’re thicker and may require a little more patience to get the right consistency. Use a bit of vegetable shortening to help them melt better.
Sprinkles: Heart-shaped sprinkles are festive, but feel free to use any sprinkles you love! Rainbow sprinkles can add a fun pop, or you can even leave them off for a simpler look.
How Do You Get Smooth Coatings on Cake Pops?
Getting that perfect coat on your cake pops can be tricky, but here are some tips to make it easier:
- Ensure your cake pops are completely cool and set before dipping; this prevents cracking.
- Melt your candy melts slowly, stirring often to avoid burning. The consistency should be smooth—too thick means it won’t coat evenly.
- When dipping, swirl the pop in the coating and lift it out. Gently tap the stick against the bowl to let excess coating fall off.
- If you find the coating thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to thin it out slightly—just a little goes a long way!
These techniques will help you achieve that picture-perfect finish on your cake pops, making them not only delicious but also beautiful!
Strawberry Heart Cake Pops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box: eggs, oil, water)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup strawberry frosting (store-bought or homemade)
For the Coating:
- 1 package white candy melts
- 1 package pink candy melts
For Decoration:
- Heart-shaped sprinkles and other Valentine’s themed sprinkles (red, pink, white)
- Small heart-shaped candies or decorations
- Fresh strawberry tops (optional, for an extra strawberry effect)
- Cake pop sticks
- Non-stick spray or parchment paper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 1.5 hours in total. Plan for around 30 minutes for baking and preparation, 15-20 minutes to set the cake pops in the freezer, plus an additional 30 minutes for melting, coating, and decorating. Perfect for a fun-filled afternoon of baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Cake:
Start by preparing the strawberry cake mix according to the box instructions. Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack or in the pan.
2. Crumble the Cake:
When the cake is completely cool, crumble it into a large bowl by hand until it resembles fine crumbs. Don’t skip this step—making crumbs helps to blend with the frosting!
3. Mix in Frosting:
Add the strawberry frosting to the cake crumbs a little at a time. Mix gently until the mixture holds together nicely and you can shape it into balls without it falling apart. Test the texture with your hands; it should be soft but not sticky.
4. Form Cake Hearts:
Using your hands or a heart-shaped mold, shape the mixture into small heart shapes. Aim for uniformity, so they look cute together!
5. Insert the Sticks:
To help the cake pop sticks stay in, dip the tip of each stick into the melted candy melts and then insert it halfway into each heart-shaped cake pop. This makes them more secure. Then, place the cake pops in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to set.
6. Prepare the Coating:
While the pops are chilling, melt your white and pink candy melts in separate microwave-safe bowls according to the package instructions. Stir until smooth and glossy.
7. Coat the Pops:
Once the cake pops have set, dip each one into the melting candy, ensuring they’re completely covered. Gently tap the stick against the bowl to remove any excess coating. This keeps them looking nice and neat!
8. Decorate:
Before the coating sets, sprinkle your heart-shaped sprinkles or place small heart candies on top of each pop for that extra festive touch.
9. Dry Your Pops:
Carefully stick the coated cake pops upright into a styrofoam block or a cake pop stand to allow them to dry completely. This helps keep their shape.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the pops on a pretty plate and get ready for compliments! These Strawberry Heart Cake Pops are perfect for Valentine’s Day, parties, or just because. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy baking! 🍓❤️
Can I Use a Different Flavor Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While strawberry adds a lovely flavor for Valentine’s Day, you can substitute with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate. Just keep in mind that you might want to adjust the frosting flavor to match!
How Do I Store Leftover Cake Pops?
Store leftover cake pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving!
Can I Use Regular Chocolate Instead of Candy Melts?
Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips! Just melt them slowly, and for smoother coating, consider adding a bit of vegetable shortening. The consistency will be a bit thicker, so take your time with the dipping.
How Can I Make These Cake Pops Dairy-Free?
To make them dairy-free, use a dairy-free cake mix and frosting. For the coating, opt for dairy-free chocolate or candy melts that are specifically labeled as such. Enjoy your delicious treats without any dairy!
