Cake Pops with Gingerbread
This delightful cake pop recipe combines the rich aroma of gingerbread with the indulgence of chocolate, creating irresistible treats perfect for any occasion. With a crispy outer shell and a soft, flavorful center, these cake pops are an adventure in every bite. The blending of gingerbread cookies and fresh cheese gives them a unique and festive flair that stands out from traditional cake pops. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. As you prepare them, the scent of baking cake and melting chocolate will fill your kitchen, making the experience even more enjoyable. Both fun to make and eat, these cake pops offer a creative way to transform any ordinary day into something special. They are as wonderful to gift as they are to savor, wishing joy to those around you. With the exciting combination of flavors and textures, these cake pops will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Let's dive into this exciting recipe where creativity takes the lead alongside taste!
Ingredients
For the Cake Pops (makes 27):
- 230g chocolate cake mix (half a packet)
- 70g vegetable oil
- 90ml water
- 150g gingerbread cookies
- 160g fresh cheese
- 40g butter
- 20g powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 200g dark chocolate
- 40g butter
Preparation Time
Total: 100 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare the Cake Base: Combine 230g of chocolate cake mix with 70g vegetable oil and 90ml water. Mix until smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Let the baked cake cool completely in the pan.
- Crumb the Cake: Once cooled, crumble the cake finely into a large mixing bowl.
- Blend Gingerbread: In a blender, pulse 150g of gingerbread cookies until they form fine crumbs.
- Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, use a mixer to whip 160g fresh cheese, 40g butter, 20g powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the gingerbread crumbs and crumbled cake to the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly by hand until well combined.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 27 equal-sized balls by rolling them between your palms.
- Melt Chocolate: Place 200g dark chocolate and 40g butter in a heatproof bowl and melt over a pot of simmering water.
- Insert Sticks: Dip one end of a stick into the melted chocolate and insert it into a cake ball. Repeat with all cake balls and place them in the freezer for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Glaze: Stir the chocolate and butter until a smooth glaze forms. If needed, return it to the simmering water to keep it melted.
- Coat Cake Pops: Dip each cake pop into the chocolate glaze to coat evenly, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Set the Pops: Stand the pops upright in a block of Styrofoam or a similar support to dry and harden.
- Decorate, if Desired: Before the chocolate sets completely, you can decorate them with sprinkles or edible glitter for extra flair.
- Serve: Once fully set, your cake pops are ready to serve. Enjoy these delightful indulgences with family and friends.
Tips
- Substitution: If you can't find fresh cheese, cream cheese is a good alternative.
- Texture Balance: Ensure the cake mixture is not too dry; it should bind well when forming balls.
- Chocolate Coating: Use high-quality chocolate for a smoother finish and richer taste.
- Storage: Store cake pops in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 150 per pop
- Protein: 2g
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 15g
Variations
- Flavor Twist: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth in flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and gingerbread cookies.
- Vegan Option: Substitute fresh cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- Accompany them with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.
- Decorate with colored drizzles to complement holiday themes or events.
Best Places
- Café Fleur - Known for its artistic presentation and delightful desserts. Location: 123 Bakery St, Paris, France.
- Sweet Tooth Café - Offers a variety of creative cake pops. Location: 456 Confection Rd, London, UK.
- Bistro Delight - Famous for its customized cake pop flavors. Location: 789 Dessert Ave, Melbourne, Australia.
- Choco Haven - A chocolate lover's paradise with a variety of dips. Location: 321 Sweets Blvd, New York, USA.
- Pastry Passion - Known for its seasonal flavors and artisanal quality. Location: 654 Pastry Ln, Toronto, Canada.
- Gingerbread House - Excels in gingerbread-flavored desserts. Location: 987 Spice Rd, Berlin, Germany.
- Pops & Drops - Creative takes on classic cake pop recipes. Location: 333 Candy Ct, Tokyo, Japan.
- Sweet Indulgence Café - Welcoming atmosphere with mouth-watering options. Location: 222 Treats Blvd, Rome, Italy.
- Baker's Artistry - Exceptional quality and exquisite taste. Location: 444 Gourmet Ln, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Chocolate Dream Café - Renowned for its rich and creamy chocolate flavors. Location: 555 Cocoa Rd, Amsterdam, Netherlands.