Pumpkin Cake Pops

Pumpkin Cake Pops are the perfect blend of festive flavors and fun presentation. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but also bring a touch of autumn magic to any gathering. Topped with colorful candy melts, they are great for Thanksgiving parties, fall festivals, or just a cozy night in. The combination of pumpkin spice cake and creamy frosting makes them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can create these delicious treats.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices ensures each bite is bursting with autumn flavors.
• Versatile Treats: Perfect for various occasions, from Halloween to Thanksgiving, or as a sweet addition to any dessert table.
• Fun Presentation: The vibrant candy melts make these cake pops visually appealing, making them a hit at gatherings.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the toppings or colors to fit any theme or celebration!

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your pumpkin cake pops, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these items on hand will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cake pop sticks
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake pop sticks: These sturdy sticks help hold your cake pops together and make them easy to serve.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients smoothly.
• Baking sheet: Use this to cool your cake pops before dipping them in candy melts, ensuring they maintain their shape.

Ingredients

For the Cake Mixture

• 1 box Yellow Cake mix (15 oz)
• 1 can Pumpkin Puree (15 oz)
• 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

For the Frosting

• 4 oz Cream Cheese (softened at room temperature)
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 ½ cup Powdered Sugar

For the Coating

• 12 oz Orange Candy Melts
• 6 oz Chocolate Candy Melts
• 3 Tbsp Vegetable Shortening (divided)

Pumpkin cake pops make a festive treat packed with pumpkin spiced cake and cream cheese frosting. It is super easy and topped with candy melts.

How to Make Pumpkin Cake Pops

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Mixture

1. Preheat your oven according to the yellow cake mix box instructions.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the mixture into a greased baking sheet.
2. Bake according to package instructions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In another mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until creamy.
2. Once the cake is cool, crumble it into large pieces in a separate bowl.

Step 4: Combine Cake Crumbles and Frosting

1. Gradually add the cream cheese frosting to the crumbled cake.
2. Mix until fully incorporated; you should achieve a dough-like consistency.

Step 5: Shape and Chill Cake Pops

1. Roll small portions of the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 6: Coat with Candy Melts

1. Melt orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon of vegetable shortening until smooth.
2. Dip each chilled cake ball into the melted candy coating using a stick for easy handling.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

1. Allow excess coating to drip back into the bowl before placing them upright in foam or styrofoam blocks.
2. Optional: Melt chocolate candy melts similarly and drizzle over the hardened orange coating for added flair.

Now you have delicious pumpkin cake pops ready to enjoy! Perfectly festive for any occasion!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake Pops

Pumpkin cake pops are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a fun dessert, these cake pops can be served in various creative ways.

Festive Platter

• Arrange your pumpkin cake pops on a colorful platter. This adds a vibrant touch to your dessert table and makes them easy to grab.

Individual Treat Bags

• Place each pumpkin cake pop in a clear treat bag and tie it with a ribbon. This makes for a cute party favor that guests can take home.

Halloween-Themed Display

• Use spooky decorations like mini pumpkins or ghosts around your cake pops. This is ideal for Halloween parties and will delight both kids and adults.

Thanksgiving Dessert Table

• Include the pumpkin cake pops as part of your Thanksgiving spread. Their festive colors fit perfectly with the autumn theme and complement other desserts.

Birthday Party Treats

• Customize the cake pops with colorful sprinkles or themed decorations to match the birthday theme. This adds a personal touch to your celebration.

Seasonal Gift Idea

• Package your pumpkin cake pops in decorative boxes as homemade gifts during the fall season. They make delicious gifts for friends and family.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake Pops

To ensure your pumpkin cake pops turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure that butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Don’t overbake the cake – Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to dry cake pops.
• Chill before dipping – Refrigerate the formed balls before dipping them in candy melts to maintain their shape.
• Melt candy melts carefully – Use a microwave in short intervals or a double boiler to prevent overheating the candy melts.
• Experiment with decoration – Feel free to use different colors of candy melts or add sprinkles on top for extra flair.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cake pops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake Pops

Pumpkin cake pops can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some delicious options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider – A warm drink that complements the spices in pumpkin cake pops, perfect for fall gatherings.
2. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts – The savory flavor balances the sweetness of the dessert, making it an excellent pairing.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness matches well with pumpkin treats while adding nutritional value.
4. Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses provides a savory contrast that enhances the overall flavor experience.
5. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with tangy dressing refreshes your palate between bites of sweet treats.
6. Pumpkin Soup – For true pumpkin lovers, serving this warm soup alongside will create a delightful pumpkin feast.
7. Candied Pecans – Their crunchy texture and sweetness add an enjoyable element when served alongside soft cake pops.
8. Chocolate Fondue – For those who love chocolate, offering fondue allows guests to dip their cake pops for extra indulgence.

These pairings will elevate your experience with pumpkin cake pops, making them even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cake pops can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can lead to lumpy frosting. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth blend.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your cake pops dense. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the cake mixture can result in soft and messy pops. Always refrigerate the formed balls before coating.
• Not using enough candy melts: Underestimating the amount of coating can leave your pops bare. Use enough candy melts to cover each pop thoroughly.
• Ignoring dipping techniques: Not dipping quickly can lead to uneven coatings. Dip and swirl swiftly for an even layer.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin cake pops in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep them in a single layer to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake Pops

• Freeze pumpkin cake pops in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake Pops

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one pop at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a pan on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each pop for a few minutes until just heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about pumpkin cake pops:

What are Pumpkin Cake Pops?

Pumpkin cake pops are bite-sized treats made from pumpkin spiced cake mixed with cream cheese frosting, coated in candy melts.

Can I use different flavors?

Yes! You can customize your cake pops by using chocolate or vanilla cake mix instead of yellow.

How do I decorate my Pumpkin Cake Pops?

You can sprinkle crushed nuts or colored sprinkles on top after dipping them in candy melts for added flair.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time, then coat them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin cake pops are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any fall gathering or celebration. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavors to create your unique version. Enjoy making this cozy treat!