Introduction
As autumn approaches, it’s time to embrace the spirit of the season with a festive treat that is sure to delight both kids and adults. These pumpkin cake pops are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Combining the rich taste of Oreos and cream cheese with vibrant orange candy coating, these poppable snacks will make a perfect addition to any fall gathering or Halloween celebration.
Ingredients
– 1 family-size package of regular Oreos (not double-stuffed)
– 8 ounces of full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– 16 ounces of orange candy melts
– 36 butterscotch chips
– Green icing for decoration
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
36 cake pops
These pumpkin cake pops are a delightful treat for fall gatherings, combining the rich flavor of Oreos with a festive pumpkin appearance. The step-by-step directions make it easy to create these charming desserts that are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and fun presentation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Oreo Mixture:
Place the Oreos in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. Add the softened cream cheese to the crumbs and blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Form the Cake Balls:
Using a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 36 evenly sized balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the Cake Balls:
Refrigerate the tray of cake balls for about 25 minutes to firm them up.
Prepare the Candy Coating:
Melt the orange candy melts according to the package instructions, stirring until smooth.
Insert the Lollipop Sticks:
Dip the end of each lollipop stick into the melted candy, then insert it into a cake ball. Repeat for all cake balls and refrigerate for an additional 5 minutes to set.
Coat the Cake Pops:
Dip each cake pop into the melted candy, ensuring an even coating. Gently tap off any excess coating.
Add the Pumpkin Stems:
While the coating is still wet, place a butterscotch chip on top of each cake pop to resemble a pumpkin stem.
Decorate with Green Icing:
Use the green icing to pipe leaves and vines around the stem for a festive touch.
Set the Cake Pops:
Place the decorated cake pops upright in a Styrofoam block or cake pop stand to allow the coating to set completely.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once set, the pumpkin cake pops are ready to be served.
Notes
Storage:
Store the cake pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
You can experiment with different candy colors or decorations to suit your theme or occasion.
Serving Size:
This recipe yields 36 cake pops, making it perfect for parties, gatherings, or seasonal celebrations.
Make Ahead:
The Oreo mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, then shaped and coated the next day.
Cook techniques
Crumbing Oreos
To achieve fine Oreo crumbs, use a food processor. Process the Oreos in short bursts until they resemble sand. This creates a smooth base for the cake balls.
Combining Ingredients
Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to facilitate smooth blending. Mix it with the Oreo crumbs until fully incorporated for a cohesive texture.
Shaping Cake Balls
Utilize a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop for uniformity when shaping the mixture into balls. This ensures even cooking and a professional appearance.
Chilling the Mixture
Refrigerate the formed cake balls for about 25 minutes. This helps them firm up, making them easier to handle when inserting the sticks and coating with candy melts.
Melted Candy Coating
Melt the orange candy melts carefully according to package instructions. Stir until smooth to avoid any lumps, ensuring an even coating on the cake pops.
Inserting Lollipop Sticks
Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted candy before inserting it into a cake ball. This secures the stick, preventing it from falling out.
Coating Techniques
When dipping the cake pops into the melted candy, rotate to achieve an even coat. Tap gently to remove excess candy and avoid pooling at the base.
Creating Pumpkin Stems
Position a butterscotch chip on top of each cake pop while the coating is still wet. This adds a realistic touch to the pumpkin appearance.
Decorating with Icing
Use green icing to pipe intricate designs, like leaves and vines, around the butterscotch chip. This decoration enhances the pumpkin theme.
Setting the Cake Pops
Place the decorated cake pops upright in a Styrofoam block or cake pop stand to ensure the coating sets properly without smudging.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Using full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor. Low-fat may not blend as smoothly or hold the cake ball shape as well.
Can I substitute other types of candy melts?
Yes, you can use different colored candy melts for various themes or flavors, but ensure they melt smoothly for coating.
How do I store the cake pops?
Keep the cake pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze the cake pops?
Yes, you can freeze uncoated cake balls for up to a month. Coat them after thawing for the best results.
Is it necessary to use lollipop sticks?
No, you can serve the cake balls without sticks if you prefer. Just coat and decorate them as is.
Conclusion
These pumpkin cake pops are not only visually appealing but also bring a delicious combination of flavors that make them perfect for fall festivities. The creamy filling, sweet candy coating, and festive decorations come together to create a delightful treat that is sure to impress your guests. Whether for a Halloween party or a cozy autumn gathering, these cake pops are a fun and tasty addition to your dessert table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Pops
Combine fresh strawberries with melted chocolate for a simple yet elegant treat. Stick a lollipop stick in each strawberry, dip in chocolate, and let set.
Peanut Butter Oreo Truffles
Mix crushed Oreos with peanut butter instead of cream cheese for a rich, nutty flavor. Dip in chocolate for a decadent finish.
Red Velvet Cake Pops
Make a red velvet cake batter, bake, crumble, and mix with cream cheese frosting. Coat in white chocolate to create a festive treat.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cake Pops
Mix crushed chocolate cookies with cream cheese and add mint extract for a refreshing twist. Dip in green candy melts for a pop of color.
Chocolate Coconut Cake Balls
Blend crushed chocolate cookies with cream cheese and shredded coconut. Dip in chocolate and sprinkle with extra coconut for a tropical flavor.
