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college graduation cake pops recipe

College Graduation Cake Pops

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
These cake pops are the perfect blend of elegance and fun, ideal for celebrating your college graduation in style.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 pops
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Baking Sheet lined with parchment paper
  • 1 lollipop sticks

Ingredients
  

Cake Base

  • 1 box cake mix vanilla or chocolate
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water

Binding and Coating

  • 1/2 cup frosting vanilla or chocolate
  • 12 oz candy melts any color
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Decorations

  • Sprinkles edible glitter, or fondant decorations

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, using the eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
  • Once the cake is cooled, crumble it into fine crumbs in a large mixing bowl. Make sure there are no large chunks remaining, as this will ensure a smooth texture for your cake pops.
  • Add the frosting to the cake crumbs a spoonful at a time. Mix until the crumbs are moist and can hold together when you squeeze a small amount in your hand.
  • Use a small scoop to portion out the cake mixture, rolling each portion into a smooth ball. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Insert a lollipop stick into each ball, pressing gently to secure. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  • While the cake pops are chilling, melt the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl according to the package instructions. Stir in the vegetable oil to achieve a smooth and glossy consistency.
  • Dip each cake pop into the melted candy, ensuring an even coat. Gently tap off any excess coating and place the pops upright on the baking sheet to set.
  • Before the coating sets completely, decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or fondant shapes. Allow the pops to set completely at room temperature.

Serving

  • Arrange the cake pops on a decorative stand or in a jar filled with colored beads for an elegant presentation on your dessert table.

Storage

  • Keep the cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If storing longer, wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure candy melts are smooth by adding vegetable oil.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use any flavor of cake mix and frosting you prefer.
How to Serve: Display on a tiered stand for an elegant look.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare cake base a day ahead for easy assembly.
Keyword elegant dessert ideas, graduation cake pops, graduation celebration treats