Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my pantry, the vibrant colors of candy melts caught my eye, sparking a wave of nostalgia for festive treats. Enter Christmas Cakesicles, the playful twist on traditional cake pops that seems to bring a sprinkle of magic to every celebration. These charming popsicles are not just delicious—they’re quick to make and perfect for sharing, whether at holiday gatherings or as delightful homemade gifts. With their moist, cake-like interior wrapped in glossy chocolate, they offer a satisfying bite that the whole family will adore. Plus, they can easily be transformed into gluten-free or vegan options, ensuring everyone can indulge in this festive joy. Curious about how to whip up a batch of these delightful holiday treats? Let’s get started! Why Make Christmas Cakesicles? Irresistible festive fun: Christmas Cakesicles are not just delicious treats; they are a joy to make, bringing families together during the holidays. Customizable for everyone: Easily swap ingredients for vegan or gluten-free options, making them accessible to all your guests. Visual delight: The bright colors of candy melts make these popsicles as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate, perfect for impressing at holiday parties. Quick to prepare: With simple steps, these treats fit seamlessly into your busy holiday schedule. Satisfying desserts: Each bite delivers a moist, cake-like interior coated in rich chocolate, satisfying cravings for both cake and candy. Giftable goodness: Whether arranged on a festive platter or packed in a decorative tin, these cakesicles make sweet homemade gifts for everyone on your list! Christmas Cakesicles Ingredients For the Cake Pop Dough • Crumpled Cake – Use any leftover cake, as it’s essential for forming a moist structure. • Frosting – Mix in enough frosting to create a dough that’s moist but not overly wet; think of it as the glue that holds everything together! For the Coating • Colored Candy Melts – 1/4 cup each of white, red, and green for that festive touch; chocolate chips can substitute for traditional flavors if desired. • Vegetable Oil, Coconut Oil, or Paramount Crystals – Add to your candy melts to ensure a smooth and even coating. For Assembly • Popsicle Sticks – Choose wooden or paper sticks for easy handling while enjoying your Christmas Cakesicles. • Ice Cream Silicone Molds – Perfect for achieving that delightful cakesicle shape while ensuring uniformity. For Decoration • Sprinkles – Fun and festive, these can be swapped with crushed candy canes or edible glitter to enhance the joyful appeal. • Piping Bags – Optional but highly useful for adding those perfect decorative details. For Setting • Parchment-lined Baking Sheets – These are a must for hassle-free cleanup and for laying out your cakesicles to set beautifully. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cakesicles Step 1: Prepare Dough Begin by crumbling leftover cooled cake into a large mixing bowl. Add enough frosting to create a moist, dough-like consistency that holds together without being overly wet; mix until fully incorporated. This cake pop dough is the foundation of your Christmas Cakesicles, so ensure it has a good balance for shaping. Step 2: Melt Candy Coating Next, melt your first color of candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-30 second intervals at medium power, stirring in between until completely smooth. If the mixture appears too thick, stir in a little vegetable or coconut oil to achieve a sleek, pourable consistency that will coat your popsicles beautifully. Step 3: Coat Molds Pour the melted candy coating into the ice cream silicone molds, using a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly along the sides and bottom. Aim for a layer that is smooth and uniform, about a quarter-inch thick. Place the molds in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes, until the coating firms up and appears glossy. Step 4: Insert Sticks Once the candy coating has hardened, carefully remove the molds from the freezer. Gently press popsicle sticks into the center of each mold, ensuring they stand upright in the candy coating. This step is crucial for creating the structure of your Christmas Cakesicles, so take care not to disturb the coating. Step 5: Freeze Return the molds to the freezer and let them sit flat for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the sticks to secure fully and the coating to set without cracking. You’ll know it’s ready when the coating feels firm to the touch but is still slightly tacky, ready for the cake dough to join it. Step 6: Add Dough Using a scoop, fill each mold with the cake pop dough, pressing gently to avoid breaking the candy coating. Pack the dough in just below the edge, creating an even surface to seal later. This filling transforms the molds into delicious Christmas Cakesicles, blending the flavors perfectly. Step 7: Seal and Freeze Cover the top of each filled mold with the remaining melted candy coating, smoothing it out while cleaning any excess from the edges. Return the molds to the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the chocolate is fully set and forms a firm seal over the cake pop dough. Step 8: Unmold Carefully peel the silicone molds away from the cakesicles, starting at the edges and working your way in. Take your time to ensure that the Christmas Cakesicles release smoothly without sticking or breaking. You’ll be left with beautifully shaped treats ready for decoration. Step 9: Decorate Once unmolded, melt additional candy coating if desired and use piping bags to create drizzles over each Christmas Cakesicle. Sprinkle with festive decorations such as sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or edible glitter for an extra touch. This final step brings your delicious treats to life, making them as appealing as they are tasty. What to Serve with Christmas Cakesicles? Looking to set the stage for a wonderful holiday spread? These joyous treats bring warmth and sweetness that pairs beautifully with various festive sides. Creamy Hot Chocolate: Cozy and rich, this classic drink complements the sweet, chocolatey goodness of cakesicles, making every bite feel like a hug in a mug. The warmth balances the cold treat, creating a delightful contrast. Spiced Sugar Cookies: Soft and buttery, these cookies bring a nostalgic touch to the dessert table. Their subtle spice enhances the festive holiday spirit, making them a perfect companion to the colorful cakesicles. Peppermint Bark: With its crunchy texture and refreshing minty flavor, peppermint bark offers a delightful contrast to the cakesicles. The combination of chocolate and mint will have everyone reaching for more. Fresh Fruit Platter: Bright and refreshing, a selection of seasonal fruits like strawberries, oranges, and grapes provides a light, refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the cakesicles, adding a burst of color to your spread. Holiday Punch: This sparkling drink, whether spiked or non-alcoholic, adds a festive flair to any gathering. The bubbly sweetness pairs wonderfully with the cakesicles, making for a cheerful indulgence. Gingerbread Men Cookies: These adorable cookies not only add to the holiday theme but their spiced flavor harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of Christmas Cakesicles, drawing everyone back for a second helping. Incorporate these delightful pairings for a festive celebration that resonates with taste, texture, and holiday spirit. Enjoy creating memories as sweet as your treats! Expert Tips for Christmas Cakesicles Choose the Right Cake: Ensure your leftover cake is moist; dry cake can lead to crumbling and a less enjoyable texture in your Christmas Cakesicles. Melt Carefully: Heat candy melts in short intervals to prevent burning. Stirring in between helps achieve a smooth, glossy finish for coating your cakesicles. Avoid Overfilling: When adding the cake dough to the molds, don’t overpack it. Leaving a little space at the top ensures a perfect seal with the remaining chocolate layer. Use Silicone Molds: Opting for silicone molds allows for easier release. Plastic molds may not yield the same smooth finish and can lead to broken cakesicles. Check the Freeze Time: Make sure each layer is fully set before adding the next. This will prevent cracking and ensure that your beautiful Christmas Cakesicles hold their shape. Make Ahead Options These Christmas Cakesicles are perfect for busy holiday cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cake pop dough and freeze it up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. Additionally, melted candy coating can be made 24 hours ahead and kept in the refrigerator—just reheat before use. When it’s time to serve, simply fill your prepared molds with the frozen dough, seal with the coating, and allow to set for about 10 minutes in the freezer. This way, you’ll have delicious, festive treats ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort! Christmas Cakesicles Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make these delightful treats your own with a few simple tweaks; every bite is an opportunity for creativity! Vegan Option: Substitute regular cake with a vegan cake mix and use vegan frosting for a plant-based delight. This ensures everyone can enjoy them during the holidays! Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free cake mix to create treats that cater to gluten-sensitive friends. The flavors remain intact while accommodating their dietary needs. Flavor Infusion: Try using flavored cake mixes like chocolate or pumpkin spice for an exciting twist! Just imagine the seasonal aromas wafting through your kitchen. Candy Melt Alternatives: For a deeper flavor, use dark chocolate or butterscotch chips instead of candy melts. This adds a rich complexity to your cakesicles that is simply irresistible. Texture Twist with Add-ins: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into your cake dough before molding. This adds delightful surprise bites of texture! Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile that enhances the festive spirit. It’s all about cozy aromas during the holidays! Ultimate Decadence: Drizzle with caramel sauce before sprinkling with crushed nuts. This elevates your Christmas Cakesicles to a whole new level of indulgence. Festive Decoration: Swap regular sprinkles for crushed candy canes or edible glitter for an even more cheerful, holiday-inspired finish that sparkles with joy! Each variation is a chance to personalize your Christmas Cakesicles, making them the perfect centerpiece for your holiday celebrations and ensuring that every treat matches your loved ones’ tastes. If you’re looking for more ways to add flavor and fun, consider checking out these delightful ideas for other holiday desserts! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cakesicles Airtight Container: Store your Christmas Cakesicles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful. Refrigerator: For longer shelf life, refrigerate the cakesicles in the same airtight container, where they can last up to 2 weeks without losing their delightful taste. Freezer: To store them longer, wrap each cakesicle in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Christmas Cakesicles, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Christmas Cakesicles Recipe FAQs What type of cake is best for making Christmas Cakesicles? Absolutely! For the best results, use a moist cake, whether it’s leftover cake or freshly baked. I recommend avoiding dry cakes, as they can crumble and yield a less enjoyable texture. If you’re considering gluten-free options, there are many delicious gluten-free cake mixes available that work perfectly! How can I store my Christmas Cakesicles? You can store your Christmas Cakesicles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them in the same container for up to 2 weeks. For even longer storage, they can be frozen! Be sure to wrap each cakesicle in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Can I freeze Christmas Cakesicles? If so, how? Yes, freezing is a great way to preserve your Christmas Cakesicles! To freeze, wrap each cakesicle tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They’ll taste just as delightful as when you first made them! What should I do if my candy coating becomes too thick? Very! If your candy coating is too thick, simply add a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to the melted candy melts. Stir well until smooth and pourable. Heating the mixture in 20-30 second intervals in the microwave will also help maintain a nice, fluid consistency. Are Christmas Cakesicles suitable for people with allergies? It’s good to be mindful of allergies! For gluten-sensitive guests, you can use gluten-free cake mix. Additionally, for vegan adaptations, opt for vegan cake and frosting. Always check the labels on the candy melts and sprinkles to ensure they’re free of common allergens like nuts or dairy, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats! Christmas Cakesicles That Ignite Your Holiday Spirit These Christmas Cakesicles are delightful festive treats that bring joy and holiday spirit to every celebration, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsFreeze Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 cakesiclesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake Pop Dough1 cake Crumpled Cake Use any leftover cake.1 cup Frosting Mix in enough to create a moist dough.For the Coating0.25 cup Colored Candy Melts 1/4 cup each of white, red, and green.1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil or Coconut Oil Add to ensure a smooth coating.For Assembly12 sticks Popsicle Sticks Choose wooden or paper sticks.1 set Ice Cream Silicone Molds For achieving cakesicle shape.For Decoration1 cup Sprinkles Or crushed candy canes or edible glitter.Piping Bags Optional but useful for decoration.For Setting1 sheet Parchment Paper For hassle-free cleanup. Equipment microwavelarge mixing bowlIce Cream Silicone MoldsSpoon or SpatulaPiping BagsParchment-lined Baking Sheets Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas CakesiclesBegin by crumbling leftover cooled cake into a large mixing bowl. Add enough frosting to create a moist, dough-like consistency that holds together.Melt your first color of candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-30 second intervals and stirring in between until smooth.Pour the melted candy coating into the ice cream silicone molds, spreading it evenly along the sides and bottom to create a uniform layer.Once the candy coating has hardened, gently press popsicle sticks into the center of each mold.Return the molds to the freezer for another 10-15 minutes to let the sticks secure and the coating to set.Fill each mold with the cake pop dough, pressing gently to avoid breaking the candy coating.Cover the top of each filled mold with the remaining melted candy coating, smoothing it out.Carefully peel the silicone molds away from the cakesicles after they are firm.Finally, decorate the unmolded cakesicles with additional melted candy coating and festive decorations. Nutrition Serving: 1cakesicleCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 40mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gCalcium: 2mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure to use moist leftover cake for best texture. Melt candy melts carefully to avoid burning. Use silicone molds for easy release and check freeze times for each layer. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
