My homemade lemon cake pops recipe with my children has become a cherished tradition in our kitchen. The sweet scent of lemon fills the air as we measure out the ingredients together, with the kids eagerly cracking eggs and mixing the batter.
Their laughter fills the room as we roll the cake into small balls, and their excitement grows when it’s time to dip the pops into the melted white chocolate.
The sticky mess and smiles are worth every second! We add colorful sprinkles, and the kitchen looks like a rainbow explosion of joy. Watching my children’s faces light up when they taste their creations is priceless.
These lemon cake pops recipe not only bring us closer as a family but also create sweet memories that will last a lifetime. Baking with my kids is truly a moment of happiness and love.
How To Make Lemon Cake Pops Recipe
Recipe Overview
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes (for cake)
Total time: 55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Yield: About 24 cake pops
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking pan (or as per cake mix box instructions)
- Electric mixer (optional, but helps)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Melting bowl (for chocolate)
- Cake pop sticks or lollipop sticks
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Small pot or microwave-safe dish (for thinning chocolate)
- Wire rack or parchment paper for cooling
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box of lemon cake mix (or a homemade lemon cake recipe)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water (or as per the instructions on the cake mix box)
For the Cake Pops:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or freshly squeezed lemon)
- 8 oz white chocolate or candy melts
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for thinning the chocolate)
- 12 oz ready-made lemon frosting (340 grams or approximately ¾ of a 16-ounce container)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box (usually around 350°F/175°C).
2. Make the Cake:
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box (usually add eggs, oil, and water). If you’re using homemade lemon cake, follow your specific recipe.
3. Bake the Cake:
Pour the prepared cake batter into a greased or lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake according to the time given on the cake mix box (around 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean). Allow the cake to cool completely.
4. Prepare Cake Pops:
Once the cake has cooled, crumble it into small pieces using your hands or a fork in a large mixing bowl. Add ¾ of the container of lemon frosting and mix well until the cake crumbs are fully coated and form a dough-like consistency.
5. Form Cake Balls:
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the cake mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Continue to shape the rest of the mixture into balls.
6. Dip Sticks in Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate or candy melts according to package instructions. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate to thin it out and make it easier to coat the cake pops.
7. Insert the Sticks:
Dip the end of each cake pop stick into the melted chocolate and then insert it about halfway into each cake ball. This helps the stick stay in place when you dip the pops later. Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes.
8. Coat the Cake Pops:
Once the sticks are secure, dip each cake pop into the melted white chocolate, coating them completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the cake pop upright on a parchment-lined tray or stand.
9. Let the Chocolate Set:
Allow the cake pops to cool completely and the chocolate to harden. You can speed up this process by placing them in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.
10. Decorate (Optional):
If desired, decorate your cake pops with sprinkles, extra powdered sugar, or any additional toppings you like.
11. Serve & Enjoy!
Once the chocolate has hardened and the cake pops are set, serve and enjoy your delicious homemade lemon cake pops!
Special Notes
For a more intense lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the cake batter.
You can store leftover cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for longer.
To make these cake pops ahead of time, freeze the uncoated cake pops and dip them when ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cake Pops Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Lemon Cake Pops recipe because it’s not only easy to make but also bursting with bright, refreshing flavor!
From the tangy lemon cake to the sweet, smooth chocolate coating, each bite is a little piece of joy. My personal advice is to take your time and get creative with the decorations whether it’s adding sprinkles, a drizzle of glaze, or even mixing in a few blueberries, these pops are totally customizable.
Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re making them for a party or a fun family baking session, these cake pops will bring smiles to everyone’s face!
Best Variations
1. Lemon Blueberry Cake Pops:
Add fresh or dried blueberries to the cake mixture for a burst of fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon zest. The combination of sweet blueberries and tangy lemon will make these cake pops extra special.
2. Lemon Coconut Cake Pops:
Mix in shredded coconut into the cake batter or roll the finished cake pops in coconut flakes. This adds a tropical twist and a delicious texture to the cake pops.
3. Lemon Poppy Seed Cake Pops:
Incorporate poppy seeds into the cake batter for a slight crunch and a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the lemon. These cake pops are both visually appealing and delicious.
4. Lemon Raspberry Cake Pops:
Swirl in raspberry puree or add fresh raspberries to the cake mixture to create a vibrant color contrast and a sweet-tart flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon.
5. Lemon Lavender Cake Pops:
Infuse the cake mix with culinary lavender for a fragrant, floral note that enhances the lemony taste. This variation is ideal for a more elegant or sophisticated treat, perfect for bridal showers or tea parties.
What Is The Trick To Making Cake Pops?
The trick to making perfect cake pops lies in achieving the right consistency for the cake mixture and properly chilling the cake balls before dipping.
Ensure your cake crumbs are fine and well-mixed with the frosting to form a dough-like texture that holds its shape.
Chilling the cake balls for at least an hour helps them firm up, making it easier to insert the sticks and dip them in the coating without falling apart.
What Is The Secret To Coating Cake Pops?
The secret to a smooth and even coating on cake pops is using the right type of chocolate or candy melts and maintaining the correct temperature.
Melt the coating in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure it is smooth and lump-free. Dip the cake pops swiftly and allow excess coating to drip off by gently tapping the stick on the edge of the bowl.
This prevents thick and uneven layers, resulting in a professional finish.
What Does Soda Pop Do In Cake?
Soda pop acts as a leavening agent in cake recipes, helping the batter rise and become light and fluffy. The carbonation in soda pop introduces bubbles into the batter, which expand during baking, creating a tender and airy texture.
Additionally, soda pop can add a subtle flavor and sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the cake.
Storing Your Lemon Cake Pops
To store your Lemon Cake Pops recipe, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
If storing them for a longer period, freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Before serving, allow them to thaw at room temperature.
Proper storage ensures your cake pops remain flavorful and delicious.
Conclusion
Lemon Cake Pops Recipe are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. Their combination of tangy lemon cake and sweet coating makes them a hit at parties, celebrations, or as a simple indulgence.
The laughter, creativity, and teamwork in the kitchen have made every step of the process memorable.
Not only do we get to indulge in delicious treats, but we also create lasting memories together. The joy on my children’s faces as they enjoy their creations reminds me of the simple pleasures of baking as a family.
It’s moments like Lemon Cake Pops Recipe that make life sweeter and more meaningful. Every bite of those Lemon Cake Pops Recipe is a reminder of the love, laughter, and fun we shared in the kitchen.
More Delicious Lemon Recipes
Nothing Bundt Cake Lemon Recipe
Lemon Cake Pops Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking pan (or as per cake mix box instructions)
- Electric mixer (optional, but helps)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Melting bowl (for chocolate)
- Cake pop sticks or lollipop sticks
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Small pot or microwave-safe dish (for thinning chocolate)
- Wire rack or parchment paper for cooling
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box of lemon cake mix or a homemade lemon cake recipe
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water or as per the instructions on the cake mix box
For the Cake Pops:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or freshly squeezed lemon
- 8 oz white chocolate or candy melts
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for thinning the chocolate
- 12 oz ready-made lemon frosting 340 grams or approximately ¾ of a 16-ounce container
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box (usually around 350°F/175°C).
Make the Cake:
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box (usually add eggs, oil, and water). If you’re using homemade lemon cake, follow your specific recipe.
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the prepared cake batter into a greased or lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake according to the time given on the cake mix box (around 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean). Allow the cake to cool completely.
Prepare Cake Pops:
- Once the cake has cooled, crumble it into small pieces using your hands or a fork in a large mixing bowl. Add ¾ of the container of lemon frosting and mix well until the cake crumbs are fully coated and form a dough-like consistency.
Form Cake Balls:
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the cake mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Continue to shape the rest of the mixture into balls.
Dip Sticks in Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate or candy melts according to package instructions. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate to thin it out and make it easier to coat the cake pops.
Insert the Sticks:
- Dip the end of each cake pop stick into the melted chocolate and then insert it about halfway into each cake ball. This helps the stick stay in place when you dip the pops later. Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes.
Coat the Cake Pops:
- Once the sticks are secure, dip each cake pop into the melted white chocolate, coating them completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the cake pop upright on a parchment-lined tray or stand.
Let the Chocolate Set:
- Allow the cake pops to cool completely and the chocolate to harden. You can speed up this process by placing them in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.
Decorate (Optional):
- If desired, decorate your cake pops with sprinkles, extra powdered sugar, or any additional toppings you like.
Serve & Enjoy!
- Once the chocolate has hardened and the cake pops are set, serve and enjoy your delicious homemade lemon cake pops!