Are you ready to take your party planning and special occasion treats to the next level? Look no further! Cake balls are a crowd-pleaser, and when done right, they can be almost too beautiful to eat. Almost. With their soft, fluffy centers and crunchy exteriors, it’s no wonder why cake balls have become a staple at birthday parties, weddings, baby showers, and more.
But what makes a great cake ball recipe? Is it the flavor combination? The texture? The presentation? In this article, we’ll explore 20 delectable cake ball recipes that cater to every taste and occasion. From classic flavors like chocolate peanut butter and vanilla, to unique combinations like strawberry shortcake and maple bacon, there’s something for everyone.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the best of both worlds – the richness of chocolate and the creaminess of peanut butter. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these cake balls are easy to make and irresistible to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of devil’s food cake mix
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare cake mix according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add cake crumbs to the peanut butter mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Melt chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Dip cake balls into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Place coated cake balls on a wire rack or parchment-lined plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (no baking required)
Red Velvet Cake Balls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your party or gathering with these decadent red velvet cake balls, coated in a sweet and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for snacking or as a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup crushed red velvet cake (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed cake and powdered sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually add the cake mixture to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If using nuts, roll each ball in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and chill.
Lemon Blueberry Cake Balls
Brighten up your day with these bite-sized treats that combine the brightness of lemon and sweetness of blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Fold in lemon juice and blueberries.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each ball.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cookies and Cream Cake Balls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these bite-sized treats that combine the classic flavors of cookies and cream cake with a moist and fluffy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 20-25 cookies)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and milk until smooth.
5. Fold in crushed Oreo cookies.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: About 30 cake balls
Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake Balls
Moist chocolate cake balls infused with the sweet and salty flavors of caramel, perfect for a special treat or gift. These bite-sized treats are surprisingly easy to make and are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of devil’s food cake mix
– 1 cup of whole milk
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup of caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 teaspoon of flaky sea salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Let the cake cool completely before crumbling it into a large bowl.
3. Add the milk, butter, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the cake mixture.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm to the touch.
8. Allow the cake balls to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce and sprinkling with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Funfetti Cake Balls with Vanilla Glaze
A sweet treat that’s perfect for any celebration or snack time! These bite-sized funfetti cake balls are dipped in a rich vanilla glaze, making them irresistible.
Ingredients:
• 1 box of funfetti cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
• Vanilla glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Mix in milk, eggs, and butter until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour batter into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe small balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
Vanilla Glaze:
1. Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Dip cooled cake balls into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with a convenient and easy-to-make ball form. Perfect for parties, snacks, or dessert, these sweet treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in the sliced strawberries.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Serve chilled, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are no-bake and ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Pumpkin Spice Cake Balls
Transform fall flavors into bite-sized treats with these moist and flavorful pumpkin spice cake balls.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, butter, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow cake balls to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Tiramisu-Inspired Cake Balls
Take a bite out of Italy with these creamy, coffee-infused cake balls inspired by the classic dessert Tiramisu. Perfect for a quick snack or party treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups crushed ladyfingers
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crushed ladyfingers and cocoa powder.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, coffee powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the ladyfinger mixture to the cheese mixture; mix until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form cake balls. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None required, as these are no-bake treats!
Coconut Lime Cake Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of cake with the refreshing flavors of coconut and lime, making them perfect for parties or snack time. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious cake balls in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and coconut.
3. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, lime juice, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Pudding Cake Balls
Banana Pudding Cake Balls Recipe Summary: This sweet treat combines moist banana cake with creamy pudding and crunchy chopped nuts, all wrapped up into bite-sized balls of bliss.
Ingredients:
– 1 package banana cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup mashed ripe banana
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 2 tablespoons instant banana pudding mix
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the banana cake mix according to package instructions, using milk, eggs, mashed banana, and vanilla extract.
2. Fold in granulated sugar, chopped nuts, and instant banana pudding mix into the batter.
3. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
4. Allow cake balls to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mint Chocolate Chip Cake Balls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these refreshing Mint Chocolate Chip Cake Balls! Moist and fluffy cake, infused with the sweetness of chocolate chips and the invigorating essence of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add peppermint extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Carrot Cake Balls with Cream Cheese Coating
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treats that combine the warmth of carrot cake with the tanginess of cream cheese. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Cream cheese coating: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine carrots, sugar, and eggs. Stir until smooth.
4. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
8. Allow to cool completely before coating with cream cheese mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oreo-Stuffed Cake Balls
Transform your love of Oreos into a show-stopping dessert with these bite-sized cake balls, stuffed to the brim with creamy Oreo goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed Oreos (about 20-25 cookies)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly to create an indentation for filling.
4. Place a few crushed Oreos in the center of each dough ball. Fold the dough over the filling, and press gently to seal.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow the cake balls to cool completely on the baking sheet.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Cake Balls
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of white chocolate and the tartness of raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white cake mix
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) white chocolate chips
– 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll the mixture into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Dip cooled cake balls into melted white chocolate, then roll in crushed raspberries to coat.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Chocolate Cake Balls
Rich, moist German chocolate cake mixed with sweet coconut and toasted pecans, shaped into bite-sized balls and coated in a velvety chocolate glaze – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 1 box German chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Chocolate glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Allow the cake to cool completely before crumbling it into a large bowl.
3. Add heavy cream, coconut, pecans, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the cake balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Dip each ball into melted chocolate glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Return to the baking sheet and refrigerate until set.
7. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired). Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (cake mix is pre-baked)
Maple Bacon Cake Balls
Maple Bacon Cake Balls: Sweet and Savory Delight
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of maple syrup with the smoky flavor of bacon, creating a unique and irresistible snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cake mix (white or yellow)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix and heavy cream. Mix until just combined.
3. Stir in maple syrup, crumbled bacon, and vanilla extract.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until firm to the touch.
6. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cake Balls
Experience the perfect blend of Japanese green tea and sweet indulgence with these Matcha Green Tea Cake Balls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and matcha powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each ball.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: 20-25 cake balls
Black Forest Cake Balls
Elevate your party game with these bite-sized Black Forest Cake Balls, featuring rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and creamy whipped cream. These indulgent treats are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups cake crumbs (black forest or chocolate)
– 1/4 cup cherry preserves
– 1/4 cup chopped cherries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Stir in cake crumbs, cherry preserves, chopped cherries, and vanilla extract.
4. Cover mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture between your hands.
6. Dip each ball into melted chocolate, then place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes or until set.
8. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Snickerdoodle Cake Balls with Cinnamon Drizzle
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft and chewy cake balls infused with the warm spices of snickerdoodles, topped with a drizzly cinnamon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (15.25 oz) snickerdoodle cake mix
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Cinnamon drizzle (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, softened butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until lightly browned. Allow to cool completely.
Cinnamon Drizzle:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix powdered sugar and softened butter in a small bowl until smooth. Add cinnamon and mix until well combined. Drizzle over cooled cake balls.
Summary
Looking for the perfect cake ball recipe to impress your friends and family? Look no further! This article features 20 delicious cake ball recipes, each with its own unique flavor combination. From classic chocolate peanut butter to fruity lemon blueberry, there’s a cake ball for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a decadent treat or a sweet surprise, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With flavors ranging from salted caramel to matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone in this collection of scrumptious cake balls.
