Grinch Cake Pops are perfect for holiday parties, gift boxes, or as a fun activity to make with kids. They’re customizable, eye-catching, and always a hit thanks to their sweet, rich flavor and cute design. Whether you’re a fan of the Grinch or just love themed desserts, these cake pops bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Baked cake (any flavor: vanilla, chocolate, red velvet, etc.)
Frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Green candy melts
Lollipop sticks
Red heart sprinkles or fondant hearts
Optional: vegetable shortening (to thin the candy melts if needed)
Directions
Crumble the cooled cake into a large bowl until it becomes fine crumbs.
Add a small amount of frosting and mix until the mixture holds together when pressed (don’t overdo the frosting).
Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Chill in the freezer for 15–20 minutes or in the fridge for 1 hour until firm.
Melt the green candy melts according to package instructions. Add a small amount of shortening if needed to thin.
Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted candy, then insert it halfway into each cake ball.
Dip each cake pop into the melted candy to fully coat, gently tapping off the excess.
While the coating is still wet, press a red heart sprinkle onto each pop.
Stand the cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or cake pop stand to set.
Allow to cool and harden completely before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 cake pops. Prep time: 30 minutes Chill time: 30–60 minutes Decorating time: 20 minutes Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes (plus cooling)
Variations
Flavor Variety: Try red velvet for a fun color contrast inside, or peppermint chocolate for a festive twist.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cake and frosting.
Decorative Touch: Use edible glitter or drizzle with white chocolate for added flair.
Mini Grinch Faces: Use edible markers to draw eyes and a mischievous smile.
Stuffed Centers: Insert a small candy or chocolate chip inside for a surprise center.
Storage/Reheating
Store cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To freeze, wrap each pop in plastic wrap and store in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Do not reheat—cake pops are meant to be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.
FAQs
Can I make cake pops without frosting?
Frosting is necessary to bind the cake crumbs together, but you can use cream cheese, Nutella, or a thick jam as alternatives.
What kind of cake works best?
Any flavor works, but a moist cake holds together best. Boxed mixes are fine too.
Can I use white chocolate instead of candy melts?
Yes, but candy melts are easier to work with and come pre-colored. If using white chocolate, add oil-based green food coloring.
Why are my cake pops falling off the sticks?
They may be too heavy, too warm, or not chilled enough. Make sure they are firm before dipping.
How do I keep the coating smooth?
Thin the candy melts with a bit of vegetable shortening and dip in one smooth motion without over-handling.
Can I decorate them differently?
Absolutely! You can add festive sprinkles, colored sugar, or pipe little Grinch faces for more detail.
Do I need a cake pop stand?
A block of styrofoam or an empty egg carton turned upside down works just as well.
Can I use leftover cake?
Yes, leftover cake is perfect for this recipe—just make sure it’s not too dry.
Can kids help make these?
Yes, kids can help roll the balls, dip in coating, and add the heart decorations—just supervise the candy melting.
Are Grinch cake pops good for gifting?
Yes, wrap them individually in treat bags and tie with ribbon for a festive, portable gift.
Conclusion
Grinch Cake Pops are a delightful, eye-catching holiday treat that combines creativity with sweet flavor. Easy to make and fun to decorate, these pops are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or giving edible gifts, these little green cuties will steal the show—just like the Grinch himself.
Grinch Cake Pops are festive, bite-sized treats featuring a moist cake center, coated in green candy melts, and topped with a signature red heart. These whimsical pops are perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or baking fun with kids.
Ingredients
1 baked cake (any flavor, such as vanilla, chocolate, or red velvet)
Crumble the cooled cake into fine crumbs in a large bowl.
Add frosting gradually and mix until the dough holds together when pressed. Don’t overmix.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill in the freezer for 15–20 minutes or in the fridge for 1 hour until firm.
Melt green candy melts according to package instructions. Add shortening if needed for a smooth consistency.
Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into melted candy and insert halfway into each cake ball.
Dip the cake pops into the candy coating, fully covering each one. Gently tap off excess coating.
Immediately press a red heart sprinkle onto each pop while the coating is still wet.
Stand cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or cake pop stand and let set completely.
Notes
Use boxed cake mix or leftover cake for convenience.Red velvet cake adds a festive color contrast inside.Substitute frosting with cream cheese, Nutella, or thick jam for variety.Use white chocolate with oil-based green food coloring if candy melts are unavailable.Store in the fridge or wrap individually for holiday gifts.