Looking for a fun, sweet, and Instagram-worthy treat that will steal hearts? These Strawberry Heart Cake Pops are not only adorable but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, bridal showers, or any celebration, these cake pops combine rich, moist strawberry cake with creamy frosting and a crunchy chocolate coating.
Making cake pops at home may seem intimidating, but with the right steps, tips, and tricks, you’ll be able to create a dessert that looks professional while being entirely homemade. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe guarantees smiles and happy taste buds.
Ingredients
To make about 20–25 Strawberry Heart Cake Pops, you’ll need the following:
Cake:
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1 box strawberry cake mix (or homemade strawberry cake, cooled)
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3 large eggs
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1/2 cup vegetable oil
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1 cup water (or milk for extra richness)
Frosting:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups powdered sugar
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1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2–3 tbsp milk (optional, to reach desired consistency)
Coating and Decoration:
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2 cups white or pink candy melts
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Sprinkles, edible glitter, or heart-shaped decorations
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Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
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Parchment paper for cooling
Required Kitchen Tools
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Mixing bowls (large and medium)
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Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
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Baking pan (9×13 inches recommended)
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Heart-shaped cookie cutter (optional, if shaping after baking)
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Microwave-safe bowls for melting candy melts
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Lollipop sticks or skewers
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Styrofoam block or cake pop stand for drying
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Spoon or small cookie scoop
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Bake the Strawberry Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Mix the cake mix, eggs, oil, and water according to package instructions (or homemade recipe).
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Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool completely.
2: Crumble the Cake
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Once cooled, crumble the cake into fine crumbs using your hands or a food processor.
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Place the crumbs in a large mixing bowl.
3: Prepare the Frosting
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Beat the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy.
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Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
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Add milk if necessary to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
4: Mix Cake and Frosting
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Add frosting to cake crumbs a little at a time.
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Mix until the mixture holds together but isn’t overly sticky.
5: Shape into Hearts
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Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1–1.5 inches in diameter).
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Press gently into heart shapes using your hands or a cookie cutter.
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Insert a lollipop stick into each heart.
6: Chill the Cake Pops
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Place the cake pops in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling makes them easier to dip.
7: Coat with Candy Melts
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Melt the candy melts according to package instructions.
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Dip each cake pop into the melted candy, ensuring full coverage.
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Gently tap off excess coating and place on parchment paper or into a styrofoam stand to set.
8: Decorate
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While the coating is still soft, add sprinkles, edible glitter, or heart-shaped decorations.
9: Serve and Enjoy!
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Arrange cake pops on a platter or stand for a festive presentation. These treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Strawberry Heart Cake Pops
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Use Chilled Cake for Easy Shaping – Warm or fresh cake can crumble too easily. Chilling helps the mixture stick together.
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Candy Melts for Smooth Coating – If your candy coating is too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to thin it.
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Avoid Air Bubbles – When dipping cake pops, do not swirl too aggressively to prevent bubbles or cracks.
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Fun Decorations – Personalize with sprinkles, edible glitter, or drizzle chocolate for a professional touch.
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Storage – Cake pops can be frozen for up to a month; just wrap individually in plastic wrap.
Nutritional Value (Approximate per cake pop)
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Calories: 180–220 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 28 g
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Sugar: 18 g
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Fat: 8 g
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Protein: 2 g
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Fiber: 0.5 g
Note: Nutritional values vary based on frosting, cake mix, and decorations.
Why Strawberry Heart Cake Pops Are Perfect for Any Occasion
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Adorable & Instagram-Worthy – Heart shapes are perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or weddings.
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Kid-Friendly – Sweet, fruity, and fun to eat, perfect for parties.
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Customizable – Change frosting, candy melts, or sprinkles to match your theme.
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Easy to Serve – Cake pops are mess-free and portable for gatherings.
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Impress Guests – Homemade treats look professional without requiring advanced baking skills.
Conclusion
If you want a dessert that is both beautiful and delicious, these Strawberry Heart Cake Pops are the perfect choice. Easy to make, fun to decorate, and adored by kids and adults alike, they add a festive touch to any occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch your loved ones’ faces light up with delight.