Indulge in the perfect bite-sized treat with these irresistible Homemade Strawberry Cake Balls. Crafted from a moist, homemade strawberry cake and generously enrobed in a smooth white chocolate almond bark, these delightful confections are a sweet sensation for any occasion – especially for your Valentine!
Homemade Strawberry Cake Balls: A Sweet Indulgence
Dive into the world of delightful desserts with our recipe for Strawberry Cake Balls, a charming and incredibly delicious treat that will captivate your taste buds. These scrumptious bites are a harmonious blend of vibrant fruity flavor from fresh strawberries and an indulgent, rich texture. Each cake ball begins with a tender, moist homemade strawberry cake, infused with natural fruit goodness. Once the cake is baked to perfection and crumbled, it’s mixed with creamy softened cream cheese, forming a delectable, truffle-like consistency. The grand finale involves coating each meticulously rolled ball in a luxurious white chocolate or almond bark mixture, creating a firm, sweet shell that perfectly complements the soft interior. Whether you’re planning a sophisticated party, searching for a charming homemade gift, or simply craving a delightful dessert for yourself, these Strawberry Cake Ball Truffles are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.
Why These Strawberry Cake Balls Will Be Your New Favorite
What makes these Strawberry Cake Balls stand out from other desserts? It’s their unique combination of freshness, richness, and effortless charm. Unlike store-bought treats, crafting these at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a truly exceptional flavor experience. The use of real fresh strawberries, combined with a touch of strawberry Jell-O powder, creates an intensely authentic strawberry flavor that’s both sweet and tangy. The texture is equally remarkable: a melt-in-your-mouth cake interior contrasted with the satisfying snap of a chocolate coating. They are visually appealing, making them fantastic for dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or as thoughtful, edible gifts. Plus, the process, while detailed, is incredibly rewarding, turning simple ingredients into a gourmet-level confection that everyone will adore.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Strawberry Cake Balls
Creating these delightful strawberry cake balls begins with a carefully selected list of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Understanding each component ensures your homemade treat is nothing short of spectacular.
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of our recipe! Always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness. Wash them thoroughly and remove the stems before chopping. We recommend against using frozen strawberries, as their higher moisture content can alter the cake batter’s consistency, potentially leading to a denser, less desirable cake texture. While some adventurous bakers might try drying them meticulously after defrosting, fresh berries offer an unparalleled vibrant taste and consistent result.
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our moist cake. Accurate measurement is key here. Avoid scooping directly from the flour bag or packing it into the measuring cup, as this can lead to an excess of flour, resulting in a dry, crumbly cake. Instead, gently spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with the flat edge of a knife. This technique ensures a light and tender crumb.
- Strawberry Jell-O Powder: This secret ingredient is a game-changer! It not only amplifies the natural strawberry flavor, giving it an extra “punch,” but also enhances the cake’s beautiful pink hue and adds a touch of sweetness. It’s an easy way to ensure a robust strawberry presence in every bite.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for richness and tenderness in the cake. It’s crucial for the butter to be softened to room temperature before mixing. This allows it to cream properly with sugar, incorporating air and creating a light, fluffy batter. If you forget to take your butter out in time, don’t worry! There are quick methods to soften butter without melting it.
- Large Eggs: Like butter, room temperature eggs emulsify more easily with other ingredients, leading to a smoother, more uniform cake batter. While not strictly necessary, allowing them to warm up slightly can improve the overall texture of your cake.
- Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the strawberry notes beautifully. For an even more intense strawberry experience, you can substitute vanilla extract with strawberry extract to truly boost the fruity essence.
- Cream Cheese: The binder that transforms our crumbled cake into perfectly pliable cake balls. Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this makes it incredibly easy to mix evenly with the cake crumbs, creating a smooth, cohesive mixture that rolls effortlessly into balls. Quick softening tips are available if you’re in a pinch.
- Almond Bark or White Chocolate Candy Melts: The final coating that gives these cake balls their signature finish. Both options provide a smooth, shiny shell that sets quickly. Almond bark is often easier to work with as it melts smoothly and consistently. White chocolate candy melts are another excellent alternative, specifically designed for dipping and coating, offering a beautiful appearance and delicious flavor.
- Other Baking Staples: Don’t forget baking powder for lift, salt to balance the sweetness, vegetable oil for added moisture, granulated sugar for sweetness, and milk for a tender cake crumb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) About Strawberry Cake Balls:
Can I use frozen strawberries?
For the best results and consistency in this recipe, it is highly recommended to use fresh strawberries. Frozen strawberries, even after thawing, contain a significant amount of excess water that could introduce too much liquid into the cake batter. This can lead to a dense, soggy cake rather than the light and moist texture we aim for. If you insist on trying frozen berries, you would need to defrost them completely and then dry them off exceptionally well to minimize moisture. However, this recipe has only been thoroughly tested with fresh berries, so experimenting with frozen ones would be entirely your own venture.
Can I use a cake mix?
Absolutely! While this recipe celebrates the joy of homemade cake, if you’re looking for a convenient shortcut or are short on time, a store-bought strawberry cake mix can be a perfectly acceptable substitute. Just prepare the cake mix according to its package instructions. Once baked and cooled, you can proceed with crumbling the cake and mixing it with cream cheese as directed in our recipe for the cake ball formation.
Can I use freeze-dried strawberry powder for garnishing?
Yes, freeze-dried strawberry powder makes a fantastic and visually appealing garnish! It adds an extra burst of concentrated strawberry flavor and a beautiful natural pink color. Simply sprinkle a light dusting over the white chocolate coating before it fully sets. You can find high-quality freeze-dried strawberry powder online or in specialty grocery stores to elevate the presentation and flavor of your cake balls.
Can I double this recipe?
Certainly! This recipe is easily scalable if you need to make a larger batch for a big gathering or just to have plenty of extra treats on hand. When doubling the recipe, ensure you have adequately sized mixing bowls to accommodate the increased volume of ingredients. Also, confirm you have sufficient freezer space to properly chill all the cake balls before dipping. Doubling the recipe will yield roughly 30 servings, making it perfect for parties or events.
How to store leftover Strawberry Cake Balls?
To maintain their freshness and prevent melting, store leftover Strawberry Cake Truffles in an airtight container or a sealed bag in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for up to 4-5 days. It is important to note that these delicate treats can melt if left at room temperature for extended periods, especially if your kitchen is warm. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy from the freezer, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw slowly for a few hours before serving.
How to Make Delicious Homemade Strawberry Cake Balls: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delightful Strawberry Cake Balls is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfect, mouth-watering results every time.
Phase 1: Baking the Perfect Strawberry Cake
- Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
- Puree the Strawberries: In a blender or food processor, place your washed, stemmed, and chopped fresh strawberries. Blend until you achieve a smooth, consistent puree. This strawberry puree will infuse our cake with natural fruit flavor. Set this aside.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and strawberry Jell-O powder until well combined. The Jell-O powder is key for that vibrant color and intensified strawberry taste. Set this dry mixture aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate, larger mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy.
- Incorporate Remaining Wet Ingredients: Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract (or strawberry extract for extra flavor) and the prepared strawberry puree. Mix until all ingredients are just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix on low speed until the batter is just smooth and fully combined. Again, avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial for the cake ball formation.
Phase 2: Forming and Chilling the Cake Balls
- Crumble the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, carefully cut off any crisp outer edges. These might be too dry for the cake balls. Crumble the remaining moist cake into very small, even pieces in a large mixing bowl. You can use your hands or a fork for this.
- Add Cream Cheese: To the crumbled cake, add the softened cream cheese. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix the cream cheese into the cake crumbs until the mixture is completely combined and forms a thick, cohesive dough. It should be firm enough to roll without being sticky.
- Roll and Freeze: Scoop out portions of the cake mixture, approximately 2 tablespoon-sized. Roll each portion into a smooth, uniform ball. Place these cake balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the cake balls for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is absolutely essential as it helps the cake balls firm up, making them easier to dip into chocolate and preventing them from falling apart.
Phase 3: Coating and Finishing Your Cake Balls
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: While the cake balls are chilling, prepare your white chocolate or almond bark. Place the 12 ounces of vanilla almond bark (or white chocolate candy melts) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize.
- Dip the Cake Balls: Remove the chilled cake balls from the freezer. Using a fork or a dipping tool, carefully dip each cake ball into the melted white chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently tap off any excess chocolate by lightly tapping the fork against the edge of the bowl.
- Set and Garnish: Place the coated cake balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, immediately garnish them with white chocolate drizzle, colorful sprinkles, or a dusting of freeze-dried strawberry powder before the chocolate sets.
- Final Chill: Return the garnished truffles to the freezer for a few minutes to allow the chocolate coating to fully set and harden. Once firm, your beautiful homemade Strawberry Cake Balls are ready to be served and enjoyed!
Tips for Achieving the Best Strawberry Cake Balls
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When making the cake, mix the dry and wet ingredients just until combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dry cake.
- Cool the Cake Completely: This is a crucial step! Attempting to crumble warm cake will result in a sticky, messy texture that’s difficult to work with. Patience during the cooling process pays off.
- Chill Thoroughly: The 30-minute freeze for the cake balls is non-negotiable. Cold cake balls maintain their shape better and are much easier to dip in warm chocolate without crumbling or melting.
- Work Efficiently When Dipping: Have your melted chocolate and chilled cake balls ready. Work quickly to dip the balls, as the cold cake will help the chocolate set faster. If the chocolate starts to thicken, gently reheat it for a few seconds.
- Use Quality Coating: Good quality almond bark or white chocolate candy melts ensure a smooth, glossy finish and a pleasant taste. Avoid using regular white chocolate chips as they often contain stabilizers that make them harder to melt smoothly for dipping.
- Uniform Ball Size: Use a cookie scoop or measure out 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each ball to ensure consistent size. This helps with even chilling and dipping, and makes for a more professional-looking final product.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: Beyond sprinkles and freeze-dried powder, consider a drizzle of contrasting dark chocolate, a tiny fresh mint leaf, or even edible glitter for extra flair.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
These Strawberry Cake Balls are fantastic for making ahead! Once coated and set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you’re planning further in advance or want to extend their shelf life, these delightful treats freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator a few hours before serving to allow them to thaw to a perfect, ready-to-eat consistency. They are ideal for party prep, last-minute gifts, or simply having a delicious treat on hand whenever a craving strikes.
Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you loved these Strawberry Cake Balls, you’re in for a treat! Explore more delightful recipes that are perfect for any occasion:
- Crock Pot Candy
- Strawberry Upside Down Cake
- Oreo Cookie Balls
- Red Velvet Cake Balls
- Peppermint Oreo Balls
- Subway’s Raspberry Cheesecake Cookies
Strawberry Cake Balls
These Strawberry Cake Balls are the perfect bite-sized treat made from homemade strawberry cake covered in white chocolate almond bark. A sweet treat for your Valentine!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup fresh strawberries, washed, stem removed and chopped
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 Tablespoons strawberry Jell-O powder
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 12 ounces vanilla almond bark (or white chocolate candy melts)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350° F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Put ¾ cup fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor and blend until the strawberries are pureed. Set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl with a whisk, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ¼ teaspoon salt and 3 Tablespoons strawberry Jell-O powder. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature, ¼ cup vegetable oil and ¾ cup granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and strawberry puree.
- Mix until combined. Add the dry mixture, alternating with ¼ cup milk until completely combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick can be inserted in the center and come out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely.
- Cut off any crisp outer edges of the cake. Crumble the remaining cake into small pieces in a large mixing bowl.
- Add 6 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature and mix with the cake crumbs until completely combined.
- Roll the cake pop mixture into 2 Tablespoon-sized balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 30 minutes.
- Place 12 ounces vanilla almond bark in a bowl and heat until melted, stirring every 30 seconds. Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate and tap off any excess chocolate. Place back onto the parchment paper lined baking sheet.
- If desired, garnish with white chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, or freeze dried strawberry powder. Place back into the freezer for a few minutes to allow the truffles to set.
Notes
For more detailed answers to common questions, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) and comprehensive ingredient list provided above.
Nutrition
Calories: 331kcal |
Carbohydrates: 39g |
Protein: 3g |
Fat: 18g |
Sodium: 99mg |
Fiber: 0.5g |
Sugar: 28g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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