Dessert First: Cake Pops!

Most of the world has yet to discover the wonders of a "cake pop." Now being sold as large chains, such as Starbucks, I am sure the craze will catch on quickly. For those still unsure of what a cake pop is-it is cake baked, then crumbled with frosting added into the crumbs and then rolled into a ball. Some people choose to stop here and have "cake balls" while the more adventurous go on to freeze the balls of cake and later insert a lolly-pop stick. Once the stick is inserted dunk in white, milk, or dark chocolate and enjoy! Of course for those looking to "WOW" their guests, I might suggest buying a can (yes go BUY it) of icing. NOT whipped, trust me it does not work!! Then adding food coloring to the icing and melting it in the microwave for a few seconds until smooth. Watch the icing closely, if it gets too hot too quickly it will granulate! Once the icing is smooth dunk cake pops into icing and decorate with sprinkles or pipe a fancy design. DO NOT decorate with colored sugar! The sugar will melt when placed in fridge and become a runny, sticky mess! These treats are great for kids parties, picnics, or the elderly because there are no plates, knives, forks, or spoons needed. They are easily transported in florist foam, simply poke the sticks into the foam and place in a box or on a tray. Go try making cake pops- they are a crowd pleaser! (Use box cake and icing from a can to make life a little more simple. One box and 3/4 of a can of icing make anywhere from 36-48 cake balls depending on size. I use a cookie scoop, which makes 36).

http://video.about.com/kidsparties/How-to-Make-Cake-Pops.htm <---Great video for beginners!