Save to Pinterest Lightened-Up Sugar Cookie Cake Pops offer a guilt-free way to enjoy a sweet treat that’s both tender and flavorful. These bite-sized delights combine a soft sugar cookie base enriched with Greek yogurt, lending moisture and a slight tang. Coated in a thin layer of smooth white chocolate and decorated with colorful sprinkles, they bring a fun and festive touch without the heaviness of traditional cake pops.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is designed for those who crave the classic flavors of sugar cookies but want a lighter, portion-controlled dessert. The addition of Greek yogurt not only improves texture but also keeps the pops moist without heavy creams or excessive sugar. Whether you choose to enjoy them fresh or chilled, these cake pops bring joy in every bite.
Ingredients
- Sugar Cookie Base
- 1 1/4 cups (155 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (56 g) light cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (nonfat or low-fat)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Cake Pop Coating
- 1 1/2 cups (250 g) white chocolate or vanilla candy melts
- 2 tsp coconut oil (optional, for thinning)
- Decoration
- Sprinkles, as desired
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
- 2. Mix dry ingredients.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- 3. Cream butter and sugar.
- In a large bowl, beat butter, light cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- 4. Combine mixtures.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- 5. Bake the cookie base.
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- 6. Cool and crumble.
- Let the cookie base cool completely, then crumble it into fine pieces in a large bowl.
- 7. Form cake pop dough.
- Add an extra 2 tbsp Greek yogurt to the crumbs and mix until the mixture holds together when pressed (add more yogurt if needed, 1 tsp at a time).
- 8. Shape and chill.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the freezer for 20–30 minutes until firm.
- 9. Melt coating.
- Melt the white chocolate or candy melts with coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- 10. Insert sticks.
- Dip the tip of each cake pop stick into the melted chocolate, then insert into each cake ball.
- 11. Coat and decorate.
- Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate to coat, gently tapping off excess. Immediately add sprinkles if desired.
- 12. Set the cake pops.
- Stand the cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or cake pop stand. Let set at room temperature or in the fridge until the coating is firm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, chill the cake balls thoroughly before dipping to prevent crumbling. Use parchment paper when rolling and chilling to avoid sticking. If the coating is too thick, gently warm and stir in a bit more coconut oil. Handling the pops promptly after decorating helps maintain a smooth, glossy finish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lower-sugar version, replace granulated sugar with a baking-compatible sugar substitute. Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate to vary flavor profiles. To make this recipe dairy-free, use non-dairy Greek-style yogurt and vegan butter. Feel free to customize decorations with various sprinkles or drizzle techniques.
Serviervorschläge
These lightened-up sugar cookie cake pops pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a light dessert wine for a sophisticated treat. They make charming additions to party platters, holiday celebrations, or afternoon snacks that satisfy sweet cravings without overindulgence.
Save to Pinterest These lightened-up sugar cookie cake pops invite you to enjoy a classic dessert with a healthier twist. Combining creamy textures, subtle sweetness, and playful presentation, they are sure to become a favorite anytime you want a light yet satisfying indulgence.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I keep the cake pops moist?
Incorporating Greek yogurt into the base keeps the texture tender and moist without adding extra fat.
- → Can I use a different coating?
Yes, swap the white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate to vary flavor and sweetness.
- → What’s the best way to shape the pops?
Chill the cookie mixture balls in the freezer for 20-30 minutes before coating to help them hold their shape.
- → How should I store these treats?
Keep them refrigerated or at room temperature once coated, making sure the chocolate coating is firm.
- → Can I make a dairy-free version?
Use non-dairy Greek-style yogurt and vegan butter as substitutes for dairy ingredients.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, these pops are vegetarian-friendly with no meat or gelatin ingredients.