Cake pops are the ultimate party treat, combining the joy of cake with the fun and convenience of a single-serving snack. These bite-sized delights are perfect for birthdays, holidays, and any celebration where you want a creative and customizable dessert. The key to perfect, uniform cake pops every time is a dedicated cake pop maker. These clever appliances bake batter into perfectly round spheres in minutes, eliminating the mess of crumbling cake and rolling balls by hand.
From high-capacity models for large gatherings to versatile machines that make multiple treats, there is a cake pop maker for every need. We have researched and compiled a list of the top machines available to help you find the perfect one for your next event. This roundup will guide you through the best options, highlighting their unique features and benefits to make your decision easy.
The Best Cake Pop Makers for Your Next Celebration
- Babycakes 3-in-1 Removable Plate Treat Maker
- Brentwood TS-252 Non-Stick 7 Mini Cupcake Maker
- Holstein Housewares 12-Count Cake Pop Maker
- Babycakes Cake Pop Maker Kit with Stand & Sticks
- 23 Cake Pop Maker Machine for Big Batches
- Holstein Housewares Lavender Cake Pop Maker
- Multi Baker Deluxe with Interchangeable Skillets
- BELLA Cake Pop & Donut Hole Maker
- Nordic Ware Donut Hole and Cake Pop Pan
- Chef’sChoice Cake Pop Perfect Express Maker
Babycakes 3-in-1 Removable Plate Treat Maker
For bakers who love variety, the Babycakes 3-in-1 Treat Maker is an excellent choice. This versatile appliance comes with three interchangeable, non-stick baking plates, allowing you to create cake pops, cupcakes, and donuts all with one compact machine. It can bake up to 12 cake pops, 7 cupcakes, or 7 donuts at a time, making it suitable for small gatherings and family treats.
Maintenance is simple with this model. The baking plates are dishwasher-safe, and the unit features a convenient cord wrap for tidy storage. Its ability to produce three different types of baked goods makes it a space-saving and economical addition to any kitchen, perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with different recipes.
Brentwood TS-252 Non-Stick 7 Mini Cupcake Maker
If your primary focus is on mini cupcakes that can double as cake pop bases, the Brentwood Mini Cupcake Maker is a straightforward and effective option. This compact machine bakes seven mini cupcakes at once, which can be used to create a cake pop-like treat by adding a stick and decorating. Its simple design makes it very easy to use.
The unit features a non-stick cooking surface for easy release and cleanup. Its small footprint makes it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. This is a great beginner-friendly appliance for someone looking to make small, bite-sized desserts without a large investment.
Holstein Housewares 12-Count Cake Pop Maker
The Holstein Housewares Cake Pop Maker is designed for efficiency and consistent results. It bakes a full dozen cake pops in just minutes, and its versatility extends to other treats like brownie bites, donut holes, and even savory snacks such as falafel. This makes it a highly useful appliance beyond just dessert preparation.
User-friendly features include preheat and ready-to-cook indicator lights, which take the guesswork out of baking and ensure your pops are perfectly cooked every time. The non-stick, PFOA-free coating allows for easy removal of your treats and simplifies cleanup to a quick wipe-down.
Babycakes Cake Pop Maker Kit with Stand & Sticks
This Babycakes model is an all-in-one kit that provides everything you need to start making and decorating cake pops immediately. The machine bakes 12 cake pops quickly and comes with a decorating stand that also functions as a cooling rack, a handy fork tool, and 50 six-inch cake pop sticks. This eliminates the need to purchase additional accessories separately.
The appliance itself is designed with user convenience in mind, featuring non-skid feet, a latching handle, and a power indicator light. The included manual contains recipes to help you get started on your cake pop creation journey, making it an ideal package for beginners.
23 Cake Pop Maker Machine for Big Batches
When you need to serve a crowd, this high-capacity cake pop maker is the perfect solution. With 23 individual molds, it can produce nearly two dozen cake pops in a single batch, significantly cutting down on preparation time for large parties, school events, or big family gatherings. Its capacity is one of the largest available for home use.
Safety and ease of use are key features of this model. It has a cool-touch handle and non-slip feet, making it a safe option for families with children who want to help. The premium non-stick coating ensures cake pops release cleanly and makes for very simple cleanup after use.
Holstein Housewares Lavender Cake Pop Maker
This is the same reliable model as the red Holstein Housewares maker, but presented in a stylish lavender color to match your kitchen decor. It offers the same excellent performance, baking 12 cake pops or other sweet and savory bites quickly and efficiently. The charming color adds a touch of personality to your countertop.
It shares all the same great features, including the PFOA-free non-stick coating for easy release and cleaning, as well as the helpful indicator lights for preheating and cooking. This allows you to choose a machine that not only works well but also fits your aesthetic preferences.
Multi Baker Deluxe with Interchangeable Skillets
For the ultimate in kitchen versatility, the Multi Baker Deluxe is a standout choice. This electric appliance comes with three interchangeable skillets, including one for making cake pops and takoyaki-style balls. It also functions as a grill for sandwiches, a skillet for omelets, and more, all with adjustable temperature control.
This appliance is ideal for someone with limited storage space who wants one machine that can perform many tasks. It goes far beyond baking, allowing you to prepare a wide range of meals and snacks. If you value multi-functionality over a single-purpose gadget, this is a compelling option.
BELLA Cake Pop & Donut Hole Maker
The BELLA Cake Pop & Donut Hole Maker is a reliable and simple-to-use appliance from a trusted brand. It is designed to bake faster than a conventional oven, providing quick results for your dessert preparations. The machine includes both power and ready indicator lights, so you know exactly when it is preheated and ready for the batter.
Its straightforward operation makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The non-stick surface facilitates easy removal of your cake pops and donut holes, and the compact design ensures it won’t take up too much space on your counter or in your cabinet.
Nordic Ware Donut Hole and Cake Pop Pan
For those who prefer traditional oven baking, the Nordic Ware pan set is a brilliant solution. This two-piece aluminum pan with interlocking halves bakes perfectly spherical cake pops and donut holes in your oven. Aluminum construction ensures even heat distribution for consistent baking results.
The set includes 24 cake pop sticks and features a premium nonstick interior for easy release and cleanup. This is an excellent choice for bakers who already have a full oven but want the ability to create uniform, round cake pops without an electric appliance.
Chef’sChoice Cake Pop Perfect Express Maker
Chef’sChoice is known for producing high-quality kitchen tools, and their Cake Pop Perfect Express Maker is designed for serious bakers. This model often incorporates advanced features aimed at achieving professional-level results, such as precise temperature control for perfectly baked pops every time.
While specific features for this model should be confirmed on the product page, Chef’sChoice appliances are generally built for durability and performance. If you are looking for a potentially more robust machine from a premium brand, this is a model worth investigating further for its specific capabilities.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cake Pop Maker
I know how exciting it is to plan a party and want to add that special homemade touch. Cake pops are a fantastic choice because they are fun, portable, and always a hit with guests. But with several cake pop makers on the market, picking the right one can feel a bit overwhelming. I have found that focusing on a few key features makes the decision much easier.
First, consider the capacity and size. How many cake pops do you need to make for your typical gathering? If you are hosting large events, a maker with 12 or more wells will save you a lot of time. For smaller, more intimate parties, a compact 6-well model might be perfect. Also, think about the final size of the cake pop. Some machines make mini, bite-sized spheres, while others create larger, more substantial treats. The size will affect how much batter you need and the overall look of your finished dessert.
Next, I always look at the non-stick coating. A high-quality, durable non-stick surface is a game-changer. It ensures your cake balls release cleanly and makes cleanup a quick wipe-down instead of a scrubbing session. Some models have a ceramic coating, which is known for its excellent non-stick properties and resistance to scratching. A good coating means you will use less oil or cooking spray, which is better for the taste and texture of your cake pops.
Another important factor is the power and heating. Machines with higher wattage tend to heat up faster and more evenly, which results in consistently cooked cake pops without cold or hot spots. Even heating is crucial for that uniform golden-brown color. I also appreciate models with a ready indicator light. It takes the guesswork out of knowing when the appliance is preheated and ready for the batter, which is especially helpful if you are new to using one.
Finally, think about versatility and ease of use. Some cake pop makers come with additional plates for making mini donuts, pancakes, or even savory snacks, which is a great way to get more use out of your appliance. The cord length and storage are practical considerations too; a long cord offers more flexibility in your kitchen setup, and a machine that stores compactly is always a bonus. By thinking about your specific party needs and keeping these features in mind, you can confidently choose one of the best cake pop makers for parties that will help you create wonderful treats for your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular cake mix in a cake pop maker?
Yes, you absolutely can! I use standard boxed cake mix all the time. The main trick is to adjust the consistency. The pre-made batter from the box is usually too thin. I like to prepare the mix as directed on the box, but then I add a few extra tablespoons of flour to thicken it up. This helps the batter hold its spherical shape in the wells instead of spreading out. You want a texture that is thick but still pipeable or scoopable.
How do I prevent my cake pops from sticking to the machine?
This is a common worry, but it is easily prevented. The most important step is to properly grease the wells, even if the manufacturer says the non-stick coating does not require it. I use a pastry brush to lightly coat each well with a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray, but be careful to avoid spraying the outside heating elements. Doing this before each batch will guarantee your cake pops release perfectly.
Why are my cake pops coming out dry or dense?
If your cake pops are turning out dry, the issue is usually over-baking. These machines cook very quickly, often in just 4-6 minutes. I recommend starting with the minimum cooking time suggested in the recipe or manual and checking for doneness. The cake pop should be lightly golden and a toothpick inserted should come out clean. A dense texture can be caused by over-mixing the batter. Just mix until the ingredients are combined; a few small lumps are okay.
How far in advance can I make cake pops for a party?
You can prepare them a couple of days ahead of time, which is great for party planning. Once the cake balls are cooked and cooled, I place them in a single layer in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for about two days. If I need to make them further in advance, I freeze them. After they are completely cool, I put them on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before decorating.
What is the best way to decorate cake pops?
Decorating is where you can get really creative. The classic method is to dip them in melted candy melts. I first insert a lollipop stick into the cake ball, then dip it into the melted coating, tapping off the excess. Before the coating sets, you can add sprinkles, sanding sugar, or drizzle with a different color. For a smooth finish, make sure your candy melts are thinned to the proper consistency with a bit of paramount crystal or vegetable oil. Having the right tools makes all the difference when you are looking for the best cake pop makers for parties and the subsequent decoration process.
Can I make cake pops without a dedicated machine?
You can, but the process is quite different. The traditional method involves baking a full sheet cake, crumbling it, mixing it with frosting, and then hand-rolling the mixture into balls. This technique creates a denser, truffle-like cake pop. The cake pop maker bakes a small sphere of batter directly, resulting in a lighter, more cake-like texture that is uniform in size. The machine method is generally faster and less messy for the initial cake ball creation.