Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles

Indulge in the delightful world of Red Velvet Cake Balls – a recipe that transforms the beloved red velvet cake into irresistible, bite-sized treats. Combining the richness of red velvet cake mix with creamy cream cheese, these little spheres are then enveloped in a decadent Ghirardelli chocolate or vanilla coating and topped with festive sprinkles. Perfect for any occasion, from parties to holiday gatherings, these cake balls offer the iconic red velvet flavor in a convenient, portable form.

Crafted with care and attention, these Red Velvet Cake Balls are more than just a sweet treat – they are a labor of love. Picture the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they savor these delectable morsels, each one a perfect combination of flavors and textures. With foolproof results using convenient cake mix and basic kitchen tools, this recipe is not just delicious but also a fun project to make, whether you’re baking with kids or enjoying some solo kitchen therapy.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a batch of these delightful Red Velvet Cake Balls. With each bite, you’ll experience the harmonious blend of red velvet cake, creamy filling, and luscious chocolate coating, making every moment spent in the kitchen truly worthwhile. Share these treats with your nearest and dearest, or keep them on hand for a quick indulgence – either way, these cake balls are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

Quick Benefits

  • Convenient usage of cake mix for foolproof results
  • Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining
  • Perfectly portioned for sharing and gifting
  • Customizable with different cake flavors and coatings

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles Recipe

  • Convenience: Uses a cake mix for foolproof results and doesn’t require any special equipment beyond basic kitchen tools.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for stress-free entertaining as you can prepare them in advance.
  • Perfect Portions: Ideal for sharing or gifting, ensuring everyone gets a taste of these delectable treats.
  • Customizable: Can be adapted with different cake flavors and coatings to suit different occasions or preferences.
  • Family-Friendly: Great project to make with kids, creating fun memories in the kitchen.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze beautifully for up to 3 months, ready for quick treats or unexpected guests.
  • Versatile: While perfect for Valentine’s Day, they can be enjoyed throughout the year with variations like chocolate, funfetti, or lemon cake.
  • Delicious Flavor: Combines the classic taste of red velvet cake with creamy cream cheese and rich chocolate coating for a truly indulgent experience.
  • Festive Appeal: Topped with Valentine’s sprinkles, adding a touch of celebration to each bite.
  • Special Touch: The high-quality Ghirardelli wafers ensure a smooth, professional-looking chocolate coating that elevates the overall presentation of the cake balls.

Ingredients for Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles

Base Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 15.25 ounce box red velvet cake mix (Betty Crocker recommended)

Coating & Decoration

  • Assorted sprinkles for topping
  • 10 ounces Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers
  • 10 ounces Ghirardelli vanilla melting wafers

Pro Tips for Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles

Pro Tip 1: When making red velvet cake balls, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth mixture. This will make it easier to combine with the cake mix and result in a fudgy base that holds its shape well.

Pro Tip 2: For a successful dipping process, work in small batches and keep your chocolate coating warm for consistent results. Using Ghirardelli wafers will provide a smooth and luxurious coating. Add sprinkles immediately after dipping to ensure they stick well before the chocolate sets.

Pro Tip 3: Plan ahead and spread the process over two days for easier preparation, especially when making large batches. Chilling the mixture overnight before shaping and dipping will make the process more manageable and yield perfectly shaped red velvet cake balls.

How to Make Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles

Step 1: Step 01

Evenly spread cake mix on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes to remove bacteria. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Step 02

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually fold in cooled cake mix, then beat until a dough-like consistency forms.

Step 3: Step 03

Wrap the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours until firm.

Step 4: Step 04

Form 1½ tablespoon portions into smooth balls, place on parchment-lined sheets, and allow to rest for 15 minutes to prevent cracking.

Step 5: Step 05

To melt the chocolate wafers, use a double boiler over low heat or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each.

Step 6: Step 06

Dip each ball into melted chocolate, shake off any excess, and place on parchment paper. Sprinkle with decorations before the chocolate coating hardens.

Step 7: Step 07

Let the coating dry completely before serving. Keep stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Storage Tips

Once you have made these delightful Red Velvet Cake Balls, it is important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. To store the finished cake balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept this way for up to a week, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious for snacking or sharing.

If you have leftover cake balls or want to prepare them in advance, these treats freeze beautifully. Simply place the cake balls in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to remove any excess air before sealing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes them perfect for pulling out as a quick treat for unexpected guests or for satisfying those late-night cravings.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Red Velvet Cake Balls over an extended period, whether you are preparing them for a special occasion, gifting them to loved ones, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a twist on the classic red velvet flavor, you can experiment with different cake mixes such as chocolate, funfetti, or lemon cake mix. Each variation will offer a unique taste profile while still maintaining the delightful bite-sized treat format. Feel free to get creative with the cake mix flavors to suit different occasions or preferences.

If you don’t have access to Ghirardelli melting wafers, you can substitute them with other high-quality chocolate or candy coating brands. Look for chocolate wafers that are specifically designed for melting and coating to ensure a smooth and glossy finish on your cake balls. Additionally, you can explore different flavors of candy coating to add variety to your treats, such as caramel, mint, or flavored white chocolate. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on the package instructions to coat all the cake balls evenly.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try displaying these red velvet cake balls on a tiered dessert stand to showcase their beautiful colors and make them a centerpiece at your next party or gathering. You can also drizzle some extra melted chocolate over the top and sprinkle with crushed nuts or edible glitter for an extra touch of elegance and decadence.

Another fun idea is to package these red velvet cake balls in small, clear treat bags tied with festive ribbons or twine. They make perfect party favors, stocking stuffers, or thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Personalize the packaging by adding handwritten notes or custom tags to spread love and joy with these irresistible bite-sized treats.

FAQs for Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles

Can I use a different brand of cake mix for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different brand of red velvet cake mix if you prefer. Just make sure it’s around 15.25 ounces to maintain the right consistency for the cake balls.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with a different ingredient?

While cream cheese is essential for the creamy texture and flavor of these cake balls, you can experiment with using mascarpone or a thick yogurt as a potential substitute. However, the taste and texture may vary.

How should I store these red velvet cake balls?

Store the red velvet cake balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, making them a convenient make-ahead treat for future occasions.

Can I make these cake balls in advance for a party?

Absolutely! These cake balls are make-ahead friendly. You can prepare and shape the mixture one day, then dip and decorate them the next day. This method helps to break down the process and make it more manageable, especially for larger batches.

Conclusion

As you embark on your Red Velvet Cake Balls journey, remember that each step is an opportunity to infuse love and care into these delightful treats. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to brighten someone’s day, the joy they bring is truly priceless. Embrace the process, enjoy the creative freedom to customize, and savor the sweet rewards of your efforts.

Let the rich flavors of red velvet cake, creamy cream cheese, and decadent chocolate coating come together to create a symphony of taste and texture in each Red Velvet Cake Ball. Share them with loved ones, savor them in quiet moments of indulgence, and celebrate the simple pleasure of homemade treats. May these Red Velvet Cake Balls become a staple in your baking repertoire, spreading happiness wherever they go. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the sweet aroma of success!

Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles

Decadent Red Velvet Cake Truffles

“Transform classic red velvet cake into irresistible bite-sized treats dipped in Ghirardelli chocolate – perfect for parties, holidays, or gifting.”
Prep Time180 Minutes
Cook Time5 Minutes
Total Time185 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelIntermediate
Servings20 Servings (20 cake balls)

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 15.25 ounce box red velvet cake mix (Betty Crocker recommended)

Coating & Decoration

  • Assorted sprinkles for topping
  • 10 ounces Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers
  • 10 ounces Ghirardelli vanilla melting wafers

Instructions

  1. Step 01: Evenly spread cake mix on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes to remove bacteria. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
  2. Step 02: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually fold in cooled cake mix, then beat until a dough-like consistency forms.
  3. Step 03: Wrap the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours until firm.
  4. Step 04: Form 1½ tablespoon portions into smooth balls, place on parchment-lined sheets, and allow to rest for 15 minutes to prevent cracking.
  5. Step 05: To melt the chocolate wafers, use a double boiler over low heat or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each.
  6. Step 06: Dip each ball into melted chocolate, shake off any excess, and place on parchment paper. Sprinkle with decorations before the chocolate coating hardens.
  7. Step 07: Let the coating dry completely before serving. Keep stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.