Cake pops are a fun, bite-sized dessert made by mixing crumbled cake with frosting or cream cheese to form a dough, rolling the dough into balls, and dipping the balls in candy coating or melted chocolate. But how long do they stay fresh after you make them? Here’s what you need to know about how long cake pops last after dipping.
Do Cake Pops Need to be Refrigerated?
Freshly made cake pops do not need to be refrigerated. The candy coating helps seal in moisture and prevents the cake balls from drying out. As long as they are stored properly, cake pops can be left out at room temperature for several days without going bad.
However, if your cake pops have a cream cheese-based filling or fresh fruit added, it’s best to refrigerate them. The cold temperature will help prevent the filling from softening or the fruit from becoming overripe.
How to Store Cake Pops
Proper storage is key for maximizing the shelf life of cake pops after dipping. Here are some tips for storage:
- Let the coating harden completely before storing. This seals in freshness.
- Store cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents moisture loss.
- Use wax paper liners between layers to prevent sticking.
- Keep away from direct sunlight which can melt the coating.
- If refrigerating, allow to come to room temperature before serving so the coating doesn’t crack.
How Long Do Cake Pops Last at Room Temperature?
When stored at room temperature in an airtight container, undipped cake balls will last for 1-2 days. Once dipped in candy coating, cake pops can last at room temperature for up to 1 week.
The exact shelf life depends on factors like:
- Ingredients used – Cream cheese fillings may shorten shelf life
- Freshness of ingredients – Older cake will dry out faster
- Thickness of coating – Thinner coating provides less protection
- Storage conditions – Warm, humid environments shorten shelf life
For best quality and texture, plan to serve cake pops within 3-5 days of dipping when left out at room temperature.
How Long Do Cake Pops Last in the Refrigerator?
Refrigerating extends the shelf life of cake pops after dipping. In the fridge, undipped cake balls keep for 3-5 days. Dipped cake pops can last 2-3 weeks refrigerated.
Make sure cake pops are completely hardened and dry before refrigerating. The cold air can cause moisture condensation on the surface which leads to “sweating.” Place wax paper between layers and store cake pops in an airtight container.
Allow refrigerated cake pops to come to room temperature before serving. Eating them cold and hard straight from the fridge can cause the coating to crack or shatter.
How Long Do Cake Pops Last in the Freezer?
For long term storage, cake pops can be frozen for 2-3 months after dipping. Place them in single layers separated by wax paper in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Thaw frozen cake pops by moving them to the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid thawing at room temperature as condensation can form.
The cake may become a little dry after freezing. You can restore moisture by letting the thawed cake pops sit with a slice of bread or apple in the container for 30 minutes. The fruit will release humidity and re-soften the cake.
How to Tell if Cake Pops Have Gone Bad
Watch for these signs that your cake pops have spoiled and should be discarded:
- Hard, dried out cake
- Soft, mushy cake
- Cracks, ooze or white spots on coating
- Mold growth
- Odd odor
- Change in color
If you see any signs of spoilage, it’s best to throw out the cake pops. Don’t eat them if they look or smell bad.
Tips for Making Cake Pops Last Longer
Here are some tips to help maximize the shelf life of your cake pops after dipping:
- Use very fresh cake and frosting. Old ingredients will shorten lifespan.
- Knead the cake pop dough well so it holds together better.
- Use candy coating not chocolate to seal in freshness longer.
- Make sure coating is thick enough, about 1/4 inch.
- Dry completely before storing. Any moisture can lead to mold growth.
- Handle gently when dipping and decorating to prevent breaking.
Displaying Cake Pops
When displaying cake pops for a party, event or sale, keep them refrigerated until just before serving. Set them out for a maximum of 2 hours at room temperature, then replace with fresh refrigerated pops as needed.
Provide pops with sticks or holders so guests are not handling the pops directly. Avoid any toppings that can wilt or melt under lights or heat, like sprinkles, coconut or chocolate drizzle.
Conclusion
With proper storage and handling, cake pops can last 1 week at room temperature or 2-3 weeks in the fridge after dipping before starting to dry out or go bad. For maximum freshness and shelf life, store undipped cake balls and coated pops in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer.
Watch for signs of spoilage and discard any cake pops that appear dried out, develop cracks, look or smell odd. Making pops with very fresh ingredients and thick candy coating also helps extend how long they stay delicious after dipping.
| Storage Method | Undipped Cake Balls Shelf Life | Dipped Cake Pops Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1-2 days | 3-5 days |
| Refrigerated | 3-5 days | 2-3 weeks |
| Frozen | Not recommended | 2-3 months |