Happy Friday, fellow food lovers!

Easy Oreo Cake Pops: The Ultimate No-Bake Treat & A Special A Cedar Spoon Update!

As many of you know, life is about to get a whole lot sweeter and busier here at A Cedar Spoon. Over the next few months, I’ll be taking some precious time to fully immerse myself in the joy of welcoming our second baby boy into the world. Adjusting to life with a toddler and a newborn at home will be a wonderful adventure, and I can’t wait to share snippets of it with you all. This period is a significant milestone for our family, marking a beautiful new chapter filled with cuddles, laughter, and a bit of beautiful chaos.

However, my commitment to bringing you delicious and inspiring recipes remains steadfast! You can still look forward to a brand new, mouth-watering recipe every Monday – perfect for kickstarting your week with culinary excitement. On most Fridays, we’ll be featuring fantastic guest posts from some of my incredibly talented food blogger friends, bringing diverse flavors and culinary perspectives right to our community. This is a wonderful way to discover new blogs and expand your recipe repertoire. And, depending on the week, you might even find an extra special recipe popping up on a Wednesday! I’ve been diligently working behind the scenes, preparing a fantastic lineup of dishes, including some invaluable freezer meals that I made in anticipation of the baby’s arrival. These make-ahead wonders have been a true lifesaver, offering nutritious and easy options for busy days. I’m excited to share my strategies and go-to recipes so you can also conquer meal prep like a pro, whether you’re preparing for a new baby, a busy work schedule, or simply want to save time in the kitchen. So, definitely stay tuned for those practical and delicious ideas that promise to simplify your meal times without compromising on taste.

Speaking of fantastic friends and delicious food, today marks our very first guest post during this exciting period, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to introduce you to my dear friend, Jessica, from Stuck on Sweet! Jessica consistently shares such delightful and beautifully crafted dishes that truly speak to the heart. Her blog is an absolute treasure trove, brimming with incredible Italian favorites – and believe me, with her husband’s Italian family, she truly knows her way around authentic flavors and traditional recipes, passed down through generations. But beyond savory, she is absolutely my go-to guru for all things sweet and dessert-related. From intricate pastries and celebratory cakes to simple, comforting cookies and delightful treats, Jessica masters it all with an elegant touch and a keen eye for presentation. I was fortunate enough to work alongside Jess for several years, and our bond grew stronger through our shared passion for food and recipe development. Even now, we frequently host cooking classes together because, well, that’s what true foodie friends are for, isn’t it? Her creativity, warm personality, and passion for creating memorable dishes are truly inspiring, and I know you’ll absolutely love what she has in store for you today!

A Sweet Welcome from Stuck on Sweet: Celebrating New Beginnings!

Hello everyone! This is Jessica from Stuck on Sweet, and I am absolutely overjoyed to be guest posting here on A Cedar Spoon today. I’m thrilled to be a part of this special time, filling in for the wonderful Julia as she prepares to welcome her second baby boy into the world. Seriously, I can’t even wait to meet the little guy! I’m sure many of you have seen her adorable first son, Will. Isn’t he just the cutest, happiest little guy you could ever imagine? The last time I saw him (it feels like ages ago!), he was excitedly showing me his belly button with such pride and enthusiasm. I completely lost it – he’s just so darn cute and full of life, a true ray of sunshine. It’s moments like these, filled with pure joy and new beginnings, that remind us of the simple pleasures, much like the joy of sharing a delicious homemade treat.

Speaking of cute things, I hope you’ll agree these are kinda cute right?

Valentine’s Day Inspiration: Why We Love Sweets & Baking Adventures!

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I figured it was the perfect time to share something sweet, simple, and utterly irresistible. Valentine’s Day is, by the way, one of my absolute favorite holidays! It’s a day dedicated to love, appreciation, and, most importantly, delicious desserts. Whether you’re celebrating with a special someone, enjoying a cozy night in with friends, or simply treating yourself, it’s a holiday that almost universally calls for indulging in scrumptious sweets. And I am totally, wholeheartedly, all about it! It’s a wonderful excuse to bake, share, and enjoy the sweeter side of life, allowing us to express affection through the universal language of food.

Have you been to Michael’s lately? If not, you seriously need to go – like, right now! Their aisles are currently brimming with Valentine’s Day stuff galore, and I’m a bit obsessed, to say the least. My recent trip involved snagging this adorable HEART cookie cutter, along with the most charming assortment of sprinkles and the vibrant candy coating I used for these very pops. Michael’s is truly like Target for crafters and bakers; you just can’t leave without a whole bunch of stuff you “suddenly needed” but didn’t even know existed five minutes prior! On my last visit, I also walked out with some random tin thing that I’m sure I’ll find a use for, and, of course, more cupcake liners. They always seem to have new, irresistible designs every single time I go, and I always rationalize it with, “Well, hey, can’t hurt to get a few more, right? And they’re only like $1.99!” Consequently, I now have a cupboard overflowing with cupcake liners, a testament to my frequent visits and love for baking supplies. Looks like I need to start baking some serious cupcakes to make a proper dent in my ever-growing collection!

Oreo Cake Pops: The Easiest 3-Ingredient Dessert You’ll Ever Make!

Now, let’s talk about these glorious pops! Oreo cake pops are, hands down, one of the super easiest, most rewarding desserts you can make. They require absolutely no baking, which is a huge bonus, especially when you’re short on time or don’t want to turn on the oven. You genuinely only need three main ingredients to create these delightful treats: classic OREO Cookies, softened cream cheese, and your choice of colorful candy coating or melted chocolate. It’s a no-bake wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for last-minute party preparations, a fun baking project with kids, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. The combination of crushed Oreos and cream cheese creates a rich, truffle-like consistency that is simply divine.

What You’ll Need:

Ingredients:

1 package (approximately 14.3 oz / 36 Oreos) OREO Cookies (any flavor works, but classic is best for starters, or try Golden Oreos for a vanilla twist!)
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, full-fat, softened to room temperature (this is crucial for a smooth mix!)
12-16 oz candy coating (like Wilton Candy Melts in various colors) or your favorite chocolate (white, milk, or dark chocolate chips), for dipping
Optional: Sprinkles, edible glitter, mini chocolate chips, or additional melted chocolate for decorative drizzles

Essential Equipment:

Food processor (highly recommended for achieving fine, uniform crumbs quickly) or a sturdy large Ziploc bag and a rolling pin
Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper (prevents sticking)
Lollipop sticks (4-inch or 6-inch, depending on your preference)
Microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler for melting the coating evenly
Styrofoam block, a piece of floral foam, or a tall glass for holding pops upright while they set

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect (or Perfectly Charming!) Oreo Cake Pops:

Crush the Oreos: Place the entire package of Oreos (filling and all – no need to scrape it out!) into a food processor. Pulse until they are very finely ground into uniform crumbs, resembling fine dirt. The finer the crumbs, the smoother and more truffle-like your cake pop centers will be. If you don’t have a food processor, place them in a large Ziploc bag, remove the air, seal it tightly, and crush them with a rolling pin until very fine.
Mix with Cream Cheese: Transfer the Oreo crumbs to a large mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese. Using your clean hands (the best tool for this, trust me!), mix until the crumbs and cream cheese are thoroughly combined and form a consistent, dough-like mixture. It should be firm enough to roll into balls but not sticky or overly wet. If it’s too sticky, add a few more crushed Oreos; if too dry, a tiny bit more cream cheese.
Roll into Balls: Take small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them firmly into compact, smooth balls. Aim for consistency in size for even dipping. Place these balls on your parchment-lined baking sheet. For best results and easier dipping, chill the Oreo balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or 15 minutes in the freezer). This crucial step helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart when dipped into the warm coating.
Prepare the Coating: While the balls are chilling, melt your candy coating or chocolate. If using candy melts, follow the package directions for melting (usually in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth and fluid). If using a double boiler, ensure no water gets into the chocolate, as this will cause it to seize. A fluid consistency is key for a smooth finish.
Dip the Sticks: Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted coating about half an inch, then immediately insert the coated end into the center of an Oreo ball, pushing it about halfway through. This acts as a “glue” to securely attach the ball to the stick, preventing it from slipping off during the final dip.
Dip the Cake Pops: Once all sticks are inserted and the coating on the sticks has set slightly (you can pop them back into the fridge for a few minutes to speed this up), fully dip each Oreo ball into the melted coating. Submerge completely, then gently tap the stick against the edge of the bowl to remove any excess coating. Allow any drips to fall back into the bowl. Work quickly, as the coating can set fast once it touches the cold ball.
Decorate (Optional): If you’re adding sprinkles or other decorations, do so immediately after dipping, while the coating is still wet. For a drizzled effect, let the first layer of coating set completely, then drizzle with a contrasting color of melted chocolate using a fork or a piping bag with a very small hole.
Let Them Set: Insert the dipped cake pops into a styrofoam block, a piece of floral foam, or stand them upright in a tall glass to allow the coating to fully set. This can take about 15-30 minutes at room temperature, or faster if you place them gently in the refrigerator. Once set, they are ready to enjoy!

Why Oreo Cake Pops Are a Party Favorite for Every Occasion

I absolutely love making cake pops for parties and gatherings because they are incredibly fun to create, and without fail, people absolutely adore them! They’re not just delicious; they’re also adorable, offering a unique and memorable dessert experience that stands out from a typical cake or cookie. Their individual serving size makes them perfect for any social event, from birthday parties and baby showers to holiday celebrations and casual get-togethers. They offer a delightful bite-sized treat that’s easy to grab and enjoy. Plus, they’re much less messy than slicing a cake, making them a hit with hosts and guests alike. The customizable nature of cake pops, from the coating colors to the sprinkle designs, means they can be effortlessly tailored to fit any theme, color scheme, or occasion, adding a personal and creative touch that guests will surely appreciate. They also make wonderful edible gifts, beautifully packaged for friends and family.

Embracing Imperfection: Your Cake Pops Don’t Need to Be Flawless!

Now, don’t you worry one bit if your cake pops don’t turn out absolutely perfect on your first (or fifth!) try. Achieving that magazine-perfect finish is incredibly difficult and often takes a lot of practice, patience, and time. I’m not saying don’t aim for perfection if that’s your goal, but please don’t feel like your beautiful creations are ruined if they don’t look exactly like the ones you see in glossy photos. In fact, sometimes the slight imperfections add character and a charming, homemade touch! I mean, just check out the sticks in mine in the photos – they’re all a little crooked here and there! I genuinely think it adds a lovely, rustic appeal that shows they were made with love, not mass-produced. 😉 The most important thing is that they taste delicious, you had fun making them, and you shared a sweet moment with those you care about. Remember, home baking is about love, flavor, and the joy of sharing, not about flawless execution every single time. Every lopsided pop tells a story and is a testament to your efforts!

Enjoy these delightful treats, and thank you so much for hanging out with me on A Cedar Spoon today! It’s been a true pleasure sharing a little bit of Stuck on Sweet with you all and celebrating Julia’s exciting new chapter. I hope you’re inspired to whip up a batch of these easy and delicious Oreo Cake Pops very soon!

Source: Jess from Stuck on Sweet

Hugs and kisses to my beautiful foodie friend, Julia! Xoxo