Mini Strawberry Shortcake Pops

Name: Mini Strawberry Shortcake Pops
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 pops
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup water; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup whipped cream; 12 lollipop sticks; White chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I absolutely love making Mini Strawberry Shortcake Pops because they bring a delightful twist to a classic dessert. The combination of fluffy vanilla cake, fresh strawberries, and a creamy whipped topping creates a perfect bite-sized treat. These pops are not just adorable; they are incredibly easy to assemble, making them my go-to for gatherings. Whether it’s a picnic or a birthday party, these pops are sure to impress. I can't wait for you to try this simple and scrumptious recipe!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:26:27.608Z

Creating these Mini Strawberry Shortcake Pops has been a delightful adventure for me. The creamy texture of the whipped topping and the sweetness of the strawberries melt together beautifully. I discovered that using a cake mix saves time, and it still results in a moist, fluffy flavor that pairs perfectly with the strawberries. I like to add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth, making these treats irresistible.

Another tip I've learned is to freeze the pops for at least an hour before serving; this helps them hold their shape while giving that ice-cream-like consistency in every bite. It's fascinating how a simple method transforms these pops into an elegant dessert that everyone loves. Trust me, once you try them, you will be hooked!

Why You'll Love These Pops
Crisp, buttery cake enveloped in rich whipped cream
Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness
Perfect for serving at parties or enjoying on a warm day

Baking the Perfect Cake

When using a box vanilla cake mix, ensure that you follow the instructions diligently regarding oven temperature and baking time. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, which won’t hold together well for the pops. The cake should be lightly golden on top and spring back when gently pressed. After taking it out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain moisture.

Incorporating eggs and oil into the dry mix are critical steps. The eggs provide structure and stability, while the oil adds moisture that keeps the cake tender. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider substituting the water with milk or almond milk. This minor change can enhance the texture and overall taste of your cake, making it even more delightful.

Assembling Your Pops

The fun part of this recipe is shaping the strawberry shortcake pops. When crumbling the cooled cake, aim for a fine texture; large chunks won’t adhere well. Mixing in just enough whipped cream to create a cohesive mixture is essential—not too much, as this can make the pops too soggy. Use your hands to form balls that are about 1.5 inches in diameter, which is the perfect size for a bite.

After inserting the lollipop sticks, make sure to freeze the pops for a minimum of one hour. This step is crucial for the pops to firm up, allowing you to handle them without them falling apart. If you’re in a hurry and need to speed up the freezing process, you can place them in the quick-freeze section of your freezer for about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box vanilla cake mix
3 large eggs
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup vegetable oil

For Assembly

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup whipped cream
12 lollipop sticks
White chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Mix all cake ingredients in a bowl until smooth.

Instructions

Bake the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish as per the cake mix instructions. Mix the cake ingredients until well combined. Pour into the prepared dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.

Assemble the Pops

Crumble the cooled cake into a bowl. Add a little whipped cream and strawberries, mixing until combined. Form small balls and insert a lollipop stick into each. Freeze for at least 1 hour.

Serve and Enjoy

If desired, melt white chocolate and drizzle over the pops. Serve chilled and enjoy your delightful Mini Strawberry Shortcake Pops!

Enjoy these delicious treats with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using other berries like blueberries or raspberries. You can also use different flavored whipped creams for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Mini Strawberry Shortcake Pops are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with a side of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping. Consider adding toppings like crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts to enhance texture and flavor. For an adult version, drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction after chilling, adding a unique tang that contrasts beautifully with the strawberries.

If you're looking for a gluten-free variation, consider using a gluten-free vanilla cake mix. This allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the same delicious pops without compromising on taste or texture. You could also experiment by swapping strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, which can provide different flavor notes and a beautiful array of colors.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers or want to make these pops ahead of time, they store well in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. To keep them fresh, separate layers with parchment paper. Just remember that the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly once frozen, but the flavor remains intact. To serve, pull them out and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

For the freshest taste, I recommend assembling the pops no earlier than the day you plan to serve them. This helps maintain the integrity of the strawberries and the whipped cream. As a final tip, if you notice any sweat forming on the pops after coming out of the freezer, simply give them a few moments before serving to ensure they maintain their appealing appearance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long will these pops last?

If stored in an airtight container in the freezer, they can last up to a month.

→ Can I make these pops gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the regular cake mix with a gluten-free version.

→ What can I use instead of lollipop sticks?

You could use wooden skewers cut to size or even pretzel sticks for a fun alternative.