Yes, you can coat cake pops with frosting instead of candy melts. While candy melts are commonly used for coating cake pops because they provide a smooth and firm outer layer, frosting can be a delicious alternative if you prefer a softer and more flavorful coating.
Here's a method you can use to coat cake pops with frosting:
Bake and cool your cake pops as you normally would. Ensure they are firm and chilled.
Prepare your frosting. You can use store-bought frosting or make your own. It's essential that the frosting has a thick consistency that will adhere well to the cake pops. If your frosting is too soft, you can add powdered sugar to thicken it.
Crumble the cake pops into small pieces using your hands or a food processor. Ensure the cake is finely crumbled and there are no large chunks.
Add a small amount of frosting to the crumbled cake and mix it thoroughly. Start with a tablespoon or two of frosting, and gradually add more as needed until the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together when shaped into balls.
Roll the cake and frosting mixture into small balls, ensuring they are compact and smooth. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Place the cake pop balls in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes to firm up.
Once the cake pop balls are chilled, you can dip them into the frosting to coat them. Gently heat the frosting in a microwave-safe bowl for a few seconds to soften it slightly, making it easier to work with. Dip each cake pop into the frosting, turning it to ensure an even coating. You can also use a spoon or a small spatula to spread the frosting on the cake pop.
Allow any excess frosting to drip off, and then place the coated cake pop back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
If desired, you can decorate the cake pops with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or other toppings while the frosting is still wet.
Let the cake pops set and the frosting firm up at room temperature or place them back in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
It's important to note that frosting-coated cake pops may be softer and more delicate than those coated with candy melts. They may also require refrigeration to maintain their shape and freshness. Therefore, it's recommended to serve and store them accordingly to ensure the best results.