Step 1: Bake the Cake in the Instant Pot
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place a trivet inside.
- Mix the cake batter: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased, oven-safe dish that fits inside your Instant Pot. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent condensation. Place the dish on the trivet in the Instant Pot and set to manual for 30 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Cool the cake: Carefully remove the dish from the Instant Pot and let the cake cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cake Pops
- Crumble the cake: Once the cake is cool, crumble it into a large bowl until there are no large chunks remaining.
- Mix in the frosting: Add the frosting to the crumbled cake a little at a time, mixing until fully combined. You want the mixture to hold together but not be overly wet.
- Form the pops: Scoop out small portions of the cake mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Insert lollipop sticks: Melt a small amount of green candy melts and dip the end of each lollipop stick into the melted chocolate. Then insert the stick into the center of each cake ball. This helps the stick stay in place.
- Chill: Place the cake pops in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Coat the Cake Pops
- Melt the candy melts: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the green candy melts according to package instructions, stirring until smooth.
- Dip the cake pops: Remove the cake pops from the refrigerator. Dip each one into the melted green chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess to drip off.
- Add decorations: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with red heart sprinkles or place a small red heart candy at the top for a Grinch-like touch.
Step 4: Set and Serve
- Let them set: Place the coated cake pops upright in a cake pop stand or a block of foam to set.
- Enjoy: Once the chocolate has hardened, your Grinch Cake Pops are ready to be enjoyed or gifted!
Conclusion
These Grinch Cake Pops are not only a fun and festive treat but also a delicious way to celebrate the holiday season. The moist chocolate cake paired with the vibrant green coating makes for a delightful combination that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create these charming holiday delights that will bring smiles to faces of all ages! Happy baking!