Crumble the red velvet cake into a large mixing bowl and mix in the cream cheese frosting, until completely mixed.
Using gloves, add 3 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into a ball. Repeat with the remaining cake mixture and line up on a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
Melt the almond bark and vegetable shortening in a bowl in the microwave, then dip the tip of a treat stick (about 1”) into the melted almond bark . Push it into one of the cake balls - about halfway.
Repeat with all the cake balls then place in the freezer for 10 minutes.
Check the consistency of the almond bark mixture, if it needs another blast in the microwave, give it another 30 seconds.
Dip each cake pop into the melted almond bark. If you’re using sprinkles make sure to sprinkle the cake pop before the almond bark sets.
For those that you’re using the red candy melts to decorate, allow to set up.
Decorating the Cake Pops
Be sure the coating is completely set on the pops.
In a piping bag, add the red candy melts and twist the top closed.
Place in the microwave and heat for 30 second intervals, removing and squishing with your hands until all the candy melts have melted.
Snip the end of the piping bag and pipe onto the cake pops how you like.
Notes
Storage:They'll last for about a week in the refrigerator. Just cover with plastic wrap or put in an airtight container.Frozen cake balls keep for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them extra well in plastic wrap and then seal the pops in heavy-duty freezer bags.Tips:
Don't want to bake? Buy a pre-made red velvet cake. Scrape off the frosting before crumbling it, but save some to mix in again later!
Avoid shallow dishes for dipping—it'll be too difficult to get the cake pop submerged fully. I like to use a small bowl, preferably one with taller sides, or a drinking glass.
You might not be able to find red candy melts at your local grocery store. However, you can easily order them online or find them in the baking section of popular craft stores.
Wear food-safe gloves. The red dye in the cake will tint your skin!
If you have a "melt chocolate" setting on your microwave, feel free to use that. Stir often so the bark and candy melts don't burn.
Craft a cheap, DIY cake pop stand out of a styrofoam block.
Or, use a jar and vase filler to make a functional and delicious dessert centerpiece, as I did in the photos.
If the almond bark coating starts to crack, it means the temperature difference is too drastic. Let the melted bark cool and the cake pops warm up a bit, and try again.