If you have a sweet tooth and love bite-sized treats that combine smooth creaminess with vibrant flavor, this Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender red velvet cake melted together with tangy cream cheese, all wrapped in a silky layer of white chocolate, then drizzled with a pop of red candy coating. These irresistible cake balls are perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a little indulgence that feels both fancy and utterly comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of five clear glass bowls and one wrapped block of butter, all placed on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl is filled with light brown powder, slightly coarse in texture. To its right is a small bowl holding a white creamy substance. Below that is a medium bowl full of smooth white chocolate discs, round and shiny. To the left of the white chocolate bowl is a smaller bowl with bright red chocolate discs, similar in shape and smoothness. Below these bowls is a rectangular silver foil-wrapped block with blue text printed on it, likely butter. The arrangement of the items is neat and evenly spaced. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe lies in a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each chosen to build layers of taste, texture, and that signature red hue. From the moist red velvet cake mix to the rich cream cheese, and the glossy white and red candy melts, every component plays a starring role in making these cake balls truly spectacular.

1 box red velvet cake mix (heat treated): Provides the moist, tender base bursting with classic red velvet flavor and color.
8 oz block of cream cheese (softened at room temperature): Adds tangy creaminess that keeps the cake balls delectably smooth and balanced.
2 cups white chocolate melting wafers: Creates a luscious, silky coating that hardens to a satisfying shell.
¾ cup red candy melting wafers: Perfect for a striking drizzle that amps up the visual and flavor appeal.
2 tablespoons of Crisco shortening (divided): Helps the melted chocolate stay smooth and glossy for easy dipping and decorating.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Cake and Cream Cheese

Start by combining your heat-treated red velvet cake mix with the softened cream cheese in a small bowl. Stir them together until you have a completely smooth, even mixture. This step ensures each bite is decadent and perfectly balanced with that classic cream cheese tang paired with the rich cake.

Step 2: Shape the Cake Balls

Using a 1-inch cookie scoop helps keep your cake balls uniform in size, but don’t forget to gently roll each scoop between your palms to achieve that perfect, smooth sphere. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in presentation, giving you those lovely round bites everyone loves to pop into their mouths.

Step 3: Chill the Cake Balls

Once your cake balls are shaped, place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and chill in the refrigerator for an hour. This resting period firms them up so they hold their shape beautifully when you dip them into the melted chocolate — trust me, it’s a crucial step you don’t want to skip.

Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate Coating

While the cake balls chill, prepare your melting chocolate. Set up a double boiler by placing your white chocolate wafers in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Add about one tablespoon of Crisco shortening to the melting chocolate to keep it silky and smooth for easy dipping. Stir constantly to avoid clumps and achieve that flawless coat.

Step 5: Dip and Cover Each Cake Ball

Using dipping tools or two forks, carefully submerge each chilled cake ball into the melted white chocolate, making sure to cover it completely. Roll the cake ball around so every inch is coated in that glossy shell, then place it back on parchment paper. This step is where your treat transforms into a little work of art.

Step 6: Chill Again

Pop the dipped balls back into the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to let the white chocolate set firmly before moving on to the next decorating step.

Step 7: Melt the Red Candy Coating

Repeat the double boiler melting process with the red candy wafers, stirring in the remaining tablespoon of Crisco to keep things smooth. This red drizzle will add the perfect finishing touch, bringing that iconic red velvet look to your cake balls.

Step 8: Decorate with Red Drizzle

Transfer the melted red candy coating into a piping bag or small resealable plastic bag with a tiny corner snipped off. Drizzle the red chocolate over each cake ball in graceful, side-to-side motions. It’s the little splash of bold color that will wow anyone lucky enough to try them.

Step 9: Final Chill Before Serving

Once the drizzle is done, chill your Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe again for 20 minutes so all layers set perfectly, giving you that satisfying crunch followed by irresistible softness with every bite.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe

The image shows a baking tray lined with white parchment paper holding twenty small round treats. Each treat has a smooth white coating that looks like chocolate or icing. On top of each treat, there are thin, wavy red lines drizzled in a zigzag pattern. The tray sits on a white marbled surface with a striped black and white cloth partially visible on the left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of edible glitter or red sugar crystals over the drizzle before the final chill. You could also press tiny white chocolate chips or festive sprinkles into the wet chocolate coating for a holiday-ready look. The key is enhancing their charm without overpowering the decadent red velvet flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve these cake balls alongside a creamy latte or a glass of cold milk for a perfect pairing. They also shine as part of a dessert platter with fresh berries or alongside mini cupcakes, providing a sweet bite that balances beautifully against fruit’s lightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond just plates: arrange your Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe on a tiered dessert stand for a chic party display, or wrap individual bites in colorful cellophane with ribbons for delightful edible gifts. You can even stick a mini wooden or decorative pick into each ball to make them easy to grab and enjoy during gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly sealed, they should stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, offering a convenient sweet treat ready to brighten your day whenever you want.

Freezing

Want to keep them even longer? Red Velvet Cake Balls freeze wonderfully! Lay them on parchment paper in a single layer to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored frozen for up to two months without losing their charm.

Reheating

When you’re ready to indulge, simply let frozen cake balls thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Serve them chilled or bring to room temperature for a softer bite. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the chocolate coating and cream cheese center.

FAQs

Can I use homemade red velvet cake instead of mix?

Absolutely! If you have your favorite red velvet cake recipe or leftovers, you can easily substitute homemade cake as long as it’s cooled and crumbled before mixing with cream cheese. It adds a lovely personal touch to this easy recipe.

Why do I need to heat treat the cake mix?

Heat treating the cake mix means fully baking it so it’s safe to eat. Red velvet cake mix alone isn’t edible, so baking ensures your final cake balls have the right texture and taste while being completely safe to enjoy.

Can I use butter instead of Crisco for melting chocolate?

While some use butter, Crisco shortening melts smoothly without altering the flavor or texture of the chocolate. It keeps the coatings glossy and easier to work with, which is crucial for that perfect finish.

How do I prevent the chocolate from hardening too fast?

Melting chocolate over a double boiler and stirring in Crisco helps maintain a smooth, workable consistency. Avoid overheating, and keep the bowl over gentle heat while dipping, so the chocolate stays fluid enough to coat evenly.

Can I skip the red drizzle decoration?

Of course! The white chocolate coating on its own is delicious and elegant. The red drizzle is simply a fun, festive extra that enhances appearance and adds a pop of color, but feel free to customize your cake balls as you like.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making these Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe — they’re both simple to prepare and spectacular to share. Whether you’re gifting them, serving at a party, or just treating yourself, these cake balls deliver that perfect combination of flavor, texture, and visual delight. Give them a try, and I promise they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

Author: Sara
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 20 servings

Print Recipe

Description

These delightful Red Velvet Cake Balls combine moist red velvet cake with creamy cream cheese, coated in smooth white chocolate and decorated with red candy melts. Perfect bite-sized treats for parties or a special dessert.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 box red velvet cake mix (heat treated as per notes)
8 oz block of cream cheese, softened at room temperature

Coating and Decoration

2 cups white chocolate melting wafers
¾ cup red candy melting wafers
2 tablespoons Crisco shortening, divided

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Instructions

Prepare the workspace: Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper and set aside to place the cake balls on during chilling and coating.
Mix cake and cream cheese: In a small mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the heat-treated red velvet cake mix with the softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Form cake balls: Using a 1-inch cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll each scoop into smooth, round balls approximately 1 to 1½ inches in diameter using the palms of your hands. Continue until all mixture is used.
Chill the cake balls: Place the formed balls on the parchment-lined cookie sheet and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
Prepare white chocolate coating: About 5-10 minutes before the cake balls finish chilling, place the white chocolate wafers in a large heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pot of boiling water (double boiler) on the stovetop.
Melt chocolate: Stir the white wafers frequently with a rubber spatula to ensure even melting. Add 1 to 1½ tablespoons of Crisco shortening and continue stirring until the chocolate is smooth, silky, and fully melted. Remove from heat once done.
Coat cake balls with white chocolate: Using two forks or dipping tools, dip each chilled cake ball into the melted white chocolate, rolling it fully to coat. Place coated balls back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
Refrigerate coated balls: Place the sheet with coated balls back in the refrigerator and chill for 20 minutes to allow the coating to set.
Melt red candy melts: Repeat the double boiler process with the red candy melting wafers, adding the remaining Crisco shortening. Stir until the red chocolate is silky smooth and fully melted, then remove from heat.
Decorate cake balls: Transfer the melted red chocolate to a piping bag or small Ziploc bag. Pipe decorative red lines over each coated cake ball by moving the bag side to side.
Final chilling: After decorating, chill the cake balls in the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes to set the decoration before serving.

Notes

Heat treating the red velvet cake mix is necessary to make it safe for no-bake consumption as done in this recipe.
Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing.
Crisco shortening helps achieve a smooth and glossy chocolate coating.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during chilling and coating.
Handling chocolate on a double boiler prevents scorching and maintains smooth texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American