There’s something magical about bite-sized desserts that bring people together, especially when they’re as festive and fun as New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops. Picture this: the countdown begins, the room fills with laughter, and everyone reaches for a sweet, sparkly treat that looks just like the iconic Times Square ball. These little bites are more than just dessert—they’re a delicious part of the celebration, a moment of joy wrapped in gold and silver sprinkles.
If you’re looking for a standout addition to your New Year’s Eve party desserts, these cake ball drops are it. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these sweet treats bring that celebratory sparkle right to your table.
Table of Contents
New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
These festive New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops are bite-sized desserts that bring people together. Picture this: the countdown begins, the room fills with laughter, and everyone reaches for a sweet, sparkly treat that looks just like the iconic Times Square ball. These little bites are more than just dessert—they’re a delicious part of the celebration, a moment of joy wrapped in gold and silver sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 36 cake balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow or white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for extra flavor depth)
- 12 ounces of white chocolate or vanilla candy melts
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (to help thin the chocolate for smooth dipping)
- Gold and silver sprinkles, edible glitter, or shimmer dust
- Optional: lollipop sticks for a classic cake pop presentation
Instructions
- Bake and cool the cake: Prepare the cake mix according to package directions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool completely—this is crucial! A warm cake will turn into mush when mixed with frosting.
- Crumble and mix: Once the cake is cool, crumble it into fine crumbs in a large bowl. Add the cream cheese frosting and vanilla extract, then mix until the mixture holds together when pressed. It should feel like a soft, moldable dough.
- Shape the balls: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the mixture, then roll it into smooth, round balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the balls for at least 1 hour, or freeze for 20–30 minutes. This step is non-negotiable—it ensures the balls hold their shape during dipping.
- Melt the coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate or candy melts with coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fluid.
- Dip and decorate: Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully coat each ball in the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place them back on the parchment and immediately add gold and silver sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
- Let them set: Allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, a quick 10-minute chill in the fridge will speed things up.
Notes
Pro tip: If the cake mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before rolling. Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Ingredients List for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops start with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You likely have many of these items on hand already, which makes this recipe a breeze to pull off last-minute.
For the cake balls:
- 1 box of yellow or white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for extra flavor depth)
For the coating and decoration:
- 12 ounces of white chocolate or vanilla candy melts
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (to help thin the chocolate for smooth dipping)
- Gold and silver sprinkles, edible glitter, or shimmer dust
- Optional: lollipop sticks for a classic cake pop presentation
Smart swaps and variations:
- Gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free cake mix.
- Dairy-free? Swap the cream cheese frosting for a vegan buttercream and use dairy-free chocolate.
- Want a richer flavor? Try chocolate cake mix with chocolate frosting.
- Short on time? Use a pre-baked cake from the bakery section of your grocery store.
These ingredients are flexible, so feel free to get creative. The goal is to make a treat that feels festive and fits your taste—just like my No-bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls, which are another easy, no-fuss dessert perfect for sharing.
Timing for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
One of the best things about these New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops is how manageable they are, even on a busy holiday. While they do require a bit of patience for chilling, the active hands-on time is surprisingly short.
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Bake time: 25–30 minutes (for the cake)
- Chill time: 1–2 hours (can be done ahead)
- Decorating time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 2 hours, mostly unattended
Compared to many elaborate New Year’s Eve food ideas, these cake ball drops are relatively quick and straightforward. You can easily spread the steps over a day or two, making them a stress-free choice for your celebration.
Step-by-Step Instructions for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
Making these festive treats is a fun process, almost like a mini kitchen project. Follow these steps for perfectly shaped, beautifully coated New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops.
Bake and cool the cake: Prepare the cake mix according to package directions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool completely—this is crucial! A warm cake will turn into mush when mixed with frosting.
Crumble and mix: Once the cake is cool, crumble it into fine crumbs in a large bowl. Add the cream cheese frosting and vanilla extract, then mix until the mixture holds together when pressed. It should feel like a soft, moldable dough.
Shape the balls: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the mixture, then roll it into smooth, round balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the balls for at least 1 hour, or freeze for 20–30 minutes. This step is non-negotiable—it ensures the balls hold their shape during dipping.
Melt the coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate or candy melts with coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fluid.
Dip and decorate: Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully coat each ball in the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place them back on the parchment and immediately add gold and silver sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Let them set: Allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, a quick 10-minute chill in the fridge will speed things up.
Pro tip: If the cake mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before rolling. And if you love bite-sized desserts, you’ll also enjoy my Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites—they’re another crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties.
Nutritional Information for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
While these New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops are definitely a treat, it’s helpful to know what you’re enjoying. Here’s a general breakdown per cake ball (assuming recipe makes about 36 balls):
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 1g
These are rich in simple carbohydrates for quick energy—perfect for late-night celebrating! The vanilla extract adds a touch of antioxidants, and using coconut oil in the coating provides medium-chain triglycerides that some studies suggest can support metabolism.
Equipment Needed for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
You don’t need any fancy tools to make these festive New Year deserts. Here’s what I recommend:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Small cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Fork or cake pop dipping tool
That’s it! Simple tools for a spectacular result. If you’re making other New Years party desserts like my Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes, you’ll find much of the same equipment comes in handy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
There’s so much to adore about these little bites of joy. Here’s why they’ve become a staple in my holiday rotation:
- They’re incredibly festive: The gold and silver sprinkles instantly say “celebration,” making them perfect for your New Year’s Eve party food spread.
- Perfect for make-ahead: You can prepare these days in advance, leaving you free to enjoy the party.
- Kid-friendly fun: Children love helping roll the balls and add sprinkles—it’s like edible crafting.
- Customizable: Use different cake flavors, colors, and sprinkles to match your party theme.
- Portable and shareable: No plates or forks needed—just grab and enjoy.
They’re the dessert version of the ball drop: small, sparkling, and full of anticipation.
Healthier Alternatives for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
If you’re looking for lighter options, these New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops can easily be adapted:
- Reduced sugar: Use sugar-free cake mix and frosting, or substitute with applesauce for部分 of the oil in the cake.
- Gluten-free: Swap regular cake mix for a gluten-free version—most work beautifully.
- Dairy-free: Use vegan frosting and dairy-free chocolate chips for coating.
- Protein boost: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the cake mixture for extra staying power.
- Lower fat: Skip the candy coating and roll the balls in sprinkles or cocoa powder instead.
Remember, the goal is enjoyment—whether that means going all-out with glitter or keeping things simple and light. For another healthier sweet option, try my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars, which can be made with whole wheat flour and less sugar.
Serving Suggestions for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
Presentation is part of the fun with these New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops. Here are some ways to make them even more special:
- Create a “ball drop” display: Arrange them on a tiered stand with a countdown clock nearby.
- Pair with milk flutes: Serve with small glasses of cold milk—or champagne for adults—for a festive toast.
- Add to a dessert board: Combine with other New Years Eve sweet treats like cookies, fruits, and chocolates.
- Gift them: Place in clear treat bags tied with ribbon for adorable New Years Eve gift ideas.
- Coordinate with decorations: Match the sprinkles to your decoration for New Year theme.
However you serve them, these bites are sure to be a hit. They’re as versatile as they are delicious, much like my Pumpkin Cheese Ball, which can be sweet or savory depending on your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
Even experienced bakers can run into issues with cake balls. Here’s how to avoid the most common pitfalls:
- Using warm cake: This causes the frosting to melt, creating a greasy, dense texture. Always cool completely.
- Skipping the chill time: Without proper chilling, the balls can fall apart during dipping.
- Overheating the chocolate: This causes it to seize and become lumpy. Low and slow is the way to go.
- Adding too much frosting: Start with less—you can always add more. Too much makes the mixture sticky.
- Rushing the decorating: Add sprinkles immediately after dipping, before the chocolate sets.
With these tips in mind, your New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops will turn out perfectly every time.
Storing Tips for New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
These treats store beautifully, making them ideal for pre-party prep:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: They’ll keep for up to 1 week in the fridge—let come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Freezer: Place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Avoid humidity: Moisture can cause the sprinkles to bleed, so store in a dry place.
Whether you’re making them ahead or enjoying leftovers, these storing tips ensure your New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops stay fresh and delicious.
Conclusion
New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops are more than just a dessert—they’re edible confetti, a sweet celebration of the year ahead. With their sparkling appearance and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Simple to make yet impressive to serve, they prove that the best party foods often come in small packages.
I’d love to hear how your New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops turn out! Share your creations with me in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag @HarmonyMeal on Pinterest so I can see your festive presentations. However you celebrate, may your New Year be as sweet as these little treats.
For more dessert inspiration, check out my other holiday-friendly recipes like Pumpkin Cheese Ball and No-bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls—perfect for any gathering.
FAQs about New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops
What are New Years Eve Cake Ball Drops?
New Year’s Eve Cake Ball Drops are delightful, bite-sized dessert confections crafted from crumbled cake mixed with frosting, rolled into spheres, and typically dipped in chocolate or candy melts. For the festive occasion, they are often adorned with glitter, metallic sprinkles, or symbolic designs to celebrate the countdown.
How do you make cake balls for New Years Eve?
To make them, bake and cool your preferred cake, then crumble it finely. Mix the cake crumbs with a few spoonfuls of frosting until a dough-like consistency forms. Roll the mixture into small balls, chill thoroughly, then dip them into melted candy melts or chocolate, and decorate with New Year’s-themed embellishments.
Can New Years Eve cake balls be made ahead of time?
Yes, cake balls are an excellent make-ahead dessert! You can prepare the cake and frosting mixture, roll the balls, and store them chilled for up to a week, or freeze them for up to a month. Dip and decorate them closer to New Year’s Eve for optimal freshness and visual appeal.
How do you decorate cake balls for New Years?
For New Year’s, decorate cake balls with metallic gold or silver sprinkles, edible glitter, shimmery dusts, or star-shaped sprinkles. You can also drizzle them with contrasting colors of candy melts or craft intricate ‘countdown’ clock designs using edible markers or piping gel.
What’s the difference between cake balls and cake pops?
The main distinction lies in their presentation: cake balls are the standalone spherical treats, served directly. Cake pops are essentially cake balls with a lollipop stick inserted, making them easy to hold and consume, especially after being dipped and decorated. The foundational cake-and-frosting mixture is typically identical.
How long do New Years Eve cake balls last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, cake balls generally last for 5-7 days. If frozen, either undipped or dipped, they can maintain their quality for up to 1 month. For the best flavor and texture, allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
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