Craving something sweet but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? These no-bake chocolate cake balls are the perfect solution! This easy recipe delivers rich, decadent chocolate flavor in a bite-sized package, making it ideal for parties, holidays, or a simple afternoon pick-me-up. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly simple yet delightful homemade dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (Oreos recommended)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
- Sprinkles (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it, or using baking spray. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Crumble and Mix
Once the cake is completely cool, crumble it into a large bowl using your hands or a fork. Add the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Roll the cake mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get about 24-30 cake balls. If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a double boiler.
Step 5: Dip and Decorate
Dip each cake ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated. Place the dipped cake balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle with your favorite sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
Step 6: Chill and Enjoy!
Refrigerate the cake balls for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Once firm, these delightful treats are ready to be enjoyed! Store leftover cake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a devil's food cake mix instead of a regular chocolate cake mix.
- Add some nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a nice crunch.
- Get creative with decorations: Use different types of sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or even drizzle melted white chocolate for extra flair.
- Make it festive: Use holiday-themed sprinkles for special occasions.
- Make ahead: These cake balls can be made a day or two in advance.
Nutritional Information (per cake ball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This easy chocolate cake ball recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth quickly and easily. It's a fun project for baking with kids, and the results are always impressive. Enjoy these delicious and delightful treats!