For a perfect fall treat, mix spice cake and apples with frosting to form cake balls. Then dip them in caramel coating and let the kids go nuts, rolling them in peanuts.
—TASTE OF HOME TEST KITCHEN
PREP: 1 HOUR + FREEZING • BAKE: 25 MIN. + COOLING • MAKES: 39 CAKE POPS
1package spice cake mix (regular size)
1 1/2 cups finely chopped peeled tart apples
1/4cup packed brown sugar
2tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons heavy whipping cream
2tablespoons butter
1/2cup confectioners’ sugar
2packages (11 ounces each) Kraft caramel bits
1/4cup water
39lollipop sticks
1cup finely chopped salted peanuts
1. Prepare the cake mix batter according to package directions, adding the apples after mixing. Pour into two greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans. Bake according to package directions. Cool completely.
2. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, cream and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat; cool for 5 minutes. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Crumble one cake layer into a large bowl. (Save remaining cake for another use.) Add brown sugar mixture; mix well. Shape into 1-in. balls. Arrange on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.
4. In a large saucepan, combine caramel bits and water. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until smooth. Dip ends of the lollipop sticks into caramel and insert into cake balls. Dip balls in caramel; roll bottoms in peanuts. Let stand until set. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.