The Story & Intro
Every winter growing up in Crete, my grandmother would fill our home with the cozy scent of baked treats, even though peppermint wasn’t common in traditional Greek desserts. Years later, when I first tasted gluten-free peppermint cake pops at a holiday gathering in the U.S., something instantly clicked. The cool peppermint, the sweet chocolate coating, and that soft cake center reminded me of those joyful kitchen moments from childhood just with a festive, modern twist.
Now, these gluten-free peppermint cake pops have become one of my favorite holiday recipes to share. I love how they bring people together, especially women who enjoy creating something special with their hands. These little treats may look fancy, but don’t worry they’re simple, fun, and perfect even if your kitchen gets a little messy like mine often does. Whether you’re baking for kids, friends, or a holiday party, gluten-free peppermint cake pops always disappear fast. And yes, they’re proof that gluten-free desserts can be just as indulgent, joyful, and unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Peppermint Cake Pops
These cake pops are soft, moist, and packed with refreshing peppermint flavor. They’re festive enough for Christmas, elegant enough for dessert tables, and fun enough for kids’ parties. Plus, since they’re gluten-free, everyone can enjoy them without worry.
You’ll love that:
- They’re completely gluten-free
- Perfect for gifting and parties
- Easy to customize with colors and toppings
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead prep
- Light, fluffy, and coated in smooth chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the gluten-free cake:
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk (or dairy-free milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the cake pop mixture:
- ¾ cup gluten-free vanilla frosting
For coating and decorating:
- 12 oz white chocolate or candy melts
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional for extra flavor)
- Crushed candy canes
- Red and green sprinkles
- Lollipop sticks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using a hand mixer until fluffy and pale. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix just until combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
Once cooled, crumble the cake into fine crumbs using your hands or a food processor. Add the gluten-free frosting a little at a time and mix until the texture becomes moist and dough-like.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the freezer for at least 20 minutes until firm.
Melt the white chocolate according to package instructions. Stir in a little peppermint extract if desired.
Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into melted chocolate, then insert it halfway into each cake ball. Return to the freezer for 10 minutes to secure.
Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, gently tap off the excess, and immediately decorate with crushed candy canes or sprinkles. Place upright in a foam block or cup to dry.
Let the cake pops set completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these gluten-free peppermint cake pops chilled or at room temperature. They’re perfect for:
- Holiday dessert trays
- Cookie exchanges
- Kids’ parties
- Baby showers
- Sweet edible gifts
Wrap them individually in clear treat bags with ribbon for an irresistible handmade gift.
Storage Tips
Store cake pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 6 weeks. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
100-Word Short Version of the Recipe
These gluten-free peppermint cake pops are festive, flavorful, and easy to make. Soft peppermint-infused cake is mixed with vanilla frosting, rolled into bite-sized balls, and dipped in smooth white chocolate. Topped with crushed candy canes or sprinkles, they’re perfect for holidays, gifting, and parties. Best of all, they’re completely gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture. Inspired by cozy memories from my kitchen, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create joyful moments. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, you’ll love how fun and rewarding these cake pops are to make and share.
Recipe Card
Time Cook
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
Gluten-free flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, peppermint extract, baking powder, salt, frosting, white chocolate, candy canes, sprinkles
Instruction
Bake cake, crumble, mix with frosting, roll into balls, chill, dip in chocolate, decorate, and set.
Note
Use high-quality gluten-free flour for best texture.
Nutrition
Approx. 120 calories per cake pop
Helpful Tips for Perfect Cake Pops
- Don’t overmix the frosting into the cake crumbs.
- Always chill the cake balls before dipping.
- If chocolate thickens, reheat gently.
- Work in small batches for clean coating.
Conclusion
These gluten-free peppermint cake pops are more than just a dessert—they’re small bites of celebration, love, and creativity. Every time I make them, I think about those joyful kitchen moments with my grandmother in Crete, even though peppermint wasn’t part of our tradition back then. Now, these cake pops are part of my own modern tradition, shared with friends, family, and readers like you. If you’re looking for something festive, gluten-free, and truly special, this recipe will never disappoint. I hope these sweet little treats bring warmth, smiles, and beautiful memories to your home.