Save A playful and decadent treat combining the sweet fizz of cream soda, sharp cheddar, and crunchy pretzels, all wrapped in a moist cake ball with a chocolate monster finish—perfect for parties or Halloween.
When I made these for our Halloween party, the kids went wild for the candy eyes and bright colors. Even adults were caught sneaking second helpings thanks to the intriguing mix of cheddar and cream soda!
Ingredients
- Cake: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened), 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup cream soda (room temperature), 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt
- Mix-in & Filling: 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, preferably aged), 3/4 cup pretzels (crushed)
- Frosting (for binding): 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 2 tbsp cream soda, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Coating & Decoration: 16 oz semisweet or white chocolate (chopped or in chips), assorted colored candy melts (green, purple, orange, etc.), candy eyes, extra crushed pretzels (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan.
- Mix Batter:
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Cream Soda:
- Mix in vanilla extract. Alternate adding flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt with cream soda, mixing just until combined.
- Add Cheese & Pretzels:
- Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and crushed pretzels.
- Bake:
- Pour batter into pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Make Frosting:
- Beat butter until creamy, gradually add powdered sugar, cream soda, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Form Cake Balls:
- Crumble cooled cake into a bowl. Add frosting and mix until mixture holds together. Scoop and roll into 1.5-inch balls, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Coating:
- Melt chocolate and candy melts in separate bowls using a microwave or double boiler.
- Decorate:
- Dip each cake ball into melted chocolate or colored melts, let excess drip off, and place back on parchment. While coating is wet, add candy eyes and sprinkle with crushed pretzels for monster decorations.
- Chill & Serve:
- Chill until set. Serve at room temperature.
Save My daughter helped stick every candy eye in place, giggling at their googly expressions. These became the talk of our dessert table, bringing loads of smiles and laughter to family and friends.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, hand mixer or stand mixer, 8-inch baking pan, parchment paper, microwave or double boiler, baking sheet, scoop or spoon for portioning, fork or dipping tool.
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), dairy (cheddar, butter), eggs. May contain: Soy or nuts in candy melts or decorations—always double-check labels and packed ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Each cake ball: 170 calories, 8 g total fat, 21 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein.
Save Serve these mischievous monster cake balls with a cold glass of cream soda for a whimsical party treat. Their irresistible blend of sweet and savory will keep guests coming back for more!
Recipe FAQ
- → What flavor does cream soda add?
Cream soda brings a subtle sweetness and light vanilla undertones that complement the cheddar and pretzels nicely.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, smoked cheddar or milder cheeses work well. For extra tang, try sharp or aged cheddar as suggested.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, all listed ingredients are vegetarian. Check candy melts for additional allergens or additives.
- → How should I store cake balls?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days for optimal freshness.
- → Can I swap cream soda with another soda?
Root beer is a great substitute for cream soda, adding a different flavor twist without altering texture.
- → How do I achieve a smooth chocolate coating?
Melt chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave, and dip each cake ball using a fork or dipping tool for even coverage.