Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cake Bites

Red Velvet Cake Bites are the ultimate answer to the timeless cake dilemma: how to enjoy the flavors and indulgence of cake without the leftovers. Perfectly portioned, poppable, and downright delicious, these gluten-free Red Velvet Cake Bites are ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any celebration. Made with a rich red velvet cake base, cream cheese frosting, and a festive white chocolate coating, these little treats will impress without creating waste.

Why Cake Bites Are the Perfect Treat

Cake bites combine all the indulgence of cake into perfectly portioned bites, minimizing leftovers. With the rise of mini desserts, cake bites have become a go-to for both casual get-togethers and elegant gatherings. Not only are they portion-controlled, but they’re also easy to serve and carry (no plates or forks needed!). Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them the ideal treat to prep ahead and enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

If you’re a fan of bite-sized treats, you might also enjoy my Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites or Cranberry Pistachio Energy Bites perfect for holiday snacking.

Ingredients

• Red Velvet Cake Mix: I used a gluten-free red velvet cake recipe from Meaningful Eats, but feel free to use your favorite boxed mix or homemade red velvet cake recipe.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds moisture and a rich tangy flavor that perfectly complements the red velvet.
• White Chocolate Melting Wafers: For the coating, you’ll need a high-quality white chocolate. Melting wafers or almond bark are ideal for an even, smooth coating.
• Red Sprinkles: A festive topping inspired by the classic look of red velvet and the holiday season!

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

• Follow the instructions for your red velvet cake mix or recipe. If using the gluten-free recipe linked above, prepare the batter and bake according to those directions.
• Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool slightly until it’s just warm to the touch.

2. Crumble and Combine

• When the cake is warm (but not hot), crumble it into a large mixing bowl.
• Add ½ cup of cream cheese frosting to the crumbled cake and mix until everything is evenly combined. The frosting will add moisture and help bind the cake crumbles into a smooth, moldable mixture.

3. Form Cake Bites

• Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the cake mixture and roll it into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
• Place the cake balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper.

4. Freeze the Cake Balls

• Place the baking sheet with cake balls in the freezer for at least 1 hour. Freezing helps the cake bites stay firm during the dipping process and makes them easier to handle.

5. Dip in White Chocolate

• Melt the white chocolate wafers according to package instructions. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each cake ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely.
• Place the dipped cake bites back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and immediately add sprinkles or other toppings before the chocolate sets.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: These cake bites will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 weeks. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.

Festive Ideas for Red Velvet Cake Bites

These Red Velvet Cake Bites are as versatile as they are delicious! Here are a few ways to customize and present them for different occasions:

1. Holiday-Themed Toppings
   • Dipping these cake bites in white chocolate and adding red sprinkles gives them a classic, festive look. You could also try crushed peppermint, mini chocolate chips, or gold dust for a more sophisticated appearance.
2. Mini Gift Boxes
   • Package a few cake bites in mini gift boxes for a unique holiday gift. Pair them with other treats like Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies or Elf-Inspired Spaghetti Squash Bites for a fun, diverse treat box.
3. Customize for Any Occasion
   • Though perfect for the holidays, these cake bites can be adapted for any celebration. For a birthday, dip them in milk or dark chocolate and add rainbow sprinkles. For a spring gathering, add pastel-colored sprinkles or a drizzle of pink chocolate.

A Sweet Tribute to White Christmas

The festive look of these Red Velvet Cake Bites is inspired by my mom’s favorite holiday movie, White Christmas. I made these for her birthday, which falls just before Christmas, and dipping them in white chocolate felt like a fun nod to the snowy scenes and classic holiday spirit of the film. It’s these little touches that make holiday baking so special.

If you’re also a fan of bringing movie-inspired treats to life, check out my Elf Movie-Inspired Spaghetti Squash Bites, another whimsical holiday recipe inspired by one of our favorite films.

Why Gluten-Free Cake Bites?

Finding gluten-free options for classic desserts is something I’m passionate about. I identified I had a gluten intolerance in my mid 20’s and since have been on a mission to recreate some of my favorite baked goods.

Red velvet cake, with its rich, velvety crumb, can be difficult to achieve without gluten. But this gluten-free adaptation tastes just as satisfying as the original. Whether you or someone you love has a gluten sensitivity, this recipe ensures that everyone at your celebration can enjoy a classic, beloved dessert.

For more gluten-free holiday treats, check out my Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites or Gluten-Free Oatmeal Chai Cookies These recipes offer both classic holiday flavors and wholesome, gluten-free ingredients.

Tips for Success

• Use Quality Melting Chocolate
  • High-quality melting wafers or almond bark are ideal for coating because they create a smooth, glossy finish. Avoid using regular chocolate chips, as they don’t melt as easily and can create a thicker coating.
• Freezing the Cake Bites
  • Freezing the cake bites before dipping is essential for keeping them intact while coating in chocolate. If they start to soften, return them to the freezer for a few minutes before continuing.
• Keep It Simple
  • If you’re short on time, skip the homemade cake and use a gluten-free cake mix. Just be sure to follow any gluten-free substitutions or use the Meaningful Eats recipe as a guide to ensure a moist, flavorful cake base.

More Bite-Sized Delights for the Holidays

These cake bites are a fantastic addition to any holiday dessert table or treat box, but if you’re looking to expand your holiday spread, here are a few more crowd-pleasers:

• 2025 Holiday Cookie Box: For a variety of festive treats, perfect for gifting.
• Elf-Inspired Spaghetti Squash Bites: A savory, fun appetizer inspired by a holiday favorite.
• White Chocolate Pretzel & Peanut Stacks: An irresistible mix of sweet and salty flavors.

Whether for a holiday gathering, a birthday, or just because, these Red Velvet Cake Bites will be a festive, delicious treat everyone will love.

Print