If you love Starbucks’ iconic cake pops, you’re in for a treat! This homemade copycat recipe lets you recreate those irresistible bite-sized delights right in your own kitchen. Soft, flavorful cake balls on a stick, coated in smooth pink candy melts and topped with sprinkles – these cake pops are a fun and festive dessert perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be enjoying homemade cake pops in no time.

Starbucks Cake Pops

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Starbucks Cake Pops recipe is a fantastic way to indulge in a beloved treat from your favorite coffee shop – but with the bonus of making it yourself at home! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and you can personalize it to suit your tastes. The combination of a light and moist cake center with a sweet candy coating makes every bite delightful. Plus, these cake pops are perfect for parties, gifts, or a fun baking project with the kids. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, this recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box classic cake mix (ingredients called for on box to make the cake)
3 tablespoons vanilla frosting (pre-made)
24-36 cake pop sticks or lollipop sticks
12 oz pink candy melts
White sprinkles (for decoration)

Directions

Prepare the Cake: Bake the cake according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Once baked, allow the cake to cool at room temperature.
Crumble the Cake: Remove the cake from the pan. Discard the brown outside layer and crumble the remaining cake into a large bowl.
Add Frosting: Stir the vanilla frosting into the crumbled cake until well combined. The frosting helps bind the cake mixture together and gives it a smooth consistency.
Shape Cake Balls: Use a cookie scoop to form the mixture into 24-36 cake balls, depending on your preferred size. Place them on a lined cookie sheet.
Prepare the Candy Coating: Place the pink candy melts into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the candy melts are completely smooth and creamy.
Insert the Sticks: Dip each cake pop stick into the melted candy, then insert it about halfway into each cake ball. This helps the stick adhere better. Place the cake pops in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
Coat the Cake Pops: Once the cake pops are chilled, dip each one into the melted candy coating. Be sure to cover the cake pop completely. Allow any excess candy coating to drip off back into the bowl.
Decorate with Sprinkles: Before the candy coating hardens, immediately add white sprinkles for a festive touch.
Dry the Cake Pops: Place the cake pops stick-side down into a block of styrofoam or a cake pop stand, allowing the candy coating to fully dry and solidify.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the candy coating is dry, your cake pops are ready to serve!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cake pops
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Freeze Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Coating: Instead of using pink candy melts, you can opt for dark or milk chocolate to coat your cake pops. This will give them a richer, more decadent flavor.
Flavor Twist: Try using different cake mix flavors, such as chocolate, red velvet, or funfetti, to customize your cake pops. You can also mix in flavored frosting, such as cream cheese or chocolate buttercream, for added depth of flavor.
Decorations: You can get creative with your cake pops’ toppings! Use colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or drizzle on some melted white chocolate for extra flair.
Mini Cake Pops: If you prefer smaller treats, reduce the size of the cake balls and make mini cake pops. These are perfect for bite-sized indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store your cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’re keeping them for longer, place them in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Cake pops freeze well for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating: Since cake pops are meant to be enjoyed at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat them. Just let them sit out for a few minutes before serving if they’ve been stored in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

How do I make sure the cake pops don’t fall off the stick?

To ensure the cake pops stay on the stick, dip the stick in melted candy before inserting it into the cake ball. This creates a better seal and helps the stick stay in place.

Can I use homemade cake for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade cake, you can substitute the box mix with your favorite recipe. Just be sure to let it cool completely before crumbling it into the frosting.

Why did my cake pops crack after coating them in candy melts?

If the candy coating is too thick or the cake pops are too cold, they can crack. Make sure the candy melts are at the right temperature (smooth and creamy, not too thick) and that the cake pops are slightly at room temperature before dipping them.

Can I use different colored candy melts?

Yes, you can use any color of candy melts you’d like to match the theme of your event or to add variety. Red, blue, or even multicolored candy melts will make the cake pops fun and festive!

Can I make these cake pops ahead of time?

Yes, you can make cake pops ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge until you’re ready to serve them.

How can I make the cake pops look more professional?

To get a smooth, glossy finish, ensure that the candy melts are fully melted and smooth. Also, adding sprinkles or drizzling another color of melted candy over the top can give your cake pops a polished look.

Can I add other fillings inside the cake pops?

Definitely! You can add a surprise filling inside your cake pops, such as chocolate ganache, fruit jam, or flavored cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Can I use different types of frosting?

Yes, while vanilla frosting is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types of frosting, like chocolate or even flavored buttercream, to create a unique flavor profile for your cake pops.

How can I make cake pops for a large crowd?

To make a larger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients. You’ll need more cake mix, frosting, and candy melts, but the steps remain the same.

How do I prevent the candy coating from dripping too much?

Allow any excess candy to drip off the cake pop after dipping it, and ensure the candy coating is not too thick. If it’s too thick, it will drip more than desired.

Conclusion

Homemade Starbucks Cake Pops are not only delicious, but they are a fun, creative treat that you can easily make at home. Whether you’re hosting a party, baking with the kids, or just craving something sweet, these cake pops are sure to satisfy. With a little time and effort, you can enjoy the same indulgent flavors that you love from Starbucks, but with the added joy of making them yourself!