Starbucks Cake Pop Recipe (Easy Copycat)

Name: Starbucks Cake Pop Recipe (Easy Copycat)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cake pops
Ingredients: 1 box of chocolate cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1 cup of water; 1/2 cup of vegetable oil; 1 cup of frosting (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup of chocolate melting wafers; Sprinkles (optional); Lollipop sticks

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the delightful taste of Starbucks cake pops at home with this easy copycat recipe.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:49:31.799Z

This Starbucks cake pop recipe brings the coffee shop experience right to your kitchen. With a rich, moist cake center dipped in chocolate and decorated to perfection, these cake pops are sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent cake coated in rich chocolate
Customizable with your favorite sprinkles
Perfect for parties, gifts, or a sweet treat

      

The Joy of Homemade Cake Pops

There's something incredibly satisfying about making your own cake pops at home. Not only do you have complete control over the ingredients, but you can also experiment with flavors and decorations. This homemade version allows you to create a treat that’s personalized just for you or your loved ones. The process can be a fun activity for families or friends, making it a delightful bonding experience as you share the joys of baking.

Using a cake mix as the base simplifies the process, allowing even novice bakers to whip up these tasty treats with ease. In just a few steps, you can transform a simple chocolate cake into delicious, bite-sized pops that are sure to impress. The combination of cake and frosting creates a moist and flavorful center, while the chocolate coating adds a rich finish that is hard to resist.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cake pops are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply want a sweet treat for a cozy night in, cake pops fit the bill. They can be themed for different holidays or events, allowing you to customize them with seasonal decorations and colors. Imagine red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel colors for Easter—your creativity knows no bounds!

Additionally, cake pops make fantastic gifts. They travel well and can be packaged beautifully, making them an ideal choice for party favors or gifts for friends and family. The personal touch of homemade treats is always appreciated and adds a special sentiment to any occasion.

Tips for Cake Pop Perfection

To achieve the best results with your cake pops, ensure that your cake is completely cooled before crumbling it. This step is crucial as warm cake can lead to a gooey mixture that is difficult to shape. Refrigerating the formed balls for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during the dipping process. If you're short on time, a quick 15-minute freeze can also do the trick.

When melting chocolate, remember to do so in small increments to avoid burning. Stir frequently while melting to achieve a smooth consistency. If you find the chocolate too thick for dipping, a small amount of vegetable oil can be added to thin it out. This ensures a nice, even coating that will beautifully showcase your sprinkles and decorations.

Ingredients

For the Cake Pops

1 box of chocolate cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup of water
1/2 cup of vegetable oil
1 cup of frosting (store-bought or homemade)

For the Coating

1 cup of chocolate melting wafers
Sprinkles (optional)
Lollipop sticks

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Prepare the cake mix by combining the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil in a bowl. Mix until well combined. Bake according to the package instructions.

Crumble the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, crumble it into a large bowl. Add the frosting and mix until fully combined.

Form the Cake Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate wafers according to package instructions until smooth.

Dip and Decorate

Insert a lollipop stick into each cake ball, then dip into the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then add sprinkles if desired. Place on the parchment paper to set.

Let the cake pops sit until the chocolate has fully hardened.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your cake pops are set, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them; however, be aware that the chocolate coating may become dull when chilled. For longer storage, cake pops can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy frozen cake pops, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This way, you can have a sweet treat available whenever you crave something delicious!

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts about making cake pops at home is the ability to customize them to your taste. Consider using different cake flavors, such as vanilla, red velvet, or even funfetti, to switch things up. You can also experiment with various frostings, such as cream cheese or buttercream, to complement the cake flavor.

For the chocolate coating, try using different types of chocolate, such as white, milk, or dark chocolate. You can even add flavor extracts to the chocolate for an extra kick, like peppermint or orange. Don't forget to let your imagination run wild with the sprinkles and toppings—crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or colorful candy pieces can all add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cake pops on a decorative stand for a beautiful presentation that will wow your guests. You can also create a cake pop buffet, allowing everyone to choose their favorite flavors and toppings. This interactive element makes for a fun party activity, especially for kids.

Pair your cake pops with a hot beverage like coffee, hot chocolate, or tea for a cozy treat. They also make a great addition to dessert tables at events, providing a fun and unique alternative to traditional cakes and cupcakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you prefer!

→ How do I store leftover cake pops?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze cake pops?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after coating. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped.

→ What can I use instead of frosting?

You can use cream cheese or a similar filling if you prefer.