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Starbucks Cake Pops Recipe

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Recreate the iconic Starbucks cake pops at home with this easy, step-by-step recipe! These bite-sized treats feature moist, flavorful cake mixed with frosting, dipped in a smooth candy coating, and finished with sprinkles. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

For the cake:

  • 1 box vanilla or chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
  • OR your favorite homemade cake recipe

For the frosting:

  • 1/3 cup (75 g) frosting (vanilla or chocolate)

For the coating:

  • 2 cups (340 g) candy melts (white, pink, or chocolate)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional, for thinning)

For decoration:

  • Sprinkles or nonpareils
  • Cake pop sticks (available at craft stores or online)

Instructions

  • Bake the cake:
    • Prepare the cake batter according to the package directions or your homemade recipe.
    • Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish and bake as directed.
    • Let the cake cool completely before moving on to the next step.
  • Crumble the cake:
    • Once the cake is cool, crumble it into fine crumbs using your hands or a fork. Transfer the crumbs to a large mixing bowl.
  • Add frosting:
    • Add the frosting to the cake crumbs, starting with 1/4 cup and increasing as needed. Mix until the cake crumbs stick together when pressed. The mixture should be moist but not overly sticky.
  • Shape the cake balls:
    • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cake mixture and roll it into a smooth ball using your hands.
    • Place the cake balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
  • Melt the candy coating:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the candy melts according to the package instructions. Stir every 30 seconds to prevent overheating. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil or coconut oil to thin the mixture, if needed.
  • Assemble the cake pops:
    • Dip the tip of each cake pop stick into the melted candy coating, then insert it into the center of each cake ball (about halfway through). This helps secure the stick.
    • Return the cake pops to the freezer for 10 minutes to allow the coating to set.
  • Dip and decorate:
    • Holding the stick, dip each cake pop into the melted candy coating, rotating to coat it evenly. Gently tap off any excess coating.
    • Immediately decorate with sprinkles or toppings before the coating sets. Place the cake pops upright in a foam block or cake pop stand to dry completely.
  • Serve and enjoy:
    • Once the candy coating has hardened, the cake pops are ready to serve.

Notes

  • Storage: Store cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: Cake pops (without coating) can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before coating and decorating.
  • Customization: Use different cake and frosting combinations, like red velvet with cream cheese frosting or chocolate cake with chocolate ganache.