Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Make the BEST Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops at home and you’ll think twice about buying one ever again! These delightful treats are perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence. With their moist cake center covered in colorful candy melts, they are sure to impress family and friends. Plus, making them at home means you can customize flavors and decorations to your liking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: This recipe uses a store-bought cake mix, making it simple for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of vanilla cake and creamy buttercream filling creates a rich flavor that rivals your favorite coffee shop.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual gathering, these cake pops are a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable Decor: You can use any color of candy melts and toppings to match the theme of your event.
• Great for Sharing: With about 30 servings, these cake pops are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops, make sure you have the right tools. Having the proper equipment will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking pan
• Lollipop sticks
• Styrofoam block (for drying)
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting candy melts)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Essential for easily crumbling the baked cake into fine pieces.
• Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
• Styrofoam block: Keeps your finished cake pops upright while they dry, ensuring a neat presentation.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops:

For the Cake

• 1- 13.25 oz any store-bought box of vanilla cake mix
• ⅓ cup neutral oil (vegetable, avocado, canola, etc.)
• 1 cup milk or water
• 4 large eggs

For the Buttercream Filling

• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch salt
• 1 tsp milk (add more if needed)

For Coating & Decorations

• 12 oz candy melts
• white nonpareils or sprinkles

How to Make Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 325-350℉ (162-175℃). Refer to recipe on cake box for exact temperature depending on your baking pan size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Combine all cake ingredients in a large bowl. Pour batter into greased/lined pan and transfer into oven. Stick a toothpick in the center of cake to see if it comes out clean 2-4 mins PRIOR to the end of bake time. DO NOT OVER BAKE.

Step 3: Crumble the Cake

Transfer baked cake into a large stand mixing bowl immediately while it’s still hot. Crumble cake on low speed using a paddle attachment until no large pieces remain. You can also use a handheld mixer or crumble slightly cooled cake by hand.

Step 4: Make the Buttercream Filling

In a small mixing bowl, combine all buttercream ingredients. Sifting powdered sugar is not necessary. Stir well until fairly smooth; small lumps are common. Add all the buttercream to the crumbled cake and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Forming Cake Pops

Roll cake pops approx 1¼-inch (3cm) in diameter or 30g each. Chill cake pops in freezer for 15 mins, then bring them back to room temperature for 10 mins as you melt your candy melt.

Step 6: Prepare Candy Melts

Melt a small amount of pink candy melts in microwave according to package instructions. The best way is to heat and stir in 15-30 sec increments until thin and smooth.

Step 7: Insert Lollipop Sticks

Dip tip of lollipop stick into candy melt, then gently insert dipped tip into the cake balls halfway in. Repeat with all cake balls, then chill again in freezer for 15 mins.

Step 8: Coat with Candy Melts

Take cake pops out of the freezer and bring them back to room temperature for 10 mins. Melt remaining candy melts until desired thin consistency. Dip cake pop into melted candy melt, ensuring it’s submerged all the way to the stick.

Step 9: Remove Excess Coating

Holding the stick with one hand, use your other hand to gently tap the cake pop until all excess candy melt has dripped off. Aim for one even coating; avoid dunking again as this may cause your cake pop to detach from the stick.

Step 10: Decorate Your Cake Pops

Quickly decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils before the coating sets. Place finished cake pops into a styrofoam block to keep them upright as they dry. Repeat until all cake pops are dipped and sprinkled.

Enjoy your homemade Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops! They’re sure to be a hit at any celebration!

How to Serve Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or just having a casual get-together, these cake pops will surely impress your guests.

Individual Treats

• Party Favors: Wrap each cake pop in clear cellophane and tie with a colorful ribbon for a fun party favor.
• Dessert Table: Arrange the cake pops on a dessert table alongside other sweets for an eye-catching display.

Themed Celebrations

• Birthday Parties: Use vibrant sprinkles that match your party theme to make the cake pops even more festive.
• Holiday Gatherings: Tailor the colors of the candy melts and decorations based on the holiday, like red and green for Christmas.

Snack Time

• Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Enjoy these cake pops with your afternoon coffee or tea for a sweet snack.
• Movie Night Treats: Serve them as bite-sized desserts during movie nights with friends and family.

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How to Perfect Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

To ensure your Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• use quality ingredients: Always choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your cake pops.
• chill properly: Make sure to chill the rolled cake balls before dipping. This helps them hold their shape.
• avoid over-melting candy: Heat candy melts in short intervals; overheating can cause them to seize up.
• tap gently: After dipping, tap off excess coating carefully to prevent drips and achieve a smooth finish.
• decorate quickly: Sprinkle decorations immediately after dipping while the coating is still wet for better adhesion.

Best Side Dishes for Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Pairing side dishes with Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops can elevate any occasion. Here are some great options that complement these sweet treats perfectly.

1. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake pops.
2. Mini Sandwiches: Bite-sized sandwiches make for a savory option that balances out the dessert flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs beautifully with sweet treats, adding variety to your spread.
4. Veggie Cups: Individual veggie cups with dip provide crunchiness and freshness alongside the rich cake pops.
5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These salty-sweet snacks are perfect companions for celebrating any special occasion.
6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae station where guests can create their own desserts alongside the cake pops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops can be simple, but a few common mistakes might hinder your success. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overbaking the Cake: It’s crucial not to leave the cake in the oven too long. Check a few minutes before the suggested baking time to ensure it stays moist and fluffy.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: If you don’t chill the cake pops before dipping, they might fall off the stick. Always freeze them for at least 15 minutes after rolling.
• Inconsistent Cake Pop Size: Rolling uneven-sized balls can lead to uneven cooking and presentation. Use a kitchen scale or measure carefully to maintain uniformity.
• Not Enough Coating: Ensure the cake pops are fully submerged in melted candy melts. This helps them adhere better to the stick and improves their appearance.
• Decorating Too Late: Sprinkles or nonpareils need to be added while the coating is still wet. Work quickly after dipping for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

• Freeze cake pops for up to 3 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap each pop individually in plastic wrap.

Reheating Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

• Oven: Place on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate; check frequently to avoid melting.
• Stovetop: Not recommended as it may ruin the coating and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops:

How do I make Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops?

To make these delicious cake pops, follow our detailed recipe that includes baking, crumbling, mixing with buttercream, shaping, and dipping.

Can I use different flavors of cake mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate, red velvet, or any flavor you love for your Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops.

How can I customize my cake pops?

You can customize your cake pops by using different colored candy melts or adding various sprinkles to match themes or occasions.

What should I do if my candy melts are too thick?

If your candy melts are too thick for dipping, try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening while melting to achieve a smoother consistency.

Final Thoughts

Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops are both delightful and versatile treats perfect for any occasion. They bring joy and sweetness to parties, celebrations, or even just when you’re craving something special. Feel free to customize flavors and decorations based on your preferences!