Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Name: Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 pops
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water; 1 cup vanilla frosting; 1 cup candy melts (white chocolate); Sprinkles for decoration

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the sweet and joyful experience of these Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops, perfect for any celebration!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-21T06:50:57.155Z

These Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops are a festive treat that captures the essence of celebration in every bite. Soft vanilla cake combined with creamy frosting, coated in colorful chocolate, makes them a perfect addition to any party.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly moist cake with a creamy frosting center
Fun, colorful presentation that delights all ages
Easily customizable for any occasion or flavor

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Birthday Cake Pops are not just for birthdays; they are a delightful treat that can elevate any celebration. Whether it's a wedding, graduation, or holiday gathering, these cake pops add a touch of festive cheer. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, their vibrant colors and fun decorations make them an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table.

Making these treats at home allows you to customize them to match the theme of your event. You can choose different colors of sprinkles or even flavor the cake with your favorite extracts like almond or lemon. This versatility means that no matter what the celebration is, your cake pops can be the perfect fit.

Tips for Perfect Cake Pops

To ensure your cake pops turn out perfectly, it’s essential to crumble the cake finely. Any large chunks can cause uneven coating and might make the cake pops fall off the stick. After mixing in the frosting, the mixture should hold together well but not be overly sticky. If it is, consider adding a bit more cake to balance it out.

When melting the candy melts, be cautious not to overheat them, as this can cause them to seize. Stir frequently and heat in short intervals to maintain a smooth consistency. If the coating is too thick, you can add a small amount of vegetable shortening to thin it out, making it easier to coat the cake balls.

Storing Your Cake Pops

Once your cake pops have set, you may want to store them for later enjoyment. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to store them for a longer period, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness. Just be aware that refrigeration may cause the coating to become a bit dull.

If you plan to transport your cake pops, it's best to place them upright in a cake pop stand or a container filled with rice or foam to keep them stable. This way, your beautiful creations will arrive intact and ready to impress your guests!

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you begin!

Cake Pops

1 box vanilla cake mix
3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
1 cup vanilla frosting
1 cup candy melts (white chocolate)
Sprinkles for decoration

Ensure everything is at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cake pops!

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions, mixing the cake mix, eggs, oil, and water. Bake in a greased 9x13 inch pan for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Cake Balls

Crumble the cooled cake into a large bowl. Mix in the vanilla frosting until fully combined. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 30 minutes to set.

Coat the Cake Pops

Melt the candy melts according to package instructions. Dip the end of a lollipop stick into the melted candy, then insert it into the center of each cake ball. Dip each cake ball into the melted candy, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on the baking sheet and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles.

Set and Serve

Allow the cake pops to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the coating is firm. Serve them on a cake pop stand or in a decorative container.

Enjoy your homemade Starbucks-inspired cake pops!

Variations to Try

While vanilla cake pops are delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cake flavors. Chocolate, red velvet, or even funfetti can add exciting twists. You can also try using flavored frosting to complement the cake flavor, creating a rich and delightful combination.

For a unique touch, consider dipping your cake pops in dark or milk chocolate instead of the traditional candy melts. This adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cake and frosting.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation plays a key role in the enjoyment of cake pops. Serve them in a decorative container filled with colorful candy or sprinkles for an added visual appeal. Alternatively, place them in a cake pop stand for a more organized display that guests can easily access.

You can also consider pairing cake pops with beverages like milk, coffee, or hot chocolate for a delightful treat experience. The combination of flavors can elevate the indulgence, making it a memorable moment for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cake mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate, red velvet, or any flavor you love.

→ 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 uncoated cake balls. Just thaw them in the fridge before coating.

→ What can I use instead of candy melts?

You can use tempered chocolate if you prefer a more gourmet option.