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 birthday parties, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence. With their moist cake center and colorful candy coating, they will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Plus, they’re fun to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients at home, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
• Fun for Everyone: Great for kids and adults alike, these cake pops can be customized with different colors and toppings.
• Perfect Portions: Each cake pop is a bite-sized treat, making them ideal for gatherings without overindulging.
• Versatile Flavor: While this recipe uses vanilla cake mix, feel free to experiment with other flavors to suit your taste.
• Creative Activity: Making cake pops is not only delicious but also a fun activity that can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Toothpick
• Lollipop sticks
• Styrofoam block (for drying)
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter and evenly crumbled cake without much effort.
• Baking pan: Ensures even baking of the cake, crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Styrofoam block: Keeps your cake pops upright while they dry, preventing them from toppling over.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops:

• 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
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch salt
• 1 tsp milk (add more if needed)
• 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 the recipe on the cake box for exact temperature depending on your baking pan size.

Step 2: Mix 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 the cake to see if it comes out clean 2–4 minutes prior to the end of bake time. DO NOT OVER BAKE.

Step 3: Crumble the Baked 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: Prepare 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: Form Cake Balls

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

Step 6: Insert Sticks into Cake Balls

Melt a small amount of pink candy melts in microwave according to package instructions. The best method is heating and stirring in 15–30 second increments until thin and smooth. 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 another 15 minutes.

Step 7: Dip Cake Pops in Candy Melt

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

Step 8: Remove Excess Candy Melt

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

Step 9: Decorate Your Cake Pops

Decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils quickly before they set. Place finished cake pops into a styrofoam block to keep them upright as they dry. Repeat this process until all cake pops are dipped and sprinkled.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops!

How to Serve Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a birthday party, a casual get-together, or just a sweet snack at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cake pop experience.

At a Birthday Party

• Colorful Display: Arrange the cake pops in a decorative stand or styrofoam block for a vibrant centerpiece.
• Themed Treats: Match the cake pop decorations to the party theme using specific colors or sprinkles.

As Party Favors

• Individual Wrapping: Package each cake pop in clear cellophane bags with colorful ribbons for guests to take home.
• Personalized Tags: Attach tags with the guest’s name and a thank-you note for a special touch.

With Coffee or Tea

• Perfect Pairing: Serve these cake pops alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Flavor Matching: Choose flavors that complement the beverage, like vanilla cake pops with floral teas.

During Movie Night

• Snack Bowl: Place them in a bowl for easy grabbing while enjoying your favorite films.
• Mix and Match: Pair different flavors of cake pops with popcorn for a fun snack combo.

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How to Perfect Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Creating perfect Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake pops come out looking and tasting amazing.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs, butter, and high-quality candy melts for the best flavor.
• Cool Completely: Ensure your baked cake is completely cool before crumbling; this helps achieve the right texture.
• Chill Before Dipping: Chilling the cake pops before dipping makes them easier to handle and prevents them from falling off the stick.
• Thin Candy Melts Properly: Melt candy melts until they reach a smooth consistency; adding oil can help if they are too thick.
• Quick Decoration: Add sprinkles immediately after dipping while the coating is still wet for better adhesion.
• Store Correctly: Keep finished cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you prefer them chilled.

Best Side Dishes for Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Pairing side dishes with your Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops can enhance any occasion. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of cake pops.
2. Mini Sandwiches: Bite-sized sandwiches provide savory contrast and keep guests satisfied at gatherings.
3. Veggie Platter: Crisp vegetables served with dip offer a healthy option alongside sweet treats.
4. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses complements the flavors of cake pops while adding variety to your spread.
5. Chocolate Fondue: A warm chocolate fondue can be an interactive dessert pairing for those who love extra sweetness.
6. Savory Scones: Lightly flavored scones provide an interesting texture contrast against the soft cake pops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops can be a fun experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results.

• Skipping Ingredient Temperature: Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can result in uneven mixing and texture.

• Overbaking the Cake: Keep an eye on baking time. Overbaking can dry out the cake, making it difficult to form pops. Check for doneness a few minutes early.

• Not Chilling the Pops: Failing to chill the cake pops before dipping can lead to them falling off the stick. Always allow them to firm up in the freezer.

• Using Thick Candy Melt: If your candy melt is too thick, it won’t coat well. Ensure it’s heated until smooth before dipping the pops for an even finish.

• Rushing Decoration: Be quick but careful when adding sprinkles or nonpareils after dipping. If you wait too long, the candy coating will set, causing decorations to not stick properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cake pops in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

• Freeze cake pops in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months.

Reheating Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cake pops on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one pop at a time for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat; rotate pops gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops, here are some common questions and answers.

How do I make Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops?

To make these delightful treats, follow the recipe closely, ensuring you mix well and chill properly between steps for best results.

What is the best way to decorate cake pops?

You can use sprinkles or nonpareils while the candy melt is still wet. This ensures they stick well and create a vibrant finished product.

Can I use different flavors of cake mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate or other flavored mixes to create unique versions of these birthday cake pops.

How long do Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops last?

When stored properly, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops are not only delicious but also easy to customize. You can add various flavors or decorations based on your preference. Try making them for parties or special occasions—they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family!