Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious treat that will brighten up any occasion, look no further than these delightful Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops! These little bites of joy are perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to recreate that signature flavor and texture right in your own kitchen. Plus, they’re always a hit with kids and adults alike!

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find making these cake pops not only satisfying but also a great way to spend time with loved ones. So gather your friends or family, and let’s dive into the world of sweet indulgence with this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, anyone can create these cake pops.
• Family-friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and rolling the cake balls is a fun activity for everyone!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a weeknight treat, these cake pops are sure to impress.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare them in advance and store them until you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously customizable: From flavors to decorations, you can easily make these cake pops your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch up flavors or decorations to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change the flavor: Try using chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for a rich twist!
• Add some zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Use colored candy melts or different types of sprinkles to match your celebration theme.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap the vanilla cake mix for a gluten-free version available at most stores.

How to Make Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 325-350℉ (162-175℃). Check your box instructions for exact temperatures based on pan size. Combine all cake ingredients in a large bowl until well mixed. Pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan and bake until golden brown. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center about 2-4 minutes before the recommended bake time ends—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!

Step 2: Crumble the Cake

As soon as your cake is out of the oven, transfer it into a large stand mixing bowl while it’s still warm. Crumble it on low speed using the paddle attachment until there are no large pieces left. If you prefer, you can also crumble it by hand once it cools slightly—this part is super satisfying!

Step 3: Make the Buttercream

In a small mixing bowl, combine all buttercream ingredients without needing to sift the powdered sugar. Stir until smooth; small lumps are okay! Add this mixture to your crumbled cake and mix thoroughly until everything is fully incorporated. This gives your cake pops that delicious creamy texture.

Step 4: Shape Your Cake Pops

Roll small portions of the dough into balls approximately 1¼-inch (3cm) wide—about 30g each. Chill them in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Let them come back to room temperature for about 10 minutes while you melt your candy melts.

Step 5: Prepare Your Sticks

Melt a small amount of pink candy melts according to package instructions—stirring every 15-30 seconds works best! Dip one end of each lollipop stick into this melted candy and then gently insert it halfway into each cake ball. This ensures they stay put when dipping later on! Pop them back in the freezer for another quick chill.

Step 6: Dip Your Cake Pops

Once chilled again, bring your cake pops back to room temperature for about 10 minutes while melting more candy melts until they reach your desired consistency. Dip each pop fully into the melted candy melt—make sure it’s submerged all the way up to where the stick meets the pop.

Step 7: Tap Off Excess Coating

Hold onto the stick with one hand while gently tapping off any excess candy melt with your other hand. This step ensures an even coating that looks great and helps them stay securely on the sticks.

Step 8: Decorate Your Pops

Quickly decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils before everything sets! Place each finished pop into a styrofoam block so they stand upright while drying. Repeat until all pops are beautifully coated!

Now that you’ve made these delightful Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops at home, get ready for compliments from everyone who tries them! Enjoy sharing this sweet treat at your next gathering—it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Making cake pops can feel a bit daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature eggs and butter helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking. This will lead to a more consistent texture in your cake pops.
• Don’t Overmix the Cake Batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming tough. A light touch is key to achieving that tender crumb we all love!
• Cool Before Crumbling: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before crumbling will help it hold its shape better when you form the balls. A warm cake can be too crumbly, making it tricky to mold.
• Chill Between Steps: Chilling the cake pops after rolling them and again after dipping helps the coating set properly. This prevents them from falling off the stick and maintains their round shape.
• Be Creative with Decorations: Don’t shy away from using different colored candy melts or toppings! Personalizing your cake pops makes them extra special and can match any occasion or celebration theme.

How to Serve Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Cake pops are not only delicious but also make for an eye-catching dessert at any gathering! Here are some fun ways to present your delightful creations.

Garnishes

• Edible Glitter: Adding a sprinkle of edible glitter before the coating sets gives your cake pops a magical sparkle that’s perfect for celebrations.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the dried candy coating adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi balances out the sweetness of the cake pops while adding freshness to your dessert table.
• Milkshakes: Pairing these sweet bites with creamy milkshakes—vanilla or strawberry—creates a delightful treat experience that everyone will love.
• Cheese Board: A savory cheese board filled with assorted cheeses, nuts, and crackers provides a nice contrast to the sweet cake pops. It’s perfect for balancing flavors at your gathering.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving these treats alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea enhances the overall experience, making it feel like a café outing right at home.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress friends and family with your homemade Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops are perfect for meal prep! They make a delightful treat for parties, gatherings, or even a sweet snack throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep your cake pops fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure they are in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cake pops on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Once frozen, wrap each pop individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• If you want to enjoy your cake pops warm, remove them from the fridge or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
• If frozen, you can gently reheat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds but be cautious not to overheat as it may ruin the candy coating.

FAQs

I know you might have some questions about these delicious treats!

How do I make Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops without using gelatin?

You can easily make these cake pops without gelatin by following this recipe! The cake itself holds together beautifully once crumbled and mixed with buttercream frosting.

Can I use different flavors of cake mix for Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops?

Absolutely! While vanilla is delightful, feel free to experiment with chocolate, red velvet, or any other flavor you prefer. Just adjust your frosting flavors accordingly!

What if my candy melts are too thick for dipping?

If your candy melts become too thick, simply add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening while melting to achieve a smoother consistency. This helps with easy dipping!

How long can I store Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops?

You can store these cake pops at room temperature for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, they’ll last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them as mentioned above!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these delightful Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops as much as I do! They’re not only fun to create but also bring a touch of celebration to any occasion. Remember that every bite is made with love, so gather your friends or family around and let’s celebrate together! Happy baking!