Copycat Starbucks Cake Pops Easy and Fun Recipe

December 9, 2025May 6, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 box of vanilla cake mix

– 3 large eggs

– 1/2 cup vegetable oil

– 1 cup water

– 1/2 cup frosting (store-bought or homemade)

– 1 cup white chocolate chips

– 1 tbsp coconut oil (for melting chocolate)

– Sprinkles (for decorating)

– Lollipop sticks

To make these cute cake pops, you need a few simple ingredients. Start with a box of vanilla cake mix. This provides the base flavor. You will also need three large eggs to help bind the mix. Vegetable oil adds moisture, and water helps bring it all together.

Next, grab half a cup of frosting. You can use store-bought or make your own. Frosting gives cake pops their moist texture. For the coating, you need one cup of white chocolate chips and one tablespoon of coconut oil. The coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly.

Finally, don’t forget sprinkles for decoration! They add a fun touch. You’ll also need lollipop sticks to turn your cake balls into pops. With these ingredients, you have everything you need for a fun baking day!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Cake Batter

To make the cake pops, start by mixing the cake ingredients.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, add the vanilla cake mix, three eggs, vegetable oil, and water.

3. Mix until smooth. This batter should be lump-free.

4. Now, pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Crumbling and Combining

Once the cake is baked, it’s time to cool and crumble it.

1. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

2. Once cool, crumble the cake into a large bowl. Use your hands for this step.

3. Add half a cup of frosting to the crumbled cake.

4. Mix the frosting with the cake until sticky and well combined.

Forming and Setting Cake Balls

Now, we will shape and firm up the cake balls.

1. Take small amounts of the cake mixture and form balls about one inch wide.

2. Place them on a lined baking sheet.

3. Next, refrigerate the cake balls for about 30 minutes. This helps them set.

Melting and Dipping

Finally, let’s prepare the chocolate coating for the cake pops.

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt one cup of white chocolate chips.

2. Mix in one tablespoon of coconut oil. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between.

3. Dip the end of each lollipop stick into the melted chocolate. This secures the stick.

4. Insert the stick into the center of each cake ball.

5. Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off.

6. While the chocolate is wet, add sprinkles or other toppings.

7. Place the cake pops upright in a block or stand to set.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Cake Pops

To make great cake pops, focus on the cake mixture’s texture. The mixture should be sticky and easy to mold. If it is too dry, add more frosting. If it’s too wet, add a bit of crumbled cake.

For melting chocolate, use a microwave-safe bowl. Combine the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in the bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts. Stir after each time. This helps prevent burning. You want a smooth and creamy texture for dipping.

Decorating Techniques

Be creative with your toppings! Use sprinkles, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes. You can also dip half the pop in chocolate for a fun look. Try using dark or milk chocolate for a twist. Different types of chocolate add flavor and color.

You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top of the pops for a fancy touch. Use a fork or a squeeze bottle for nice lines.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters! Stick the cake pops in a foam block or a tall glass. This keeps them upright and looks nice. You can even arrange them on a platter for parties.

Pair your cake pops with drinks like coffee or milk. They are sweet treats that go well with many beverages. Enjoying them with friends makes them even better!

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can make cake pops in different flavors. Here are two fun ideas:

– Chocolate cake pops recipe: Use a box of chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla. Follow the same steps. The rich chocolate flavor will delight everyone.

– Red velvet cake pops: Swap in red velvet cake mix. This gives a nice color and a hint of cocoa. Your guests will love the unique twist.

Dietary Adjustments

You can easily change the recipe for different diets:

– Gluten-free options: Use gluten-free cake mix. Also, check your frosting to ensure it is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the treats.

– Vegan alternatives: Choose a vegan cake mix. Replace eggs with flax eggs. Use dairy-free frosting and chocolate. This makes your cake pops vegan-friendly.

Seasonal Themes

Make your cake pops fit any occasion:

– Holiday-themed cake pops: For Christmas, use red and green sprinkles. Create spooky cake pops for Halloween with orange and black decorations.

– Birthday party customizations: Match the cake pops to the party theme. Use colors and sprinkles that fit your party. You can even add fun toppers for extra flair.

These variations let you enjoy cake pops year-round. Whether you want a classic, a dietary option, or a fun theme, you can create something special.

Storage Information

How to Store Cake Pops

To keep your cake pops fresh, use airtight containers. This helps to keep moisture out. You can store them at room temperature for two days. If you want them to last longer, put them in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the cake pops may get a bit firmer when chilled.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze cake pops for up to three months. First, let them set after coating. Once set, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about two hours. After that, transfer the pops to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible.

To thaw, take them out of the freezer and leave them in the fridge overnight. Never thaw at room temperature. This helps keep the texture smooth and tasty. Avoid refreezing once thawed, as it can change their quality.

FAQs

How long do cake pops last?

Cake pops usually last for about 5 days when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you place them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. However, they might dry out a bit in the fridge.

Can I use homemade frosting?

Yes, you can use homemade frosting! In fact, homemade frosting can add a unique touch to your cake pops. Just make sure the frosting is thick enough to help bind the cake crumbs together. This keeps your cake pops moist and tasty.

What is the best way to melt chocolate for coating?

The best way to melt chocolate is in the microwave. Use short bursts of 30 seconds to start. Stir the chocolate between each burst. Adding a tablespoon of coconut oil can help it melt smoothly and give a nice shine.

Can I add flavors to the chocolate coating?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like peppermint, orange, or vanilla to your melted chocolate. Just mix in a few drops of flavor extract while melting. This adds a fun twist to your cake pops.

How do I prevent cake pops from falling off the stick?

To keep cake pops from falling off the stick, dip the stick in melted chocolate before inserting it into the cake ball. This helps secure the stick. Also, make sure the cake balls are cold when you dip them. This helps them hold their shape better.

You now know how to make fun cake pops from scratch. We covered all the ingredients, mixing, and baking. I shared tips for great texture and fun decorating ideas. You can even try different flavors and dietary options. Remember to store them well to keep them fresh. With these steps, you can impress friends at parties or for special events. Enjoy making and sharing your delicious creation