Starbucks Cake Pops recipe 2024
Do you remember that first bite of a Starbucks cake pop? It was like a burst of sweetness in your mouth. It left a lasting memory. For me, it was on a rainy afternoon that I first tried one. It became my go-to comfort food.
But, at $3.75 each, it was pricey. So, I decided to make them at home. And I did! Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you. You can enjoy these treats without spending a lot.
This recipe is more than just saving money. It’s about bringing the magic of Starbucks into your kitchen. You can make them your own way and share them with others. They’re perfect for any occasion or just because.
This recipe has become a hit online, with over 19.7 million views. And it’s easy to see why! You can make 24 pops for just $8. That’s only $0.35 each, compared to Starbucks’ $3.75. Plus, they’re only 85 calories each, so you can enjoy them without feeling guilty.
Key Takeaways
- Make 24 Starbucks-inspired cake pops for only $8
- Each homemade pop costs $0.35 vs. $3.75 at Starbucks
- Recipe uses simple ingredients like boxed cake mix and frosting
- Perfect for parties, baby showers, or as a sweet treat
- Customizable with various flavors and decorations
- Suitable for bakers of all skill levels
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months for convenience
Introduction to Starbucks Cake Pops
Starbucks cake pops are a favorite treat in coffee shops. They are small, moist vanilla cake centers covered in white chocolate. People love making these at home, inspired by Starbucks’ recipe.
What Makes Starbucks Cake Pops Special
Starbucks cake pops are loved for their mix of flavors and textures. The cake inside is soft, and the candy shell is crisp. They’re perfect for a quick snack or to enjoy with coffee.
Cost Comparison: Homemade vs Store-bought
Homemade cake pops save a lot of money. One from Starbucks costs $3.75, but homemade ones are just $0.35. Making 30 at home costs less than $11, compared to $112.50 from Starbucks.
| Source | Cost per Cake Pop | Cost for 30 Cake Pops |
|---|---|---|
| Starbucks | $3.75 | $112.50 |
| Homemade | $0.35 | $10.50 |
Why Make Them at Home
Making your own cake pops is more than saving money. You can choose your ingredients and decorations. They can fit any diet and taste just as good as Starbucks’. Plus, they last up to 3 days at room temperature or 2 weeks in the fridge.
Essential Ingredients for Starbucks Cake Pops Recipe
Making Starbucks-inspired cake pops at home is simple. It brings the joy of these popular treats right to your kitchen. The secret to success is using the right ingredients.
Begin with a 15.25 oz vanilla cake mix. You’ll need 3 large eggs to hold the cake together. For the classic pink coating, use 10 oz of light pink chocolate melting wafers. And, don’t forget 40 cake pop sticks to hold your treats!
To add flavor, mix in 1 cup of vanilla frosting with your cake. This makes the cake pop perfect in texture and sweetness. For decoration, white nonpareils sprinkles give it that signature Starbucks look.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla Cake Mix | 15.25 oz | Base of the cake pop |
| Large Eggs | 3 | Binding agent |
| Vanilla Frosting | 1 cup | Adds moisture and sweetness |
| Pink Chocolate Melts | 10 oz | Outer coating |
| Cake Pop Sticks | 40 | Handles for the pops |
You can also customize your cake pops. Try different flavored cake mixes or colored candy melts. This makes homemade cake pops great for any occasion or theme.
Required Kitchen Tools and Equipment
Starting your cake pop baking journey needs a few key tools. Let’s look at what you’ll need to make tasty homemade cake pops, just like Starbucks.
Basic Utensils Needed
For cake pop baking success, you’ll need these basics:
- Large mixing bowl
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Baking pan
- Cookie scoop or 1/4 cup measure
- Microwave-safe bowl for melting candy
Optional but Helpful Tools
These tools can make decorating your cake pops easier:
- Cake pop press for uniform shapes
- Styrofoam block for drying decorated pops
- Piping bags for intricate designs
Alternatives for Specialized Equipment
Don’t have all the fancy tools? No problem! Here are some alternatives:
- Use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer
- Create a drying rack with a cardboard box and small holes
- Use plastic bags with corners snipped for simple decorating
| Tool | Purpose | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Stand Mixer | Mixing cake batter | Hand mixer or whisk |
| Cake Pop Press | Shaping uniform balls | Hands or ice cream scoop |
| Styrofoam Block | Drying decorated pops | Cardboard box with holes |
With these tools, you’re set to begin your homemade cake pops adventure. Remember, creativity can often replace specialized equipment in decorating!
Step-by-Step Cake Preparation
Are you ready to make Starbucks cake pops at home? Let’s begin with the basics. First, we need to make a tasty vanilla cake.
Get your ingredients ready: a 15.25 oz vanilla cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 1 1/4 cups water. Heat your oven to 350°F. Mix these ingredients in a bowl until it’s smooth.
Put the batter in a 9×13-inch pan or two 8×8-inch rounds. Bake as the box says. Let the cake cool completely. This step is key for making great homemade cake pops.
Now, crumble the cooled cake into small pieces. Remove any hard parts for a better texture. In a stand mixer, mix the cake crumbs with 1 cup of vanilla frosting. Keep mixing until it feels like dough.
“The secret to perfect cake pops is in the mixture. It should be moist enough to hold shape, but not too wet.”
Chill the mixture before shaping it into balls. Use a small cookie scoop for even sizes. This recipe makes about 40 cake pops. Freeze the balls for 30 minutes, then refreeze for another hour before coating.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla Cake Mix | 15.25 oz | Base for cake pops |
| Large Eggs | 3 | Binding agent |
| Vegetable Oil | 1/2 cup | Moisture and texture |
| Water | 1 1/4 cups | Liquid for batter |
| Vanilla Frosting | 1 cup | Binding and flavor |
Making the Perfect Cake Ball Mixture
Creating the perfect cake ball mixture is crucial for delicious homemade cake pops. This easy recipe starts with crumbling your cake right and mixing it with the right frosting amount. Let’s explore the techniques to make Starbucks-quality cake pops at home.
Proper Crumbling Technique
Begin by removing the outer layer of your cooled cake. Use a fork to crumble the cake finely. This ensures a smooth texture for your cake pop ingredients. Aim for small, uniform crumbs for a consistent mixture.
Ideal Frosting Ratio
The frosting is the binder for your cake crumbs. Add it gradually, using just enough to hold the mixture together. For a 15.25 oz cake mix, start with about 1/2 cup of frosting. Mix well and add more if needed. The perfect consistency should hold its shape when pressed.
Troubleshooting Common Mixture Issues
If your mixture is too dry, add more frosting in small amounts. If it’s too wet, add more cake crumbs. The right balance is key to prevent your cake pop sticks from falling out. Once you’ve achieved the ideal consistency, chill the mixture for easier shaping.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Dry mixture | Add more frosting gradually |
| Wet mixture | Mix in extra cake crumbs |
| Falling off sticks | Adjust consistency and chill thoroughly |
Shaping and Chilling Process
Mastering the shaping and chilling process is key for great cake pop baking. When making homemade cake pops like Starbucks, precision is crucial. Start by forming balls about 1 inch in diameter using a cookie scoop or your hands. This size is perfect for even baking.
Put your shaped cake balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For the best results, freeze them for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 2 hours. This step is important as it keeps the cake pops in shape during coating.
After chilling, you might see some imperfections. Don’t worry! Gently reshape the balls if needed for smoother surfaces. This step will make your homemade cake pops look professional, just like Starbucks.
| Chilling Method | Duration | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | 30 minutes | Quick set, firmer texture |
| Refrigerator | 2 hours | Gradual set, softer texture |
Remember, patience during this stage is worth it. Properly chilled cake pops are easier to work with and look more professional. With these tips, your homemade cake pops will be just as good as those at your favorite coffee shop!
Candy Coating Techniques
Learning to candy coat is crucial for making perfect Starbucks-style cake pops. This guide will help you make treats that look as good as those from your favorite coffee shop.
Melting Instructions
Begin by melting your candy coating. Pour 12oz of pink candy melts into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil.
Dipping Methods
Dip the end of a lollipop stick into the melted candy, then insert it into a chilled cake ball. This secures the stick. Next, dip the entire cake ball into the coating. Gently tap off excess and stand upright in a foam block to dry.
Decorating Tips
Decorating is where you can get creative! While the coating is still wet, add sprinkles or drizzle with a contrasting color. For a Starbucks birthday cake pop look, use white nonpareils on pink coating.
| Coating Type | Melting Temperature | Drying Time |
|---|---|---|
| Candy Melts | 90-100°F | 5-10 minutes |
| Chocolate | 88-90°F | 10-15 minutes |
| White Chocolate | 86-88°F | 10-15 minutes |
Remember, practice makes perfect in cake pop decorating. Don’t worry if your first tries aren’t perfect. With time, you’ll get better and make stunning homemade cake pops that are just as good as store-bought ones.
Storage and Shelf Life
Keeping your homemade cake pops fresh is important. Let’s look at the best ways to store these treats inspired by Starbucks.
Room Temperature Storage
Your cake pops can last 3-4 days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep their texture and taste. This is good for short-term storage or if you’ll eat them soon.
Refrigeration Guidelines
For longer storage, put your cake pops in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to 2 weeks. Wrap each pop in wax paper and bubble wrap to keep them dry. This is great for large batches or making them ahead of time.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing can make your cake pops last 3 months. Store them in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. Thaw them in the fridge overnight when you’re ready. This is perfect for long-term storage or for having treats ready for cravings.
Proper storage is key to keeping your cake pops fresh. Whether you store them at room temperature, in the fridge, or freezer, make sure they’re dry. This way, you can enjoy your Starbucks-inspired treats anytime!
Recipe Variations and Customizations
Make your homemade Starbucks cake pops your own with different flavors. Swap vanilla cake mix for chocolate, red velvet, or funfetti. This adds excitement to your treats. Try cream cheese or peppermint frosting for a unique taste.
Adding vanilla or almond extract can make your cake pops even better. It’s a simple trick to enhance the flavor. You can also change the coating colors and sprinkles for holidays or special events. Try lemon poppy seed, mint chocolate, or cinnamon roll flavors for something new.
Getting the right consistency is key for perfect cake pops. Use about 1/2 cup of frosting for your cake mix. Chill the cake balls for 2 hours before dipping. This helps the sticks stay in place. With these tips, you can make dozens of tasty cake pops, just like Starbucks, but cheaper.
FAQ
How much money can I save by making Starbucks cake pops at home?
Making cake pops at home can save you a lot of money. This recipe makes 24 pops for about , which is
FAQ
How much money can I save by making Starbucks cake pops at home?
Making cake pops at home can save you a lot of money. This recipe makes 24 pops for about $8, which is $0.35 each. Starbucks charges $3.75 for one, so you save a lot.
What are the key ingredients needed for Starbucks-style cake pops?
You’ll need vanilla cake mix, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and light pink candy melts. Also, white nonpareils sprinkles and lollipop sticks are key. French vanilla frosting can make the flavor even closer to Starbucks.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for this recipe?
Yes, a hand mixer works well instead of a stand mixer. It’s good for mixing the cake and frosting together for the pop mixture.
How long can I store homemade cake pops?
You can keep cake pops at room temperature for 3 days in an airtight container. Refrigeration extends this to 1 week. Freezing them for 2-3 months is also an option. Just thaw them overnight before eating.
How can I customize my cake pops?
You can customize them in many ways. Try different cake flavors like chocolate or red velvet. Mix up the frosting and use various coatings and sprinkles. Adding vanilla or almond extract can also enhance the taste.
What’s the best way to shape the cake balls evenly?
Use a cookie scoop or your hands to make balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 2 hours. Then, you can reshape them if needed.
How do I prevent the cake pops from falling off the sticks when dipping?
Dip the lollipop sticks in melted candy coating before inserting them into the cake balls. This creates a “glue” that keeps the cake pop on the stick. Also, make sure your cake balls are well-chilled before dipping.
Can I make cookies and cream cake pops using this recipe?
Yes! For cookies and cream, use chocolate cake mix and crushed Oreo cookies. Mix in vanilla frosting and coat with white chocolate. Decorate with more cookie crumbs.
What’s the best way to melt candy melts for coating?
Melt candy melts in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. A double boiler method also works. Use a tall, narrow container for easier dipping.
How can I achieve the signature Starbucks look for my cake pops?
Use light pink candy melts and white nonpareils sprinkles for the Starbucks look. Ensure a smooth coating by tapping off excess candy. Add sprinkles right before the coating sets for best results.
.35 each. Starbucks charges .75 for one, so you save a lot.
What are the key ingredients needed for Starbucks-style cake pops?
You’ll need vanilla cake mix, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and light pink candy melts. Also, white nonpareils sprinkles and lollipop sticks are key. French vanilla frosting can make the flavor even closer to Starbucks.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for this recipe?
Yes, a hand mixer works well instead of a stand mixer. It’s good for mixing the cake and frosting together for the pop mixture.
How long can I store homemade cake pops?
You can keep cake pops at room temperature for 3 days in an airtight container. Refrigeration extends this to 1 week. Freezing them for 2-3 months is also an option. Just thaw them overnight before eating.
How can I customize my cake pops?
You can customize them in many ways. Try different cake flavors like chocolate or red velvet. Mix up the frosting and use various coatings and sprinkles. Adding vanilla or almond extract can also enhance the taste.
What’s the best way to shape the cake balls evenly?
Use a cookie scoop or your hands to make balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 2 hours. Then, you can reshape them if needed.
How do I prevent the cake pops from falling off the sticks when dipping?
Dip the lollipop sticks in melted candy coating before inserting them into the cake balls. This creates a “glue” that keeps the cake pop on the stick. Also, make sure your cake balls are well-chilled before dipping.
Can I make cookies and cream cake pops using this recipe?
Yes! For cookies and cream, use chocolate cake mix and crushed Oreo cookies. Mix in vanilla frosting and coat with white chocolate. Decorate with more cookie crumbs.
What’s the best way to melt candy melts for coating?
Melt candy melts in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. A double boiler method also works. Use a tall, narrow container for easier dipping.
How can I achieve the signature Starbucks look for my cake pops?
Use light pink candy melts and white nonpareils sprinkles for the Starbucks look. Ensure a smooth coating by tapping off excess candy. Add sprinkles right before the coating sets for best results.