Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Make these Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops at home and you’ll think twice about buying one ever again! These delightful treats bring the café experience to your kitchen. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or just a sweet snack, they are easy to make and full of chocolatey goodness. You can customize them with different toppings to match any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cake pops are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s a birthday party or an afternoon snack, these cake pops fit perfectly into any event.
• Decadent Flavor: Rich chocolate flavor combined with creamy buttercream makes each bite irresistible.
• Fun for Everyone: Kids and adults alike will enjoy rolling and decorating their own cake pops.
• Customizable Toppings: Decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils to match your theme or mood.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools for making these delicious cake pops. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Baking pan
• Lollipop sticks
• Styrofoam block (for drying)
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Ensures even mixing of ingredients, making it easier to achieve a smooth buttercream.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy combining of ingredients and crumbling of the baked cake.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking without overflowing.

Ingredients

Make these Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops at home and you’ll think twice about buying one ever again!

• 1 box 13.25oz chocolate 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
• 1½ tbsp cocoa powder
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• pinch salt
• 1 tsp milk (add more if needed)
• 12 oz dark cocoa candy melts
• white nonpareils or sprinkles

How to Make Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325-350℉ (162-175℃). Check the cake box instructions for the exact temperature based on your baking pan size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

• Combine all cake ingredients in a large bowl.
• Pour batter into a greased or lined baking pan.
• Bake according to package instructions. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 3: Crumble the Baked Cake

Once baked, transfer the hot cake into a large mixing bowl.
* Use a stand mixer on low speed with a paddle attachment to crumble the cake until no large pieces remain. Alternatively, crumble by hand if preferred.

Step 4: Make the Buttercream

In a small bowl:
* Combine all buttercream ingredients, sifting in powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
* Mix until fairly smooth; small lumps are normal.
Add this mixture to the crumbled cake and blend well until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Form Cake Pops

Roll portions of the mixture into balls approximately 1¼-inch (3cm) in diameter (about 30g each).
* Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes.
* Allow them to warm at room temperature for another 10 minutes as you prepare the candy melts.

Step 6: Prepare Candy Melts

Melt some candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl according to package instructions.
* Heat and stir in increments of 15-30 seconds until smooth.

Step 7: Insert Sticks

Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into melted candy melt before inserting it halfway into each cake ball.
Repeat this step until all cake balls have sticks inserted.
Chill again in the freezer for another 15 minutes.

Step 8: Coat Cake Pops

Bring chilled cake pops back to room temperature for about 10 minutes. Melt remaining candy melts until desired consistency is reached.
Dip each pop into melted candy melt ensuring full coverage down to where the stick meets the ball.

Step 9: Decorate

Gently tap off excess coating while holding onto the stick until even coating remains. Quickly decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils before they set.
Place finished pops upright in a styrofoam block while they dry completely.

Enjoy creating these Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops that are sure to impress!

How to Serve Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Serving Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops can add a delightful touch to any gathering or celebration. These treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their appeal.

For Birthday Parties

• Colorful Display: Arrange the cake pops in vibrant colors on a decorative platter for a cheerful birthday treat.
• Themed Decorations: Use themed sprinkles or toppers that match the birthday party theme for added fun.

As Afternoon Snacks

• Coffee Pairing: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
• Fruit Addition: Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries to balance the sweetness of the cake pops.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Festive Packaging: Gift them in decorative bags or boxes as thoughtful holiday treats.
• Seasonal Sprinkles: Use holiday-themed sprinkles for an extra festive flair during celebrations.

At Bake Sales

• Individual Wrappings: Wrap each cake pop in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon for easy sale and transport.
• Price Tags: Clearly label your price tags to attract buyers while showcasing your delicious treats.

How to Perfect Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

To achieve the best results with your Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops, consider these helpful tips:

• Boldly Chill Your Cake Pops: After rolling them, chilling helps maintain their shape during dipping.
• Carefully Melt Candy Melts: Heat candy melts at intervals to prevent burning, ensuring a smooth consistency for coating.
• Gently Tap Off Excess Coating: This step is crucial for an even finish; avoid overly thick layers that might cause detachment.
• Use Quality Sprinkles: Opt for high-quality nonpareils or sprinkles that can withstand the moisture from the candy coating without losing their color or texture.
• Ensure Even Rolling Size: Keep each cake pop uniform in size (approximately 1¼-inch) so they cook evenly and look appealing.

Best Side Dishes for Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Pairing side dishes with Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops can create a delightful dessert spread. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
2. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes complement the sweetness of cake pops while offering variety in texture and taste.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Enhance the chocolate theme with strawberries dipped in chocolate; they’re easy to make and visually appealing.
4. Ice Cream Sundaes: Offer scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream topped with hot fudge, creating an indulgent dessert experience.
5. Nutty Trail Mix: Provide a savory option that balances sweetness with crunchy nuts and dried fruits, perfect as a snack alongside cake pops.
6. Milkshakes: Whip up creamy milkshakes in chocolate or vanilla flavors as a fun drink pairing for your cake pops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the cooling step: Failing to let the cake cool completely before crumbling can lead to a soggy mixture. Allow sufficient cooling time for better texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect amounts of dry or wet ingredients can throw off the recipe. Always double-check your measurements for consistency.
• Overmixing the cake batter: Mixing too much can result in dense cake pops. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Using warm melted candy melts: If candy melts are too warm when dipping, they may not coat evenly. Let the melts cool slightly for a smoother finish.
• Chilling for too long: Leaving cake pops in the freezer for an extended period can make them too hard to coat. Chill only as directed for ideal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cake pops in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

• Place uncoated cake pops on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short intervals of 10-15 seconds on low power; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: This method is not recommended, as it may cause melting or uneven heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops:

How do I make Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

What type of chocolate works best?

For the coating, dark cocoa candy melts provide a rich flavor that mimics store-bought versions well.

Can I customize my Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like peppermint or almond extract, or mix in nuts for added texture.

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

Make sure the candy melt coating is thick enough and that you chill them properly before dipping.

How do I store leftover cake pops?

Store any leftover pops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops are not only delicious but also versatile. Customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings for a personal touch! Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful treat that rivals your favorite coffee shop’s offerings.