Starbucks Cake Pop Recipe (Easy Copycat)

This copycat Starbucks cake pop recipe brings the same irresistible charm of the coffee shop favorite right to your kitchen. With soft vanilla cake centers, creamy frosting, a pink candy coating, and a sprinkle of sweetness, these homemade treats are perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth—all at a fraction of the price.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cost-effective compared to buying individual pops at Starbucks

• Fun and customizable for any occasion or holiday

• Easy to prepare with simple boxed cake mix and frosting

• Perfect bite-sized dessert for kids and adults alike

• Make-ahead friendly with freezer storage options

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Vanilla cake mix

• Frosting (French vanilla or regular vanilla)

• Pink candy melts

• White sprinkles

• Lollipop sticks

Directions

1. Prepare the cake mix according to package directions and bake in a greased 9×13-inch dish (or two 8×8-inch round pans) at 350°F until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

2. Let the cake cool completely, then crumble it into fine pieces using a fork.

3. Stir frosting into the crumbled cake until the mixture holds together. Cover and freeze until chilled.

4. Use your hands or a cookie scoop to roll the mixture into evenly sized balls, about the size of a ping pong ball. Freeze again until firm.

5. Melt candy melts in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in a double boiler.

6. Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted candy, then insert it into a cake ball. Freeze until set.

7. Dip each cake pop into the melted candy coating, twirling to cover completely. Let excess drip off.

8. Decorate with sprinkles, then place upright in a styrofoam block or cardboard box to harden.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 15 cake pops

• Prep time: 1 hour

• Cook time: 40 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Use chocolate cake mix with chocolate frosting for a richer version.

• Swap pink candy melts for white, dark, or even colored candy melts to fit a theme.

• Add crushed cookies, funfetti sprinkles, or chopped candy inside the cake mixture for extra texture.

• Try cream cheese frosting instead of vanilla for tangy sweetness.

• Decorate with seasonal toppings like crushed peppermint for the holidays or themed sprinkles for birthdays.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container lined with a paper towel. They last 2–3 days at room temperature.

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days for best freshness.

• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Do not reheat, as the candy coating will melt.

FAQs

How much does a Starbucks cake pop cost?

A single Starbucks birthday cake pop costs about $3.75.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?

Yes, any moist vanilla cake works well. A boxed mix simply saves time.

How do I keep the cake pops from falling off the sticks?

Chill the cake balls thoroughly and dip the stick in melted candy before inserting.

Can I make these without candy melts?

Yes, you can use melted white chocolate or almond bark, though the texture and color may differ.

Why is my coating cracking?

Cracks happen if the cake balls are too cold. Let them sit at room temperature a few minutes before dipping.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

Yes, they can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge, or frozen weeks in advance.

What if I don’t have a styrofoam block?

Use an upside-down colander or a cardboard box with holes to hold cake pops upright.

How do I prevent cake pops from being too mushy?

Add frosting gradually—just enough to bind the crumbs. Too much frosting makes them overly soft.

Can I dip them twice for a thicker coating?

Yes, just let the first layer set completely before dipping a second time.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Starbucks cake pop recipe is proof that you don’t need to spend extra at the coffee shop to enjoy these fun and festive treats. With a simple cake mix, frosting, candy melts, and sprinkles, you can whip up a batch at home that looks just as pretty—and tastes just as delicious—as the original. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them, or simply treating yourself, these copycat cake pops are sure to impress.