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Starbucks birthday cake pops

5 from 1 rating
Hannah Kling
If you've ever wanted to recreate Starbucks' iconic birthday cake pops at home without spending a fortune, you're in the right place! These sweet, vanilla-flavored cake pops are dipped in a smooth pink chocolate coating, making them just as delicious as the original—if not better!
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 20 cake pops

Ingredients  

Cake Pops

  • 1 box of vanilla cake mix
  • 1 container of buttercream
  • 1 24 oz bag of pink candy melts
  • 1/4 cup pearl sprinkles

Instructions

  • Start by baking the vanilla cake according to the package instructions. Once baked, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least four hours or overnight.
  • Once the cake is fully chilled, transfer it to a stand mixer and beat on medium speed for about two minutes. Add one to two tablespoons of frosting and continue mixing for another three to five minutes until the mixture reaches a smooth, playdough-like consistency.
  • Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into small cake balls with the palm of your hands, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Melt the pink candy melts in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round until it's smooth and creamy.
  • Dip one end of a cake pop stick into the melted chocolate, about 1 inch deep. Then insert it into the center of each cake ball, being careful not to push it all the way through. Chill the cake pops in the fridge for about ten minutes to help set the sticks.
  • Once set, fully dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, ensuring an even coating. Place them back on the baking sheet or stand them upright on a styrofoam block for a classic cake pop look.
  • While the coating is still wet, immediately sprinkle with pearl sprinkles. Allow the chocolate to harden completely before serving.

Equipment

20 Cake Pop Sticks
1 large sheet of styrofoam

Notes

  • Chill the Cake First – Letting the cake cool in the fridge before mixing helps it hold its shape better.
  • Don't Overdo the Frosting – Start with a small amount and add more if needed. Too much frosting will make the mixture too soft and difficult to roll.
  • Chill Before Dipping – Letting the cake pops chill with the sticks inserted prevents them from falling off when dipped in chocolate.
  • Thin Out the Candy Melts – If the melted chocolate is too thick, stir in a little coconut oil or vegetable shortening for a smoother coating.
  • Work Quickly with Sprinkles – Add decorations immediately after dipping, before the chocolate hardens.
  • Use Styrofoam for a Pro Look – If you want a clean finish, stick the dipped cake pops into a styrofoam block instead of laying them flat.
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