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 are perfect for any celebration, from birthdays to casual gatherings, offering a rich chocolate flavor that everyone loves. With their fun presentation and easy preparation, these cake pops will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses a boxed cake mix, making it simple even for beginner bakers.
• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of chocolate cake and creamy buttercream ensures each bite is rich and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to add different toppings or flavors to make these cake pops uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, holiday, or just a sweet treat, these cake pops fit right in.
• Fun Activity: Making cake pops can be a fun project to do with friends or kids!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (stand or handheld)
• Baking pan
• Lollipop sticks
• Styrofoam block (for drying)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while ensuring uniform mixing, especially when crumbling the cake.
• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even baking for the perfect cake texture.
• Styrofoam block: Keeps the cake pops upright while they set, preventing them from falling over.

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Ingredients

To create your own Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops, you will need the following ingredients:

• 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℃). Refer to the instructions on your cake mix box for the precise temperature based on your baking pan size.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

Combine all cake ingredients in a large bowl. Pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan. Bake according to package directions. Stick a toothpick in the center of the cake around 2–4 minutes before the end of bake time; it should come out clean. Be careful not to overbake!

Step 3: Crumble the Cake

Once baked, transfer the hot cake into a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on low speed with a paddle attachment to crumble the cake until no large pieces remain. You can also crumble it by hand if you prefer.

Step 4: Prepare Buttercream

In a small mixing bowl, combine all buttercream ingredients by sifting in powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Stir well until fairly smooth; small lumps are okay. Mix this buttercream into the crumbled cake until fully combined.

Step 5: Shape Cake Pops

Roll mixture into balls approximately 1¼-inch (3cm) in diameter or about 30g each. Chill these balls in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Then let them sit at room temperature for another 10 minutes while you melt your candy melts.

Step 6: Insert Sticks

Melt a small amount of candy melts in the microwave according to package instructions. Heat and stir in increments of 15–30 seconds until smooth. Dip each lollipop stick’s tip into melted candy melt before inserting it halfway into each cake ball. Once done, chill them again in the freezer for another 15 minutes.

Step 7: Coat Cake Pops

Remove chilled cake pops from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Melt remaining candy melts until they reach a desired thin consistency. Dip each pop into this melted candy melt completely covering it down to where the stick is inserted.

Step 8: Remove Excess Coating

Holding each stick with one hand, gently tap on it with your other hand until excess coating drips off. Aim for an even coat without adding too much weight that could cause detachment.

Step 9: Decorate and Dry

Quickly decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils before they dry completely. Place finished cake pops upright in a styrofoam block until set fully. Repeat this process until all pops are covered and decorated.

Enjoy your homemade Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops! These treats are sure to delight everyone who tries them!

How to Serve Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging yourself, these cake pops can be served in numerous creative styles.

For Birthdays

• Cake Pop Stand: Display your cake pops in a decorative stand to create an eye-catching centerpiece.
• Individual Treat Bags: Package each cake pop in a clear bag tied with a ribbon for party favors.

With Coffee

• Morning Boost: Pair cake pops with your favorite coffee for an energizing breakfast or snack option.
• Afternoon Delight: Enjoy them alongside a hot cup of tea or iced coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

At Special Events

• Dessert Table: Include cake pops as part of a larger dessert table setup, complementing other sweets.
• Themed Decorations: Customize your serving style based on the event’s theme, using colored sprinkles to match.

How to Perfect Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Making perfect Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• bold Maintain Consistent Size: Ensure all cake balls are roughly the same size (about 1¼ inches) for even coating and baking.
• bold Chill Properly: After rolling the cake pops, chill them thoroughly before dipping to prevent them from falling off the stick.
• bold Use Quality Candy Melts: Choose high-quality candy melts for better melting and smoother coating.
• bold Tap Off Excess Coating: After dipping, gently tap the stick to remove excess candy melt for a cleaner finish.
• bold Decorate Quickly: Add sprinkles immediately after dipping while the candy melt is still wet for proper adhesion.

Best Side Dishes for Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

These chocolate cake pops can be accompanied by various side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. bold Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake pops.
2. bold Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream serves as a delicious dip or accompaniment to your treats.
3. bold Mini Muffins: Offer an assortment of mini muffins for guests who enjoy variety in their snacks.
4. bold Ice Cream Scoops: Pairing with vanilla or chocolate ice cream elevates the dessert experience significantly.
5. bold Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the cake pops.
6. bold Hot Cocoa Bar: Set up a hot cocoa station with toppings like marshmallows and cinnamon sticks for cozy enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the cake pops before dipping can result in a mess. Always freeze them for at least 15 minutes first.
• Overbaking the cake: Overbaking can dry out your cake, making it hard to mold. Keep an eye on the oven and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Not using enough candy melts: Using too little candy melt can lead to a thin coating that cracks. Make sure you have enough melted candy for proper coverage.
• Inconsistent sizing: If your cake pops are not uniform in size, they will cook unevenly and may not hold together well. Use a kitchen scale for accurate portions.
• Dipping too quickly: Dipping the cake pop into melted candy too fast can cause it to fall off the stick. Take your time and ensure it is fully submerged without rushing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep them separated with parchment paper if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

• To freeze, place the pops on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pops on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: This method is not recommended as it may melt the chocolate coating unevenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops.

How do I make my Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops moist?

To ensure moisture, don’t overbake your cake and mix the buttercream thoroughly into the crumbled cake before rolling.

Can I customize my Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors by incorporating extracts or using different types of sprinkles for decoration.

How should I store my Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

What are some good alternatives to dark cocoa candy melts?

You can use white chocolate or colored candy melts based on your preference if you want to switch things up!

Final Thoughts

Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops are delightful treats that bring joy with every bite. Their versatility means you can customize flavors and toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and impress friends and family with your homemade version of this popular treat!