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 occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy gathering with friends. With the rich chocolate flavor and a fun pop shape, they are sure to impress everyone. Plus, making them yourself means you can customize the taste and decorations to suit your preferences!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Rich Flavor – The combination of chocolate cake and dark cocoa candy melts creates an indulgent treat that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Fun to Make – Get your family involved in rolling and decorating these cake pops; it’s a great way to bond over baking!
• Versatile Option – These cake pops are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because. You can easily adapt the decoration to fit any theme.
• Easy Steps – This recipe breaks down into simple steps, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Customizable Treats – Feel free to change up the flavors and decorations based on what you love best!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this fun baking adventure, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer – These help ensure the cake is crumbled evenly, which is crucial for forming smooth cake pops.
• Mixing bowls – Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized and prevents cross-contamination.
• Lollipop sticks – Essential for creating that iconic cake pop look while making them easy to hold.
• Styrofoam block – A must-have for keeping your finished cake pops upright as they dry, ensuring they maintain their shape.

Ingredients

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

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 oven to 325-350℉ (162-175℃). Refer to recipe on cake box for exact temperature depending on your baking pan size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Combine all cake ingredients in a large bowl. Pour batter into greased/lined pan and transfer into oven. Stick a toothpick in the center of the cake to see if it comes out clean 2-4 mins prior to the end of bake time. DO NOT OVER BAKE.

Step 3: Crumble the Baked Cake

Transfer baked cake into a large stand mixing bowl immediately while it’s still hot. Crumble cake on low speed using a paddle attachment until no large pieces remain. You can also use a handheld mixer or crumble slightly cooled cake by hand.

Step 4: Make the Buttercream Filling

In a small mixing bowl, combine all buttercream ingredients sifting in powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Stir well until fairly smooth; small lumps are common. Add all the buttercream to the crumbled cake and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Form Cake Pops

Roll cake pops approximately 1¼-inch (3cm) in diameter or about 30g each. Chill cake pops in freezer for 15 mins, then bring them back to room temperature for another 10 mins as you melt your candy melts.

Step 6: Prepare Candy Melts

Melt a small amount of candy melts in microwave according to package instructions. The best method is heating and stirring in increments of 15-30 seconds until thin and smooth.

Step 7: Insert Sticks into Cake Balls

Dip tip of lollipop stick into melted candy melt, then gently insert dipped tip into each cake ball halfway. Repeat this with all cake balls, then chill again in freezer for another 15 mins.

Step 8: Dip Cake Pops

Take cake pops out of the freezer and let them return to room temperature for another 10 mins. Melt remaining candy melts until desired thin consistency is achieved. Dip each cake pop into melted candy melt until submerged all the way up to the stick.

Step 9: Tap Off Excess Coating

While holding the stick with one hand, use your other hand to gently tap each cake pop until all excess candy melt has dripped off. Ensure you achieve an even coating without dunking again; this extra weight could cause detachment from the stick.

Step 10: Decorate Your Pops

Quickly decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils before they set. Place finished cake pops into a styrofoam block to keep them upright as they dry. Repeat this process until all cake pops are dipped and decorated.

Enjoy these homemade Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops! They’re sure to be a hit wherever you serve 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, celebrating a birthday, or just indulging yourself, here are some serving suggestions to make the most of these delicious cake pops.

At a Birthday Party

• These cake pops make perfect party favors. Place them in colorful treat bags for guests to take home.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them as a quick snack with your afternoon coffee or tea. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to munch on.

Dessert Table Feature

• Display the cake pops on a decorative stand at dessert tables. They add an appealing visual and are sure to catch everyone’s attention.

Gift Treats

• Wrap them in cellophane with ribbons as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Personalize the wrapping for special occasions.

Movie Night Treats

• Serve these cake pops during movie nights for a fun twist on traditional popcorn snacks. Pair them with some homemade popcorn for variety.

How to Perfect Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

To ensure your Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your cake pops.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cake while baking. Overbaking can lead to dry cake pops, so check for doneness early.
• Chill Properly: After forming your cake balls, chilling them is crucial. This step helps maintain their shape when dipping into the candy melts.
• Achieve Smooth Coating: Stir candy melts in increments until you reach a smooth consistency. This makes dipping easier and results in a cleaner finish.
• Use Styrofoam Blocks: For drying, utilize styrofoam blocks to keep the pops upright. This prevents any decoration from smudging while they set.

Best Side Dishes for Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Pairing side dishes with Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Skewers
   A refreshing complement that balances sweetness with natural flavors; ideal alongside chocolate treats.
2. Mini Cheesecakes
   These bite-sized desserts provide creamy richness, making for a delightful contrast against the cake pops.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
   A classic pairing that enhances the chocolate theme while adding freshness—perfectly indulgent!
4. Ice Cream Sundaes
   Offer mini ice cream sundaes as a side dish; the coolness pairs well with warm chocolate flavors from the cake pops.
5. Cookies and Cream Milkshake
   Blend up milkshakes topped with whipped cream; this rich beverage complements the sweetness of cake pops nicely.
6. Nutty Trail Mix
   A crunchy side that adds texture and balances the sweetness; consider using dark chocolate pieces as part of the mix for consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops at home is fun, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overbaking the Cake: If you leave the cake in the oven too long, it will dry out. Always check with a toothpick a few minutes before the recommended time.
• Inconsistent Sizing: Rolling uneven cake pops can lead to inconsistent baking and decoration. Use a kitchen scale to ensure each cake pop is roughly the same size.
• Not Chilling Properly: Skipping the chilling step may cause your cake pops to fall apart when dipping. Always chill them for at least 15 minutes after rolling.
• Thick Candy Coating: A thick coating can make your cake pops heavy and prone to falling off the stick. Aim for a smooth, thin layer of melted candy melts when dipping.
• Skipping Decorations: Without sprinkles or nonpareils, your cake pops may look plain. Decorate immediately after dipping while the coating is still wet for better adherence.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

• Oven: Preheat oven to low heat (around 200°F), place cake pops on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes to warm gently.
• Microwave: Heat individual cake pops on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler on low heat, placing cake pops above boiling water briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other flavors of cake mix?

Yes! You can substitute chocolate cake mix with vanilla, red velvet, or any flavor you prefer.

How do I make these Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops more festive?

You can customize them with different colored candy melts and themed sprinkles according to the occasion!

What’s the best way to melt candy melts?

Using a microwave in short intervals (15-30 seconds) is effective. Stir frequently for even melting.

Can I use gluten-free cake mix?

Absolutely! Just replace regular chocolate cake mix with gluten-free options available at most grocery stores.

How do I prevent my sticks from falling out?

Make sure to dip the tips of the sticks into melted candy melts before inserting them into the cake balls; this helps secure them better.

Final Thoughts

These Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops are not only delightful but also offer endless customization options! You can experiment with different flavors and decorations based on your preferences or special occasions. Get creative and enjoy making these treats at home!

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Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of homemade Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops! These rich, chocolatey treats are perfect for any celebration or as a sweet snack that everyone will love. With a crunchy outer layer of chocolate candy melts and a moist cake center, these cake pops are not only fun to make but also customizable to fit your favorite flavors and decorations. Gather the family for a joyful baking experience and impress your guests with these delectable bites that are sure to steal the spotlight at birthdays, parties, or cozy gatherings at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box 13.25oz chocolate cake mix
• ⅓ cup neutral oil (vegetable, avocado, canola)
• 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
• 12 oz dark cocoa candy melts
• white nonpareils or sprinkles

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325-350°F (162-175°C) according to cake box instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, oil, milk (or water), eggs, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter into a greased or lined baking pan and bake as instructed. Check for doneness with a toothpick before the recommended time.
4. Once baked, crumble the warm cake in a mixing bowl using a stand mixer or by hand until fine.
5. For the filling, combine powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract in another bowl; mix this into the crumbled cake until well incorporated.
6. Roll mixture into balls about 1¼ inches in diameter and chill in the freezer for 15 minutes.
7. Melt candy melts in increments until smooth; dip lollipop stick tips in melted chocolate before inserting them halfway into each chilled cake ball.
8. Dip each cake pop in melted candy melts until fully coated; tap off excess coating.
9. Quickly decorate with nonpareils before they set and place upright on a styrofoam block to dry.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg