Description
Create perfect Starbucks-style cake pops at home with our comprehensive guide. Learn about ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions to craft these delightful treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
Everything You Need
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients for classic vanilla cake pops:
- For the Cake:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake recipe)
- Ingredients required for the cake mix (typically eggs, oil, and water)
- For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Coating:
- 2 cups white chocolate chips or candy melts
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Sprinkles or decorative sugar (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Your Starbucks-Style Cake Pops
- Bake the Cake: Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions (or use a homemade recipe). Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake as directed. Allow the cake to cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, make the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Crumble the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, crumble it into fine crumbs in a large mixing bowl. Ensure there are no large pieces.
- Combine Cake and Frosting: Add the prepared frosting to the cake crumbs, a little at a time, mixing with a spatula until the mixture holds together when pressed. You may not need all the frosting; the mixture should be moist but not overly sticky.
- Shape the Cake Balls: Use a cookie scoop or melon baller to portion out the cake mixture. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Insert Cake Pop Sticks: Melt a small amount of white chocolate chips or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip the tip of each cake pop stick into the melted chocolate and insert it halfway into each cake ball. This helps secure the stick in place. Return the cake pops to the refrigerator to set.
- Coat the Cake Pops: Melt the remaining white chocolate chips or candy melts with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth. Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Gently tap the stick on the edge of the bowl to remove excess coating.
- Decorate: If desired, add sprinkles or decorative sugar to the cake pops while the coating is still wet. Place the coated cake pops in a Styrofoam block or cake pop stand to set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the coating has set, your Starbucks-style cake pops are ready to enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and better consistency.
- Chill Cake Balls Thoroughly: Refrigerate the cake balls for at least 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes before inserting the sticks and coating. This helps them stay firm during the coating process.
- Tap Off Excess Coating: After dipping the cake pop into the melted chocolate or candy coating, gently tap the stick on the edge of the bowl to remove excess coating and avoid drips.
- Decorate Quickly: Add sprinkles or other decorations immediately after dipping, before the coating sets. This ensures the decorations adhere well to the coating.
- Store Properly: Once the cake pops are set, store them in an airtight container. If storing for more than a day, keep them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.