There’s something magical about Starbucks’ Peppermint Cake Pops that instantly brings holiday cheer. These bite-sized treats combine moist cake with a creamy peppermint coating, making them the perfect festive snack or gift. We’ve recreated this beloved seasonal favorite so you can enjoy it anytime at home.
Ingredients
To craft our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pop recipe with authentic flavor and texture, we’ll gather specific ingredients divided into three key components. Each set plays a crucial role in building the perfect cake pop experience, from moist cake base to creamy frosting, finishing with the festive peppermint coating and decoration.
Cake Ingredients
The foundation of our cake pops is a moist and flavorful cake. Here’s what we need:
- 1 box white cake mix (or your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
The frosting binds the cake crumbs together, keeping every bite soft and creamy. Use:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (add more if needed for smooth texture)
Coating and Decoration Ingredients
The signature peppermint coating and festive look come from these ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 16 oz white candy melts | 16 ounces | Smooth, creamy candy coating |
| 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract | To taste | Enhances peppermint flavor |
| Crushed peppermint candies | 1/4 cup (optional) | Adds crunch and festive decor |
| Sprinkles | As desired | Optional decorative touch |
| Lollipop sticks | 20 sticks | For holding cake pops securely |
We suggest chilling the candy melts gently if too thick, ensuring a smooth dip, and crushing the peppermint candies finely for the best coating texture. With these ingredients ready, we can move on to creating the perfect cake crumb, frosting mixture, and assembly for our famous Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops at home, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and flawless results. Here is everything we need to transform our festive cake pop dreams into reality.
Essential Tools for Baking and Mixing
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for combining the cake batter and frosting.
- Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: This speeds up creaming butter, mixing cake batter, and achieving smooth frosting consistency.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients is crucial for the perfect texture and flavor.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping down bowl sides and folding ingredients gently.
Tools for Shaping and Assembly
- Cake Pop Mold or Scoop: A 1.5-inch scoop or a dedicated cake pop mold helps us shape uniform cake balls.
- Baking Sheet: Use it for chilling cake balls prior to dipping.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Prevent sticking while chilling or drying.
Dipping and Decorating Equipment
- Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the white candy melts smoothly.
- Spoon or Fork: Useful for dipping and lifting cake pops out of the candy coating.
- Cake Pop Sticks: Essential for holding and serving the pops.
- Styrofoam Block or Cake Pop Stand: To let dipped cake pops dry upright without damage.
Summary Table of Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine cake batter and frosting |
| Electric Hand or Stand Mixer | Blend ingredients to smooth consistency |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements |
| Rubber Spatula | Scrape bowls and fold batter/frosting |
| Cake Pop Mold or Scoop | Shape uniform cake balls |
| Baking Sheet | Chill cake pops before dipping |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Prevent sticking during chilling/drying |
| Microwave-Safe Bowl | Melt candy coating |
| Spoon or Fork | Dip and extract cake pops from coating |
| Cake Pop Sticks | Hold cake pops while dipping and serving |
| Styrofoam Block/Cake Pop Stand | Dry pops without damage |
Prep Work
Before we dive into assembling our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops, it’s essential to prepare the components properly for the best results. This prep work ensures the cake stays moist and the frosting blends seamlessly, giving us that perfect festive bite.
Baking the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper oven temperature is crucial for a light, fluffy cake.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 box of white cake mix
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mix these ingredients using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth. The batter should be creamy and free of lumps.
- Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, then pour the batter evenly into the pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding. Cooling prevents the cake from crumbling during shaping.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | – | Ensures even baking |
| Bake cake | 350°F (175°C) | 30-35 minutes | Check doneness with toothpick |
| Cooling | Room temperature | 1 hour | Critical for handling cake |
Preparing the Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat together:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Use an electric mixer at medium speed until the frosting is light, fluffy, and thoroughly combined—this will add moisture and help bind the cake crumbs.
- If the frosting is too thick, add an extra teaspoon of heavy cream; if too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually.
- Set the frosting aside until the cake has fully cooled, ready for mixing with the crumbled cake.
Pro Tip: The frosting consistency should be smooth and slightly firm. This makes shaping cake pops easier and prevents them from falling apart.
By carefully baking the cake and preparing the frosting as described, we set a solid foundation for recreating the deliciously moist, creamy texture of Starbucks’ iconic Peppermint Cake Pops.
Making the Cake Pop Mixture
To achieve the perfect Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pop texture, the mixture must be carefully prepared. This involves thoroughly crumbling the cake and mixing it with the frosting until the ideal consistency is reached.
Crumbling the Cake
Start by breaking down the moist white cake into fine crumbs. Use your hands or a fork to crumble the cooled cake into a large mixing bowl. Avoid large chunks to ensure a smooth, uniform texture that blends well with the frosting.
- Pro tip: Ensure the cake is completely cooled before crumbling to prevent clumping and sogginess.
- Crumble the cake evenly to avoid dry pockets or overly dense spots in the cake pops.
Mixing Cake and Frosting
Next, we combine the cake crumbs with the prepared creamy frosting to bind everything together.
- Add the frosting gradually to the crumbled cake — about ½ cup at a time.
- Use a spatula or clean hands to mix until the mixture feels moist but firm enough to roll into balls.
- The mixture should hold its shape without being sticky or too wet.
| Ingredient | Approximate Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Crumbled Cake | Entire cooled cake | Base for cake pop mixture |
| Frosting | ¾ to 1 cup | Binder for shape and moisture |
The key to perfection is balance — too little frosting will cause dry, crumbly pops; too much will make shaping difficult.
Once you have a smooth, pliable mixture that stays together in your hand, your base for the Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pop is ready for shaping and decorating.
Shaping the Cake Pops
To shape the cake pops perfectly, we start by chilling the cake and frosting mixture for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and less sticky.
Step 1: Portioning the Mixture
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out equal portions of the mixture. Consistency in size ensures even drying and beautiful presentation. We recommend using a 1.5-inch scoop for uniform cake balls.
Step 2: Rolling into Balls
Gently roll each portion between the palms of our hands to form smooth, round balls. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the cake pop light and tender, reminiscent of the Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pop’s soft texture.
Step 3: Setting the Cake Balls
Place the shaped cake balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Ensure they are evenly spaced to prevent touching during chilling.
Step 4: Chilling
Refrigerate the cake balls for at least 2 hours or freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm up completely. This step is crucial. Firm cake balls hold better on the sticks and dip smoothly in the peppermint coating without falling apart.
| Step | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Portioning | Scoop equal sizes using scoop/tbsp | Uniform size and even drying |
| Rolling | Roll gently between palms | Smooth round shape, prevents dense texture |
| Setting | Place on lined baking sheet | Allows space for hardening |
| Chilling | Refrigerate or freeze | Ensures firmness to hold shape |
Step 5: Inserting Cake Pop Sticks
Dip the tip of each cake pop stick about ½ inch into melted white candy melts. Insert the stick halfway into each cake ball, twisting slightly for a secure hold. Return the sticks with cake balls to the fridge to solidify the base before dipping.
“This technique helps secure the sticks firmly, preventing the cake pops from detaching once coated.”
By mastering these shaping steps, we set the foundation for the classic moistness and creamy peppermint flavor that defines the Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops.
Chilling the Cake Pops
Once we have rolled the cake and frosting mixture into perfectly sized balls and inserted the sticks, Chilling the Cake Pops is the crucial next step. This process ensures the cake pops firm up properly and hold their shape during dipping and decorating.
Why Chilling Matters
Chilling allows the moisture in the cake and frosting blend to redistribute evenly, making the cake pops firm yet tender. Without this step, the cake pops may crumble or the sticks could slip off when dipped into the melted peppermint coating.
How to Chill Cake Pops Effectively
- Place the cake pops upright on a lined baking sheet or tray. Using parchment paper or a silicone mat prevents sticking.
- Cover the cake pops loosely with plastic wrap to avoid drying out.
- Refrigerate the cake pops for at least 1 hour. This time is enough for the mixture to firm up but not harden excessively.
- For best results before dipping, we recommend a second chilling session right after dipping the sticks into the candy melts and before coating. This step helps the sticks stay secure.
| Step | Detail | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Place upright | On parchment or silicone-lined tray | Prevent sticking and maintain shape |
| Cover loosely | With plastic wrap | Avoid drying or crusting |
| Refrigerate for 1 hour | Chill well | Firm mixture for easy dipping |
| Dip sticks and chill | Chill again 15-30 minutes | Secure sticks firmly before coating |
Tips for Optimal Firmness
- Avoid freezing cake pops as rapid freezing can cause cracking in the coating.
- If chilling longer than 1 hour, cover tightly to lock in moisture.
- Bring the cake pops back to room temperature for 5-10 minutes after chilling to prevent condensation when dipping.
By carefully following these chilling steps, our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops will develop the ideal texture to hold their moist cake core and creamy peppermint coating perfectly. This foundation ensures a professional finish every time.
Coating the Cake Pops
Coating the cake pops is a crucial step to achieving the signature Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pop look and flavor. The smooth peppermint coating adds both visual appeal and that cool minty finish we love.
Melting the Candy Melts or Chocolate
To create a flawless, creamy coating, we start by melting the white candy melts carefully. Follow these steps for perfectly melted candy melts every time:
- Place 10 ounces of white candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power.
- Stir thoroughly between intervals to avoid burning.
- Continue heating and stirring until smooth and fully melted.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to infuse that signature mint flavor.
- Optionally, allow melted candy melts to cool slightly to thicken for easier dipping.
Tips for success:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Melting temperature | Medium power in microwave |
| Interval time | 30 seconds |
| Stirring frequency | After every interval |
| Flavoring | 1/4 tsp peppermint extract |
| Consistency goal | Smooth, thick but pourable |
Remember not to overheat as this can cause the coating to seize or become grainy. A smooth coating ensures an even dip and beautiful finish.
Dipping the Cake Pops
Dipping is where our cake pops transform into festive treats. Here’s how to get a perfectly coated peppermint cake pop:
- Hold a chilled cake pop by the stick firmly.
- Dip the cake pop straight down into the melted candy melts.
- Gently tap the stick on the bowl’s edge to remove excess coating.
- Rotate the pop to evenly coat every inch.
- Quickly sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles before the coating sets.
Pro tips for a flawless dip:
| Action | Technique |
|---|---|
| Cake pop handling | Hold stick steady; avoid shaking |
| Dipping angle | Straight down into bowl |
| Excess coating removal | Tap stick on bowl edge gently |
| Decoration timing | While coating is wet |
After dipping and decorating, place the cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or cake pop stand to dry. Allow them to set at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes or refrigerate briefly to speed up the process.
This coating process perfects our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops by sealing in moistness and delivering that creamy peppermint burst with every bite.
Decorating the Cake Pops
Decorating Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops is where we bring the festive magic to life. This step lets us customize each pop with eye-catching details that enhance both appearance and flavor. Let’s explore how to add peppermint crystals, sprinkles, edible glitter, and drizzle to make our cake pops irresistible.
Adding Peppermint Crystals and Sprinkles
To capture that classic holiday crunch and visual appeal, we add crushed peppermint crystals and festive sprinkles immediately after dipping the cake pops in the peppermint-infused white candy coating.
- Prepare Your Decorations:
- Crush peppermint candies into small, irregular pieces using a rolling pin or food processor.
- Select sprinkles that complement the holiday theme—red, green, and white nonpareils or festive sugar shapes work beautifully.
- Apply While Coating is Wet:
- Hold the dipped cake pop over a bowl or parchment paper to catch excess decorations.
- Sprinkle peppermint crystals generously on one side or roll the pop gently to coat fully.
- Add sprinkles over the crystals to create a layered texture and pop of color.
- Set Upright for Drying:
- Place the decorated cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or cake pop stand.
- This prevents smudging and keeps decorations intact while the coating hardens.
| Decoration Type | Purpose | Timing | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peppermint Crystals | Adds crunch and flavor | Immediately after dipping | Use crushed candy for texture variation |
| Festive Sprinkles | Enhances visual appeal | Right after crystals | Choose holiday colors for theme consistency |
“Applying decorations while the coating is still wet ensures they stick perfectly and stay vibrant once dried.”
Using Edible Glitter or Drizzle
For a sophisticated and sparkling finish, we incorporate edible glitter and a contrasting chocolate drizzle to elevate the look of our peppermint cake pops.
- Edible Glitter Application:
- After dipping and initial decoration, lightly dust edible glitter over the surface for a shimmer effect.
- Use a small soft brush or sprinkle directly from the container.
- Choose white, silver, or iridescent glitter to maintain the wintery vibe.
- Preparing the Drizzle:
- Melt a small amount of dark or semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring until smooth.
- For a peppermint twist, add a drop of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate.
- Drizzling Technique:
- Use a fork or piping bag with a fine tip to drizzle the chocolate back and forth over the cake pops.
- Work quickly before the base coating sets to allow the drizzle to adhere well without cracking.
- Final Drying:
- Place the drizzled cake pops back on the drying stand and chill for 10–15 minutes to fully set the drizzle.
| Decoration Element | Flavor Impact | Visual Effect | Application Tool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edible Glitter | Neutral | Sparkling shimmer | Soft brush or shaker |
| Chocolate Drizzle | Rich, peppermint hint | Elegant contrast lines | Fork or piping bag |
Setting the Cake Pops
Once we have shaped our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops into perfectly sized balls and chilled them briefly, the next critical step is Setting the Cake Pops properly. This stage ensures the cake pops hold their form firmly during the coating process and the final presentation stays impeccable.
Step 1: Arrange Cake Pops Upright for Chilling
Place the chilled cake balls onto a lined baking sheet or tray covered with parchment paper or a silicone mat. To keep them perfectly upright:
- Use a styrofoam block or a cake pop stand
- Gently insert each cake pop stick about halfway into each cake ball, making sure it feels secure but not forced.
Step 2: Refrigerate to Firm Up Cake Pops
Refrigerate the cake pops for at least 1 hour. This chilling process allows the moisture from the cake and frosting blend to redistribute evenly and the cake pops to firm up sufficiently, helping them maintain structure during the upcoming dipping.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Positioning | Upright on parchment-lined tray or in styrofoam |
| Stick Insertion Depth | Halfway into cake balls |
| Chilling Duration | Minimum 1 hour in refrigerator |
Step 3: Optional Second Chill After Stick Insertion
For added stability during dipping, we recommend an additional cooldown after inserting sticks if chilled first without them. This second chilling time further solidifies the bond between the cake pop and the stick.
“Firm, well-chilled cake pops are vital to avoid crumbling or slipping sticks when dipped into the peppermint coating.”
Step 4: Visual and Textural Check
Before moving to dip, check for:
- Uniform size and shape
- Firmness by gently pressing them; they should feel solid but with a slight give
A well-set cake pop should be easy to handle, preventing breakage and ensuring the smooth peppermint coating adheres flawlessly.
By meticulously following these steps to set the cake pops, we set ourselves up for a successful and enjoyable coating and decorating experience with our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pop Recipe.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops, we recommend serving them in ways that enhance their festive charm and delicious peppermint flavor. Here are some creative and practical serving ideas to make your cake pops the star of any gathering:
Pairing Beverages
- Hot Drinks: Serve alongside hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or freshly brewed coffee to complement the minty sweetness.
- Cold Drinks: Pair with iced coffee or milkshakes for a refreshing contrast during warmer days.
Presentation Tips
- Arrange the cake pops upright on a decorative stand or in a festive foam block wrapped in holiday-themed paper.
- Tie each stick with a small ribbon in red, white, or green to add a touch of holiday spirit.
- Serve on a platter sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies or edible glitter for extra sparkle.
Portion and Occasion
| Occasion | Serving Size | Suggested Accompaniments |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday parties | 2-3 cake pops per person | Eggnog, coffee, or mulled cider |
| Family gatherings | 1-2 cake pops per person | Hot cocoa with whipped cream |
| Gift giving | 6-12 cake pops per box or jar | Include a personalized note or tag |
| Office treats | Individual cake pops per desk setting | Coffee or tea |
Storage Before Serving
Keep cake pops chilled until 15 minutes before serving. This allows them to warm slightly, enhancing the creamy peppermint coating and moist cake interior without losing shape.
“Serving these cake pops at the right temperature unlocks their fullest flavor and texture, making each bite a celebration of festive indulgence.”
Creative Serving Ideas
- Dessert Buffet: Add multiple flavors by pairing Peppermint Cake Pops with chocolate or vanilla varieties for a diverse selection.
- Gift boxes: Arrange them in clear boxes or jars tied with holiday ribbons as gifts or party favors.
- Themed platters: Create a winter wonderland display using snowflake decorations, mini candy canes, and seasonal greenery.
By following these Serving Suggestions, we can elevate the simple joy of our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops into a memorable holiday treat that delights guests of all ages.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage of our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops ensures they maintain their moist texture and vibrant peppermint flavor. Follow these detailed steps to keep your cake pops fresh and delicious:
Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days)
- Place the cake pops in an airtight container.
- Store the container at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Avoid refrigerating during this period as it can dry out the cake and dull the glossy peppermint coating.
- For extra protection, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Long-Term Storage (Up to 1 Week)
- Arrange the cake pops in a single layer inside an airtight container.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate immediately after preparation to slow spoilage.
- Before serving, let the cake pops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to restore optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing for Extended Storage (Up to 1 Month)
- Wrap each cake pop individually in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped cake pops in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag.
- Label the container with the date of freezing.
- To thaw, transfer cake pops to the refrigerator overnight.
- Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for best taste and consistency.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term | Airtight container | Room temperature | 1-2 days | Avoid direct sunlight |
| Long-Term | Airtight container + wrap | Refrigerated | Up to 1 week | Let sit 30 mins before serving |
| Freezing | Wrapped + airtight | Freezer | Up to 1 month | Thaw in fridge overnight |
“Proper storage preserves the moistness and vibrant peppermint flavor that defines our Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops.“
By following these steps, we guarantee that each bite of your homemade cake pops will be as delightful as the first.
Conclusion
Making Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops at home lets us enjoy a festive treat anytime with just the right balance of minty sweetness and moist cake. With the right ingredients and techniques, these cake pops turn out beautifully smooth and full of flavor.
Whether we’re sharing them at holiday parties or savoring them with a cozy drink, they bring a special touch to any occasion. Plus, knowing how to store them properly means we can keep that fresh, delightful taste longer.
These cake pops are more than just a snack—they’re a simple way to spread holiday cheer and create memorable moments together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops at home?
You need white cake mix, milk, eggs, butter, vanilla for the cake base; butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, heavy cream for frosting; and white candy melts, peppermint extract, crushed peppermint candies, and optional sprinkles for the peppermint coating.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for the cake pop mixture?
Crumble the cooled cake finely, then mix with frosting until it forms a firm but smooth dough that holds shape without being too wet or dry.
Why is chilling important during the cake pop-making process?
Chilling helps firm up the mixture for easier shaping and prevents crumbling. It also ensures the coating sets smoothly without melting the cake inside.
What is the best method to dip cake pops in the peppermint coating?
Melt the candy melts until smooth, then dip each chilled cake pop completely. Tap off excess coating and immediately add decorations before the coating hardens.
How should I store Peppermint Cake Pops for short-term use?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Avoid refrigeration to maintain moisture and flavor.
Can Peppermint Cake Pops be frozen for longer storage?
Yes, wrap each cake pop individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving to keep texture and taste.
What equipment do I need to make these cake pops?
Essential tools include a mixing bowl, baking pan, cooling rack, food processor or hands for crumbling, cake pop sticks, and a stand or styrofoam for drying.
How can I decorate Starbucks Peppermint Cake Pops festively?
Use crushed peppermint candies, sprinkles, edible glitter, and chocolate drizzle to add colorful, festive touches while the coating is still wet.
What are some serving suggestions for these cake pops?
Serve with hot drinks like coffee or hot chocolate, or cold beverages such as iced coffee. Present them on decorative stands and tie ribbons on sticks for added charm.
How do I prevent the cake pops from crumbling?
Ensure the cake is fully cooled before crumbling, mix with enough frosting to hold together, chill the mixture, and avoid over-handling during shaping and dipping.