Who doesn’t love those adorable, bite-sized chocolate cake pops from Starbucks? They’re the perfect treat—rich, moist cake coated in a smooth chocolate shell, all served on a convenient stick. While they’re a coffee shop favorite, making them at home is easier than you’d think and just as delicious.
Chocolate Cake Pop Starbucks Recipe
Let’s bring the joy of Starbucks Chocolate Cake Pops to your kitchen. This detailed recipe will guide us step-by-step to recreate those deliciously moist, perfectly sweet chocolate pops, complete with a smooth candy coating. Gather up your ingredients, and let’s start baking!
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup boiling water
For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For assembly and coating:
- 2 cups chocolate candy melts (any brand or preference)
- 20 to 25 cake pop sticks
- Sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions
1. Bake the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round or square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Whisk to combine.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gradually stir in the boiling water to make a smooth batter. The batter will be thin—this is normal.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Chocolate Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed initially to avoid spills.
- Mix in the milk and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
3. Crumble and Combine
- Use your hands or a fork to crumble the cooled cake into fine crumbs in a large bowl.
- Add the chocolate frosting, one spoonful at a time, mixing until the texture resembles moldable dough. Use only enough frosting to make the mixture hold together.
4. Shape and Chill
- Scoop out even portions of the mixture (around 1.5 tablespoons) and roll into smooth balls using your palms.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours or until firm.
5. Melt the Candy Coating
- Melt the chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the coating is smooth and fully melted.
- If the coating seems too thick, stir in a small amount of vegetable oil to thin it out.
6. Assemble the Cake Pops
- Dip 1/2 inch of a cake pop stick into the melted candy coating, then insert it halfway into a chilled cake ball. Repeat for all the cake pops. This step helps the cake ball adhere to the stick.
- Let the sticks set in the fridge for 10 minutes.
7. Dip and Decorate
- Fully submerge each cake pop into the melted candy coating. Gently tap the stick against the side of the bowl to remove excess coating.
- While the coating is still wet, top with sprinkles or decorations if desired.
- Place the cake pops upright in a foam block or cake pop stand to allow the coating to set.
Quick Tip Table
| Step | Pro Tip |
|---|---|
| Shaping Cake Balls | Use a small cookie scoop to ensure uniform sizes for even coating and presentation. |
| Candy Coating | Work in small batches, keeping uncoated cake balls in the fridge to prevent softening. |
| Storing Extras | Refrigerate finished cake pops in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze longer. |
Ingredients
To recreate the rich, moist, and indulgent chocolate cake pops like those from Starbucks, we need a precise set of ingredients divided into three parts: cake, frosting, and coating. Let’s gather everything we need:
For the Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Chocolate Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tip: Sifting the powdered sugar and cocoa powder ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting.
For the Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Optional Decorations
- Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible glitter (for added flair)
- Cake pop sticks or sturdy lollipop sticks
Quantity Table for Clarity
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Cake base |
| Cocoa powder | 1/4 cup + 1/4 cup | Cake + Frosting |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup | Sweetener (Cake) |
| Semisweet chocolate | 2 cups | Coating |
| Butter (unsalted) | 1 cup total | Cake + Frosting |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Frosting |
| Milk | 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp | Moisture |
With these carefully measured ingredients, our cake pops are guaranteed to taste just like Starbucks’ signature chocolate treats.
Equipment Needed
To make Starbucks-style chocolate cake pops at home, we need to gather the right equipment to ensure our treats come out perfectly. Having the correct tools not only simplifies the process but also ensures professional results.
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls – At least two: one for the cake batter and another for the frosting. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer – For combining the cake batter and whipping the frosting to a smooth consistency.
- Whisk – For dry ingredients to ensure a consistent blend.
- Rubber Spatula – Ideal for folding ingredients and scraping down sides of bowls.
- Baking Pan – Use a 9-inch round or square pan for evenly baked cake layers.
- Cooling Rack – To cool the baked cake properly before crumbling.
- Food Processor or Hands – For crumbling the cake into fine crumbs. A food processor speeds this up.
- Ice Cream Scoop or Cookie Scoop – Ensures uniform cake pop sizes every time.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat – For placing the cake balls before freezing or coating, ensuring easy removal.
- Lollipop Sticks – Essential for forming the classic “pop” structure of the treat.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl – For melting the semisweet chocolate or candy melts.
- Fork or Dipping Tool – Assists in coating the cake pops smoothly and achieving a professional finish.
- Styrofoam Block or Cake Pop Stand – A must-have for drying the coated cake pops upright without smudging.
Equipment Purpose Reference Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing cake batter and frosting. |
| Electric Mixer | Achieving smooth blending for batter and frosting. |
| Whisk | Combining dry ingredients evenly. |
| Rubber Spatula | Folding ingredients and scraping batter. |
| Baking Pan | Baking the cake layer evenly. |
| Cooling Rack | Ensuring proper cooling before crumbling. |
| Food Processor | Turning baked cake into fine crumbs quickly. |
| Ice Cream Scoop | Forming evenly sized cake balls. |
| Parchment Paper | Non-stick surface for prepping cake balls or coating. |
| Lollipop Sticks | Providing the iconic cake pop structure. |
| Microwave-Safe Bowl | Melting chocolate or candy coating safely. |
| Fork/Dipping Tool | Achieving a smooth coating for each pop. |
| Styrofoam Block | Drying the coated pops without smudges or marks. |
Investing in these key tools ensures that recreating the moist, chocolatey cake pops at home is an enjoyment, not a hassle. The lollipop sticks and Styrofoam block especially contribute to that professional finish that makes these treats shine.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating rich and indulgent chocolate cake pops, just like Starbucks! Follow this detailed guide to bring these treats to life in your kitchen.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly and lining the base with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Measure and organize all your ingredients for the cake, frosting, and coating to streamline the process.
- Sift together the dry ingredients (all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt) into a mixing bowl. This step ensures a smooth and lump-free cake batter.
Bake The Cake
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each addition is well mixed.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients in batches, alternating with whole milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
- 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.
Crumble The Cake And Make Cake Mixture
- Once the cake has cooled, use your hands or a food processor to finely crumble the cake into a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the chocolate frosting by beating the unsalted butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add the frosting to the crumbled cake, starting with 3 tablespoons. Mix thoroughly using a rubber spatula or your hands until the mixture achieves a dough-like consistency.
- Check the texture: the mixture should be moist, pliable, and hold its shape when rolled into a ball. Add more frosting sparingly if needed.
Shape The Cake Pops
- Use an ice cream scoop or tablespoon to portion out even amounts of the cake mixture.
- Roll each portion into a smooth ball with your palms. Aim for 1–1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the rolled balls onto a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 1 hour or freeze for 20 minutes. This ensures they firm up and hold their shape.
- Melt a small amount of chocolate coating (see next section). Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the coating and insert it halfway into a cake ball. This step helps secure the stick before dipping.
- Refrigerate the cake pops again for 10–15 minutes to set the sticks firmly.
Melt The Chocolate Coating
- Add the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (or vegetable shortening) to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until the chocolate melts completely and becomes smooth. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Transfer the melted chocolate into a deep, narrow container (like a glass) for easy dipping.
- Remove the chilled cake pops from the fridge. Holding the stick, gently dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Allow excess chocolate to drip off by gently tapping the stick against the edge of the container while rotating the pop for an even coat.
- Optional: Quickly add sprinkles, edible glitter, or other decorations while the coating is still wet.
- Place the finished cake pops upright in a Styrofoam block or cake pop stand to dry and harden completely.
Assemble The Cake Pops
Now that our cake pops are shaped and chilled, it’s time to elevate them with their rich chocolate coating and prepare them for their signature presentation. Follow these steps to assemble our Starbucks-inspired chocolate cake pops flawlessly.
Dip The Sticks
- Melt 1-2 tablespoons of the chocolate coating in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 15-20 second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Take the lollipop sticks and dip about ½ inch of one end into the melted chocolate.
- Insert the coated end into the center of each chilled cake ball, pressing gently until it stops halfway.
- Place the cake pops back on the parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes. The chocolate acts as glue, ensuring the sticks stay in place while dipping.
Coat The Cake Pops
- Melt the remaining chocolate coating, adding 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to create a smooth, pourable consistency. Work in 15-20 second intervals, stirring between each to avoid scorching.
- Holding the stick, dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Rotate the pop to coat evenly.
- Gently tap the stick on the edge of the bowl, letting excess chocolate drip off.
- Immediately add sprinkles, edible glitter, or decorations over the wet chocolate if desired. This locks in vibrant, eye-catching detail before the coating sets.
Allow To Set
- Position each freshly dipped cake pop upright in a Styrofoam block or cake pop stand to allow the coating to set without smudging.
- Leave them at room temperature for around 1 hour or refrigerate for 20-30 minutes if you’re short on time.
- Once the coating is firm and the decorations are secured, your moist, chocolatey Starbucks-inspired cake pops are ready to serve or gift!
| Step | Duration | Tool/Item Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Chill after Step 1 | 10-15 minutes | Parchment-lined tray |
| Dip and Decorate | Immediate after dip | Sprinkles, edible glitter |
| Set Coating | 20-30 minutes in fridge or 1 hour at room temp | Styrofoam block or cake pop stand |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing chocolate cake pops in advance is a fantastic way to save time while ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. Let’s walk through the best methods to make these treats ahead of time, from baking the cake to storing the fully assembled cake pops.
1. Bake the Cake in Advance
We can bake the chocolate cake up to 2 days in advance. Once baked, let it cool completely at room temperature. When cooled, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerator Storage: Keeps the cake fresh for 2 days.
- Room Temperature Storage: If it’s a cool space, the cake will stay fresh for 1 day.
2. Prepare the Cake Pop Mixture
After crumbling the baked cake and combining it with frosting, roll the mixture into balls as per the recipe. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, freeze the balls in an airtight container. Here’s a guide:
| Storage Method | Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated Cake Balls | Up to 2 days |
| Frozen Cake Balls | Up to 1 month |
When ready to assemble, thaw frozen cake balls in the refrigerator overnight to maintain their texture.
3. Melt the Chocolate and Dip Later
You can melt the chocolate coating right before assembly, but if needed, the melted chocolate can be prepared earlier and reheated in short intervals in the microwave. Always re-stir to smooth out the texture, adding a few drops of coconut oil or shortening if thickened.
4. Store Assembled Cake Pops
If assembling the full cake pop in advance (coated and decorated), allow the coating to set completely. Once set, wrap each cake pop individually in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers.
| Storage Option | Ideal Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated Cake Pops | 4-7 days |
| Frozen Cake Pops (without sticks) | Up to 1 month |
Pro Tip: To freeze without damaging the coating, remove the sticks before freezing and reattach before serving.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we can simplify the process while ensuring the Starbucks-inspired chocolate cake pops stay perfectly moist, fresh, and visually appealing for any occasion.
Tips For The Perfect Cake Pops
Creating Starbucks-style chocolate cake pops at home is all about mastering the little details. Here are our expert tips to ensure your cake pops come out perfectly rich, moist, and beautifully coated every time.
1. Use Uniform Portions for Even Cake Pops
Consistency in size ensures even coating and smooth presentation. We recommend using an ice cream scoop or a tablespoon-sized measuring spoon to portion the cake mixture. This keeps the size uniform and helps the pops set evenly on the stick.
2. Properly Crumble the Cake for Better Texture
Use your hands or a food processor for crumbling the baked cake into a fine, sand-like texture. Avoid large crumbs, as they can create cracks in the cake mixture when shaped.
3. Balance the Frosting Ratio
The frosting acts as the binder for the crumbled cake. Add it gradually—about 1-2 tablespoons at a time—and mix until the texture feels like a dough that holds its shape without being overly sticky.
Pro Tip: Start with less frosting and add more as needed. Too much frosting will make the mixture overly soft, leading to sliding off the stick.
4. Chill the Cake Balls for Easy Assembly
Refrigerate the rolled cake balls for at least 2 hours or freeze them for 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial for firming them up before inserting the sticks and dipping them in chocolate.
5. Prep the Sticks with Chocolate for Stability
Dip about ½ inch of the lollipop stick into melted chocolate before inserting it into the center of each chilled cake ball. This acts as “glue,” ensuring the stick stays firmly in place.
6. Achieve Smooth, Even Chocolate Coating
Melt the chocolate chips or coating in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Add 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil or vegetable shortening for a shiny, smooth finish.
When dipping, submerge each cake pop fully in the melted chocolate and gently tap off the excess against the bowl’s side using a fork or dipping tool.
7. Work with Room Temperature Coatings
Avoid cracks in the coating by ensuring the melted chocolate is not overly hot. Pair it with cake balls that are chilled, not frozen solid, for the best results.
8. Decorate Immediately
For decorations like sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed nuts, apply them immediately after dipping while the coating is still wet. This ensures they adhere perfectly.
9. Dry the Cake Pops Without Smudges
Stick the coated pops upright into a Styrofoam block or a specialized cake pop stand to dry. This prevents flat edges and ensures an even, professional finish.
10. Store Correctly for Freshness
Keep the completed cake pops in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they remain delicious and moist.
| Step/Tip | Recommended Equipment/Time |
|---|---|
| Uniform Portions | Ice cream scoop, measuring spoon |
| Crumble Cake Properly | Hands, food processor |
| Add Frosting Gradually | 1-2 tablespoons at a time, mix until dough-like |
| Chill Cake Balls | At least 2 hours (refrigerate) or 15-20 minutes (freeze) |
| Chocolate “Glue” for Sticks | Melted chocolate, dip ½ inch of stick |
| Smooth Coating | Microwave-safe bowl, coconut oil/shortening, 30-second microwave intervals |
| Proper Decoration Application | Sprinkles, edible glitter, applied while coating is wet |
| Drying the Pops | Styrofoam block, cake pop stand |
| Storage | Airtight container, fridge (up to 5 days), freezer (up to 2 weeks) |
Following these practical tips will level up your chocolate cake pop-making skills, ensuring a Starbucks-quality treat every time.
Storing And Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying homemade chocolate cake pops, proper storage and presentation play a vital role. Let’s explore the best ways to store them and ensure they are served as delightful as the ones from Starbucks!
Storing Chocolate Cake Pops
1. Room Temperature Storage:
If you plan to consume the cake pops within 1-2 days, store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry spot, away from direct sunlight or heat. This helps maintain their moist texture and prevents the chocolate coating from melting.
2. Refrigeration for Extended Freshness:
To keep the cake pops fresh for up to 1 week, refrigerate them. Arrange them in a single layer inside a seal-tight container* lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking or smudging the coating.
3. Freezing for Longer Shelf Life:
For longer storage, freeze the cake pops for up to 8 weeks. First, wrap each pop individually with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw frozen cake pops in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve their texture.
Serving Suggestions for Starbuck-Level Presentation
1. Temperature Check Before Serving:
Allow refrigerated or frozen cake pops to reach room temperature before serving. Letting them sit for 15 to 20 minutes ensures the chocolate coating softens slightly for a more satisfying bite.
2. Creative Display Ideas:
Presentation is what makes cake pops truly stand out. Use a decorative cake pop stand, a colorful Styrofoam block, or even a ribbon-wrapped basket for a polished look. Add some flair with themed napkins or labels.
3. Perfect Pairings:
To elevate the experience, serve these decadent treats with complementary beverages:
| Cake Pop Flavor | Beverage Pairing |
|---|---|
| Chocolate | Hot Coffee or Vanilla Latte |
| Mocha Drizzle | Iced Mocha or Chocolate Frappuccino |
| Sprinkled Pops | Milkshake or Chai Tea Latte |
4. Ideal Occasions:
Cake pops are universally loved, making them perfect for events like birthday parties, baby showers, or even holiday gatherings. Customize their design to match the event’s theme by using colored sprinkles, icing drizzles, or edible glitter.
Conclusion
Making Starbucks-inspired chocolate cake pops at home is simpler than it seems and just as satisfying. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create these rich, chocolatey treats that are perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re preparing them for a party or just indulging in a sweet craving, these cake pops are sure to impress. Plus, the ability to customize flavors and decorations makes the process even more enjoyable. Let’s get creative and bring a bit of Starbucks magic into our kitchens!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Starbucks chocolate cake pops made of?
Starbucks chocolate cake pops are made using a rich chocolate cake mixed with frosting, formed into bite-sized balls, and coated in chocolate. They are served on a stick for convenient and fun snacking.
Can I make Starbucks-style chocolate cake pops at home?
Yes, you can easily recreate Starbucks-style chocolate cake pops at home using common ingredients like chocolate cake, frosting, and chocolate coating. Follow a step-by-step recipe for the best results.
What ingredients are needed for homemade chocolate cake pops?
You’ll need ingredients for the cake (such as flour, cocoa powder, butter, eggs, sugar, and milk), frosting (butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder), and coating (chocolate chips and coconut oil or shortening). Optional decorations can include sprinkles or glitter.
What tools are essential for making cake pops?
Essential tools include a baking pan, mixing bowls, an electric mixer, parchment paper, lollipop sticks, a Styrofoam block or cake pop stand, and a microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate.
How do I prevent cake pops from falling off the stick?
Dip the lollipop sticks in melted chocolate before inserting them into the cake balls. Chill the inserted cake pops before dipping to secure them properly.
How can I achieve a smooth chocolate coating on cake pops?
Ensure the melted chocolate is smooth and at the right consistency by adding coconut oil or shortening. Dip the cake pops evenly and tap off excess chocolate gently.
How should I store homemade cake pops?
Store cake pops at room temperature for 1-2 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 8 weeks. Wrap them in plastic or use an airtight container for freshness.
Can I make cake pops ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake and prepare the mixture in advance. Formed cake balls can be chilled or frozen for later assembly and decoration.
How do I ensure uniform sizes for cake pops?
Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to portion the cake mixture evenly. Roll the portions into uniform balls for consistent size and shape.
What occasions are ideal for serving cake pops?
Cake pops are perfect for birthdays, holiday parties, weddings, and casual gatherings. Customize the decorations to match the theme of your event.
Can cake pops be served with beverages?
Yes, cake pops pair well with coffee, hot chocolate, tea, or milk. Their rich, chocolatey taste complements a variety of drinks perfectly.
Do I need to refrigerate chocolate-covered cake pops?
Chocolate-covered cake pops don’t need to be refrigerated if consumed within 1-2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them to maintain freshness.