Who can resist the charm of Starbucks’ Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops? These bite-sized delights perfectly combine rich, fudgy brownie goodness with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making them a holiday favorite we can enjoy year-round. They’re festive, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying—ideal for a quick treat or a party platter.
Instead of waiting in line at Starbucks, why not make these at home? Recreating this classic is easier than you’d think, and the best part is we can customize them to suit our taste. Whether you’re a fan of extra peppermint or prefer a darker chocolate coating, this recipe lets us bring the magic of Starbucks right into our kitchen.
Starbucks Peppermint Brownie Cake Pop Recipe
Recreating the iconic Starbucks Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft the same indulgent treat, complete with the rich brownie center, refreshing peppermint flavor, and a delicious chocolate coating. Here’s how we do it.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 box brownie mix (choose your favorite)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
For the Peppermint Layer:
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For Decorating:
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted)
- 1 tbsp vegetable shortening (for a smoother coating)
- Crushed peppermint candies (for garnish)
- Paper lollipop sticks
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Brownie Base
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Follow the box mix instructions to prepare the brownie batter. Combine your eggs, oil, and water with the mix, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the brownies cool completely before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppermint Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Once the brownies are cooled, crumble them in a large bowl and mix in the peppermint cream. Use clean hands or a spoon to incorporate everything evenly, forming a moist dough-like consistency.
Step 3: Form the Cake Pop Balls
- Take small portions of the brownie-peppermint mixture and roll them into 1-1.5 inch balls. You should have about 16-20 cake balls.
- Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 4: Insert Sticks and Coat
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with vegetable shortening in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully smooth.
- Dip the end of a lollipop stick into the chocolate and insert it halfway into a brownie ball. Repeat for all balls.
- Once all sticks are inserted, submerge each ball completely into the melted chocolate, ensuring an even coating. Use a spoon if needed for coverage.
Step 5: Decorate and Set
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies evenly over each pop.
- Place the pops upright in Styrofoam or on parchment paper. Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Storage Tip
Place the finished cake pops in an airtight container. They can last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.
Quick Reference Table for Timing
| Step | Task | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat and Bake | Preparing the brownie base | 25-30 mins |
| Cool and Crumble | Allow to cool and mix | 45 mins |
| Form and Chill | Shaping and refrigeration | 30 minutes |
| Coat and Decorate | Dip and garnish | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | Prep and finishing touches | ~2 hours |
Ingredients
To create our Starbucks-inspired Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops, we need a precise combination of ingredients for the brownie base, peppermint layer, and the decorative coating. Below is a detailed breakdown, ensuring all elements come together for that rich, minty, and chocolatey delight we all love.
Brownie Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Peppermint Mixture:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
Chocolate Coating & Decorations:
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate or dark chocolate chips (melted)
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 1 Tbsp coconut oil (optional for smooth melting)
- 25-30 cake pop sticks or lollipop sticks
Quick Reference Table for Ingredient Quantities:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Use |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Brownie base |
| Baking powder | 1/2 tsp | Brownie base leavening |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | Enhances flavors |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/2 cup | Moisture for brownies |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetness for brownies |
| Eggs | 2 large | Structure in brownies |
| Cocoa powder (unsweetened) | 1/3 cup | Deep chocolate flavor |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Aroma and flavor enhancer |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 1/2 cup | Peppermint mixture base |
| Peppermint extract | 1/2 tsp | Signature minty flavor |
| Powdered sugar (sifted) | 1/4 cup | Sweetens peppermint layer |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 12 oz | Coating for cake pops |
| Coconut oil (optional) | 1 Tbsp | Smoother chocolate coating |
| Crushed peppermint candies | 1/4 cup | Festive decoration |
| Cake pop sticks | 25-30 sticks | For cake pop assembly |
Tools And Equipment
To achieve the perfect Starbucks Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops, having the right tools and equipment is essential. These will not only simplify the process but also ensure that our cake pops come out looking professional and delicious. Here’s what we’ll need:
Essential Tools
- Mixing bowls: At least two medium-sized bowls to mix the brownie batter and the peppermint cream filling.
- Electric mixer or stand mixer: To blend ingredients thoroughly for a smooth brownie and peppermint mixture.
- Whisk: For combining dry ingredients without any lumps.
- Spatula: A silicone spatula works best for scraping down the side of the bowls and folding mixtures.
- Baking pan: A standard 9×13-inch pan is perfect for baking the brownie base evenly.
- Parchment paper: To line the baking pan, making it easy to remove the brownies without sticking.
- Cooling rack: Helps cool the brownies evenly after baking before crumbling.
- Sharp knife: For cutting the brownies into smaller pieces to simplify crumbling.
- Food processor or your hands: To crumble the baked brownie into fine crumbs.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: Ensures evenly-sized cake pop balls for uniform results.
Cake Pop Assembly
- Cake pop sticks: Essential for creating pops and handling them during decorating.
- Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mixing with the coconut oil for the coating.
- Fork or slotted spoon: Useful for dipping and rolling the cake pops in melted chocolate evenly.
- Styrofoam block or cake pop stand: To hold the assembled cake pops upright while the chocolate coating sets.
- Ziploc bag or piping bag: To pipe any additional decorative chocolate on the finished cake pops.
Decoration
- Crushed peppermint candies: To sprinkle over the chocolate coating for the classic festive look.
- Small bowl: Helps roll the cake pops in crushed peppermint or sprinkle the crushed candies over them.
Quick Reference Table
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Combining and preparing different mixtures |
| Electric/stand mixer | Blending ingredients into smooth, consistent mixes |
| Baking pan (9×13-inch) | For baking the brownie base evenly |
| Cooling rack | Cools brownies evenly after baking |
| Cake pop sticks | Holds cake pops upright for dipping and decorating |
| Styrofoam block or stand | Secures pops during coating/drying |
Directions
Recreating Starbucks’ iconic Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops is straightforward with these detailed steps. Follow along carefully to achieve perfectly rich, minty, and festive treats.
Step 1: Prep The Brownie Base
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang slightly for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in 1 cup granulated sugar and 2/3 cup cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Slowly whisk in 2 eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely on a cooling rack.
Step 2: Make The Peppermint Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz cream cheese and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar and mix until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Adjust peppermint extract based on your preferred flavor intensity.
Step 3: Assemble The Cake Pops
- Crumble the cooled brownies into a large bowl until they resemble fine crumbs.
- Add the peppermint frosting to the crumbled brownies, starting with half and then mixing thoroughly. Add more frosting as needed until the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture, roll it into a smooth ball, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat for the remaining mixture.
- Dip cake pop sticks into melted semi-sweet chocolate chips (just a small tip) and insert halfway into each brownie ball.
- Place the formed cake pops in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up.
Step 4: Chill The Cake Pops
- Transfer the cake pops to the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes after freezing to ensure the brownie balls are firm but not too hard for dipping.
- Meanwhile, melt 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 2 teaspoons coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second increments and stirring until smooth.
Step 5: Dip In Chocolate And Decorate
- Remove the chilled cake pops from the fridge. Holding each stick, dip a cake pop fully into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off by gently tapping the stick on the side of the bowl.
- Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the wet chocolate coating for a festive finish.
- Place the coated cake pops upright into a styrofoam block or cake pop stand to dry completely.
- Repeat the process for all the cake pops. Once the chocolate sets, store the cake pops in an airtight container.
| Process Step | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| Prep Brownie Base | 35 minutes |
| Make Peppermint Frosting | 10 minutes |
| Assemble Cake Pops | 30 minutes |
| Chill Time | 40 minutes |
| Dip & Decorate | 20 minutes |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these Starbucks-inspired Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops in advance is a fantastic way to save time and ensure they’re ready when you need them. Here’s how we can strategically plan and store each component for maximum freshness and convenience:
Preparing the Elements in Advance
- Brownie Base:
- Bake the brownies up to 2 days ahead. Once baked and cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store at room temperature to preserve their fudgy texture.
- Peppermint Mixture:
- The peppermint frosting can be made up to 3 days in advance. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes and give it a quick stir for easy spreading.
- Cake Pop Balls:
- Fully prepare and shape the cake pop balls with brownie crumbs and peppermint mixture. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for up to 1 week. For best results, wrap them in plastic wrap or store in a freezer-safe container.
- Chocolate Coating:
- While the chocolate coating is best melted fresh, you can chop the chocolate or measure out the chocolate chips and coconut oil ahead of time. Store these in a sealed container at room temperature for quick access.
Assembling on Your Schedule
To streamline preparation:
- Start with frozen cake pop balls. Remove them from the freezer 30 minutes before dipping to allow them to soften slightly.
- Melt the chocolate just before dipping for a perfectly smooth coating.
- Decorate immediately with crushed peppermint candies while the coating is still wet to ensure they stick perfectly.
Storage Options Post-Assembly
Once the cake pops are fully assembled and decorated, you can safely store them for several days or freeze for longer shelf life. Use this table as a reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature (Covered) | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container away from direct heat or sunlight. |
| Refrigerated | Up to 7 days | Keep in a sealed container to prevent drying out or absorbing odors. |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. |
Incorporating these make-ahead strategies ensures that our Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops are just as delicious and festive as when made fresh without scrambling on the day of your event.
Storage Tips
Ensuring freshness for our Starbucks Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops is all about proper storage. Whether we’re saving them for a few days or prepping for a future event, following these tips will keep our treats rich, moist, and flavorful.
1. Storing at Room Temperature
For maximum freshness, store the finished cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to enjoy them within 2-3 days. This method helps maintain their texture and prevents the chocolate coating from melting or cracking.
- Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers of cake pops to prevent sticking.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
2. Refrigeration for Extended Freshness
To enjoy our cake pops for up to 1 week, refrigerate them. Follow these easy steps:
- Transfer cake pops to an airtight container, ensuring they are spaced to avoid touching.
- Line the bottom of the container with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- Allow refrigerated cake pops to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the brownie’s texture.
Note: The peppermint flavor may mellow in the fridge, but the rich brownie texture will remain intact.
3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
Need to prepare cake pops well in advance? Freezing is the best option. Proper freezing ensures they last up to 2 months without losing quality. Here’s what to do:
- Wrap each individual cake pop tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper to prevent freezer burn.
- Arrange the wrapped cake pops in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Pro Tip: Label the container with the date to track storage time.
Quick Reference Table: Storage Durations
| Storage Method | Ideal Duration | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 Days | Use an airtight container and parchment paper layers. |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 Week | Use paper towels in the container; allow to soften before serving. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 Months | Wrap individually; store in a freezer-safe container or bag. |
4. Thawing and Serving Frozen Cake Pops
To serve frozen cake pops:
- Remove the desired number of pops from the freezer and unwrap them.
- Place them in the fridge for 4-6 hours to thaw gradually.
- Let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before enjoying.
By following these steps, we can enjoy our homemade, festive Starbucks Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops anytime without compromising their flavor or texture.
Conclusion
Creating Starbucks-inspired Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops at home is a fun and rewarding experience. It allows us to enjoy their festive flavors while adding our personal touch. Whether we’re preparing them for a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cake pops are sure to impress.
With the right ingredients, tools, and step-by-step guidance, we can confidently recreate this iconic dessert. Plus, the flexibility to make them ahead and store them ensures they’re always ready when we need them. Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring a little Starbucks magic to our kitchens!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Starbucks’ Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops so popular?
These treats are loved for their rich brownie base combined with a refreshing peppermint twist. Their festive flavor and perfect balance of sweetness and mintiness make them especially popular during the holidays.
Can I make Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops at home?
Yes, absolutely! The article provides a detailed recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for recreating these cake pops at home.
What ingredients do I need to make Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops?
You’ll need ingredients like all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, eggs, butter, cream cheese, peppermint extract, chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies. A full, detailed list is included in the recipe.
What tools do I need to create these cake pops?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, a whisk, a baking pan, a cooling rack, cake pop sticks, and items for decorating, such as crushed peppermint candies.
How long does it take to make Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops?
The process typically takes a few hours, including baking, assembling, and decorating. A quick reference table in the article breaks down timing for each step.
Can I customize the recipe for Peppermint Brownie Cake Pops?
Yes, you can adjust the peppermint flavor level, chocolate coatings, and decorations to suit your personal preferences.
How do I store the finished cake pops?
Store them at room temperature for 2-3 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months. Detailed thawing and serving instructions are included in the article.
Can I prepare these cake pops in advance?
Yes! The brownie base, peppermint mixture, and cake pop balls can all be made ahead and stored separately until assembly.
How do I ensure my cake pops turn out perfectly?
Following the recipe closely, using the recommended tools, and properly chilling the cake pops before dipping ensures the best results.
What’s the best method for achieving a smooth chocolate coating?
Melt the chocolate with a small amount of coconut oil for a smooth and shiny finish. Chill the cake pops beforehand to make dipping easier.