Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These birthday cake pops are everything you love about the Starbucks version, but you can make them right in your own kitchen! They’re soft, sweet, and packed with that signature vanilla flavor that pairs so perfectly with the creamy, sweet buttercream filling. The white candy melt coating, topped with colorful sprinkles, adds the perfect crunch and festive touch. The best part? You get to make a batch of 30 pops, which means you can enjoy these for a while (or share them with friends and family)!

Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

1 box (13.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
⅓ cup neutral oil (vegetable, avocado, or canola)
1 cup milk or water
4 large eggs

For the Vanilla Buttercream:

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon milk (add more if needed)

For the Coating:

12 oz candy melts (pink or white)
White nonpareils or sprinkles

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325-350℉ (162-175℃), based on the size of your baking pan. Follow the cake box instructions for temperature.
Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, oil, milk (or water), and eggs. Mix until smooth and pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan. Bake according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean 2-4 minutes before the recommended bake time is up. Avoid overbaking.
Crumble the Cake: Once the cake is baked, transfer it immediately into a stand mixer bowl while it’s still hot. Use the paddle attachment on low speed to crumble the cake into small pieces. Alternatively, use a handheld mixer or crumble the cake by hand if preferred.
Prepare the Buttercream: In a small bowl, mix together the butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and milk. Stir until smooth, but small lumps may still appear.
Combine Cake and Buttercream: Add the buttercream mixture to the crumbled cake and mix until fully incorporated.
Shape the Cake Pops: Roll the cake mixture into 1¼-inch (3 cm) balls, weighing about 30g each. Chill the cake pops in the freezer for 15 minutes, then let them rest at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prepare the candy melts.
Melt the Candy Melts: Melt a small amount of candy melts in the microwave, stirring every 15-30 seconds until smooth and thin. Dip the tips of your lollipop sticks into the melted candy, then gently insert them halfway into each cake ball. Chill the cake pops again in the freezer for 15 minutes.
Dip the Cake Pops: Once the cake pops are chilled, melt the remaining candy melts until they reach the desired consistency. Dip each cake pop into the melted candy, ensuring it’s completely submerged up to the stick. Tap the stick gently to remove any excess candy coating.
Decorate: While the coating is still wet, immediately decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils. Place the finished cake pops into a styrofoam block or similar holder to dry and set.
Enjoy: Repeat the process until all the cake pops are dipped and decorated!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes 30 cake pops.
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (split between two chilling stages)
Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

Flavor Variations: While vanilla is a classic flavor, feel free to try other cake mixes, such as chocolate or strawberry, for different flavor profiles.
Coating Variations: Instead of pink or white candy melts, experiment with other colors or even drizzle chocolate on top for a richer flavor.
Decoration Variations: Switch up the sprinkles based on the occasion! Use colored sprinkles for holidays or themed parties, or even add edible glitter for extra sparkle.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Cake pops can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: Cake pops do not need to be reheated. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!

FAQs

1. How long do cake pops last?

Cake pops can last for up to 3 days at room temperature and up to 1 week in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month.

2. Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the vanilla cake mix with any other flavor of cake mix that you prefer, such as chocolate, strawberry, or red velvet.

3. Do I have to use candy melts to coat the cake pops?

Candy melts are the easiest option, but you can also use chocolate (white, milk, or dark). Just melt it carefully and dip the cake pops as usual.

4. How do I keep my cake pops from falling off the stick?

Make sure to dip the stick into the melted candy melt before inserting it into the cake pop. This helps anchor the stick. Also, avoid dipping the cake pop too many times, as the weight of extra coating can cause it to detach.

5. Can I use a handheld mixer instead of a stand mixer to crumble the cake?

Yes, a handheld mixer works fine for crumbling the cake, or you can simply crumble it by hand once it cools slightly.

6. Can I make these cake pops ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cake balls and chill them ahead of time, then coat them with candy melts and decorate when you’re ready to serve.

7. Can I use a different type of oil for the cake?

Yes, you can substitute the neutral oil with vegetable, canola, or even avocado oil, depending on your preference.

8. What is the best way to melt candy melts?

Microwave the candy melts in 15-30 second intervals, stirring after each round, until they reach a smooth and thin consistency.

9. Can I make these without sprinkles?

Yes, sprinkles are optional! You can also use other decorations like edible glitter, colored sugars, or even drizzle with chocolate.

10. How do I know when my cake is fully baked?

Use a toothpick to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs), it’s done.

Conclusion

Making these Starbucks Copycat Birthday Cake Pops at home is easier than you think and a fun way to enjoy a delicious treat with your loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a sweet snack, these cake pops deliver on flavor, fun, and festive flair. Try them today and indulge in your own homemade version of this beloved dessert!