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Starbucks Chocolate Cake Pops Copycat - The Ultimate DIY Recipe

This recipe gives you everything you need to recreate Starbucks' famous Chocolate Cake Pops in your kitchen. Perfect for a fun project, these cake pops are sure to be a hit at any party or as a cute homemade gift.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Cake Pops
Calories 170 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing bowls
  • 1 Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • 1 Baking sheet
  • 1 Parchment paper
  • 1 Cake pop sticks (or sturdy straws)
  • 1 Microwave-safe bowl
  • Cooling rack (optional)
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar granulated
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder unsweetened
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk whole
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

For the Frosting:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder unsweetened
  • 1 tbsp whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating:

  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips semi-sweet
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (optional, for smoother coating)
  • Sprinkles or other toppings (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1 - Prepare the Cake
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
    Add 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 large egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and well combined.Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before moving on to the next step.
  • Step 2 - Make the Frosting
    In a separate bowl, beat 1/4 cup of softened butter with a hand mixer until creamy .Add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, mixing at low speed. Gradually add 1 tablespoon of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
  • Step 3 - Crumble and Combine
    Once the cake is completely cooled, crumble it into fine crumbs in a large bowl. Add the frosting, a little at a time, and mix until the cake is moist enough to hold its shape when pressed. You may not need all the frosting.
  • Step 4 - Form the Cake Balls
    Roll the cake mixture into 1-inch balls, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Insert a cake pop stick into each ball and freeze them for 15-20 minutes to firm up.

Video

Notes

  • Smooth Coating: Add a small amount of vegetable oil to your melted chocolate for a smoother, shinier coating.
  • Perfect Texture: If the cake pop mixture is too wet, freeze it longer before dipping in chocolate to achieve the perfect texture.
  • Customization: Try swapping out the chocolate cake for vanilla or red velvet, or using different coatings like white chocolate or candy melts.
Keyword Cake, Cake Pops, Cakes, Dessert, Starbucks