Description
This recipe recreates the beloved Starbucks Birthday Cake Pops, featuring moist vanilla cake balls coated in creamy candy melts and decorated with festive sprinkles. Perfect for celebrations or a fun treat, these cake pops combine classic birthday cake flavors with a playful presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Mix Ingredients
- 1 box (13.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
- â…“ cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- 1 cup milk or water
- 4 large eggs
Buttercream Filling
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Coating and Decoration
- 12 oz candy melts (vanilla or white chocolate flavored)
- Sprinkles or nonpareils for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven temperature between 325°F and 350°F (162°C to 175°C) according to the cake mix package instructions to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, neutral oil, milk or water, and eggs. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter into a prepared pan and bake following the package directions until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from oven and let the cake cool completely.
- Crumble Cake: Once cooled, crumble the cake into fine crumbs using a stand mixer or by hand in a large bowl for even texture.
- Mix in Buttercream: Prepare the buttercream filling by combining softened butter and powdered sugar. Fold this mixture into the crumbled cake until fully incorporated and moldable.
- Form Cake Balls: Roll the cake mixture into approximately 1¼ inch diameter balls. Place the balls on a tray and chill in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Melt Candy Coating: Melt the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl according to package instructions, stirring until smooth.
- Dip and Decorate: Insert lollipop sticks into each chilled cake ball and dip them into the melted candy coating to cover completely. Immediately decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils before the coating sets. Allow the pops to dry and harden at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure cake is completely cooled before crumbling to avoid a soggy mixture.
- Chilling the cake balls helps them hold their shape while dipping.
- Use a fork or dipping tool to help remove excess coating for a smoother finish.
- Store cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Customize decorations with colored candy melts or themed sprinkles for different occasions.
