How To Make Starbucks Chocolate Cake Pops

How to Make Starbucks-Inspired Chocolate Cake Pops

Want to recreate the decadent deliciousness of a Starbucks chocolate cake pop at home? This guide will walk you through a simple, yet incredibly satisfying recipe that will have you feeling like a professional pastry chef in no time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these irresistible treats!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe focuses on achieving that rich, intensely chocolatey flavor reminiscent of Starbucks' offerings.

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup freshly brewed strong coffee (cooled)

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (or your preferred chocolate – milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or a combination!)
• 1 tablespoon shortening (optional, for a smoother, shinier coating)
• Sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or other decorative elements (optional)

Equipment:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper
• Toothpicks
• Lollipop sticks
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Baking sheet

Baking the Chocolate Cake:

This is where the magic begins! Follow these steps carefully for a perfectly moist and flavorful cake.

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Then, stir in the cooled coffee. Don't overmix!

Step 5: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial – attempting to work with warm cake will result in messy cake pops.

Creating the Cake Pops:

Now for the fun part!

Step 1: Crumble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, crumble them into a large bowl. Break them down into small pieces.

Step 2: Add Frosting (Optional)

For extra moisture and richness, stir in ½ cup to 1 cup of your favorite chocolate frosting. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it enhances the overall texture.

Step 3: Mix Thoroughly

Use your hands or a spatula to thoroughly combine the cake crumbs and frosting (if using) until a workable dough forms. It should be slightly moist but not sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This prevents the chocolate coating from melting too quickly.

Coating the Cake Pops:

Get ready for the final, delicious touch!

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Melt the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 2: Dip & Decorate

Insert a lollipop stick about halfway into each cake ball. Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated. Gently tap off any excess chocolate.

Step 3: Decorate (Optional)

Immediately after dipping, sprinkle with your desired decorations (sprinkles, chocolate shavings, etc.).

Step 4: Set

Place the coated cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or a cup to allow the chocolate to set completely. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are firm.

Enjoy Your Starbucks-Inspired Chocolate Cake Pops!

These homemade cake pops are a delightful treat, perfect for parties, gifts, or simply indulging in a delicious moment of self-care. Remember to experiment with different chocolate types and decorations to personalize your cake pops and unleash your inner creativity! Enjoy!