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The Easiest No-Bake Cake Pop Recipe Using Box Mix (Starbucks Copycat Vanilla Flavor)

A bouquet of white, round cake pops covered in white sprinkles, standing upright in a white mug.

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Make irresistible, moist cake pops at home using a simple box cake mix. This easy, foolproof recipe is perfect for beginners and creates delicious party treats on a stick, similar to your favorite Starbucks vanilla cake pops.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
  • Ingredients listed on cake mix box for preparation (usually eggs, oil, water)
  • 1 container (16 oz) vanilla frosting
  • 12 ounces vanilla or white candy coating wafers
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
  • Lollipop sticks
  • Sprinkles or other decorations (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bake the cake according to the package directions, using the ingredients listed on the box. Let the cake cool completely.
  2. Once cool, crumble the entire cake into fine crumbs in a large bowl. You can use your hands or a fork for this step.
  3. Add the entire container of frosting to the cake crumbs. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles thick, moist dough. You may need to use your hands to fully incorporate the frosting.
  4. Roll the dough into uniform balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Chill the cake balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing them from falling apart later.
  6. While the balls chill, prepare your candy coating. Melt the candy wafers in a microwave-safe bowl according to package directions, stirring every 30 seconds. If using, stir in the coconut oil or shortening for a thinner consistency.
  7. Dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted coating and then gently insert the stick about halfway into a chilled cake ball. This acts as ‘glue.’ Return the pops to the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set the sticks.
  8. Dip each cake ball completely into the melted coating, tilting the bowl as needed. Gently tap the stick against the side of the bowl to allow excess coating to drip off.
  9. Immediately decorate with sprinkles or other toppings before the coating sets.
  10. Place the finished cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or a specialized cake pop stand to dry completely.

Notes

  • For a Starbucks copycat vanilla flavor, ensure you use a good quality vanilla cake mix and vanilla frosting.
  • If your coating is too thick, add a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to thin it slightly for easier dipping.
  • If the cake balls become too soft while dipping, return them to the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
  • You can find more fun ideas on our Pinterest account for party treats on a stick.

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