Every February, these adorable, bite-sized delights make their appearance, perfectly capturing the essence of love and celebration. But what if I told you that you don’t have to wait in line or rely on Starbucks to enjoy these sweet little gems? I’ve spent countless hours perfecting a recipe that brings the Starbucks Valentine’s Cake Pop experience straight to your kitchen.
Table of Contents
How to make Starbucks Valentine’s Cake Pop
Starbucks Valentine’s Cake Pop is a seasonal treat offered by Starbucks, typically available around Valentine’s Day. These cake pops are small, bite-sized desserts made from crumbled cake mixed with frosting, shaped into a ball, and then coated in a sweet icing or chocolate.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box of vanilla or red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, like eggs, oil, and water)
- OR you can use your favorite homemade cake recipe
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (about 4 oz) cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
For the Coating:
- 12 oz pink candy melts or white chocolate (dyed pink with food coloring)
- 12 oz red candy melts or white chocolate (dyed red with food coloring)
- Optional: Valentine’s-themed sprinkles, edible glitter, or heart-shaped decorations
Additional Supplies:
- Lollipop sticks (available at craft stores or online)
- Styrofoam block or cake pop stand (to hold the cake pops while they dry)
- Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions (or use your homemade recipe).
- Bake the cake in a 9×13-inch pan and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Crumble the Cake
- Once the cake is cool, crumble it into fine crumbs using your hands or a food processor. The crumbs should be uniform and free of large chunks.
Step 3: Mix with Frosting
- In a large bowl, mix the cake crumbs with the cream cheese frosting. Start with 1/2 cup of frosting and add more if needed. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too sticky.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or your hands. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Chill the Cake Balls
- Refrigerate the cake balls for at least 1-2 hours, or freeze them for 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial to help them hold their shape when dipping.
Step 5: Prepare the Coating
- Melt the pink and red candy melts (or white chocolate) in separate microwave-safe bowls—heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- If using white chocolate, add a few drops of pink or red food coloring to achieve the desired Valentine’s colors.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake Pops
- Take the chilled cake balls out of the fridge. Dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted coating and insert it halfway into a cake ball. This helps secure the stick.
- Dip the cake ball into the melted coating, gently tapping off any excess. You can use a spoon to help coat it evenly.
- Immediately add sprinkles or decorations while the coating is still wet.
- Stick the cake pop into a styrofoam block or cake pop stand to dry. Repeat with the remaining cake balls.
Step 7: Let Them Set
- Allow the cake pops to set completely at room temperature or in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Cake Pops
- Don’t Overdo the Frosting: Too much frosting can make the cake pops too soft and difficult to shape. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Chill, Chill, Chill: Cold cake balls are easier to work with and less likely to fall apart during dipping.
- Smooth Coating: If your coating is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to thin it out.
- Work in Batches: Keep the cake balls in the fridge, only taking out a few at a time to prevent them from getting too soft.
- Get Creative: Use different colors, sprinkles, or even drizzle with contrasting chocolate for a fun, festive look.
What to serve with
Starbucks Valentine’s Cake Pops are undeniably delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right drinks or treats can elevate your experience to a whole new level.
1. Coffee or Espresso Drinks
Nothing complements a sweet treat like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Here are some Starbucks-inspired options:
- Latte: A classic latte, whether hot or iced, pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake pops. Add a dash of vanilla or caramel syrup for extra flavor.
- Cappuccino: The frothy texture of a cappuccino balances the richness of the cake pops.
- Mocha: For chocolate lovers, a mocha latte adds a decadent touch that harmonizes with the cake pops’ flavors.
- Pink Drink: If you’re feeling festive, Starbucks’ Pink Drink (or a homemade version with strawberry açai and coconut milk) is a refreshing and colorful choice.
2. Hot Chocolate
For a cozy and indulgent pairing, serve your cake pops with a mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate. Top it with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flair. You can even add a hint of peppermint or caramel syrup to match the Valentine’s theme.
3. Tea Options
If coffee isn’t your thing, tea is a wonderful alternative. Here are a few ideas:
- Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte complement the sweetness of the cake pops.
- Earl Grey or English Breakfast Tea: These classic teas provide a nice contrast to the rich, sugary cake pops.
- Herbal Teas: For a light and refreshing pairing, opt for fruity or floral teas like raspberry, hibiscus, or rose.
4. Sparkling Beverages
Add a touch of elegance to your Valentine’s celebration with sparkling drinks:
- Sparkling Wine or Champagne: For an adults-only treat, pair your cake pops with a glass of bubbly. The crispness of the wine balances the sweetness of the dessert.
- Sparkling Juice or Lemonade: Non-alcoholic options like sparkling grape juice or pink lemonade are perfect for all ages and add a festive touch.
5. Milk or Milkshakes
For a nostalgic and comforting pairing, serve your cake pops with a cold glass of milk. Or, take it up a notch with a homemade milkshake:
- Vanilla Milkshake: A classic vanilla milkshake is a crowd-pleaser.
- Strawberry Milkshake: The fruity flavor of strawberry complements the Valentine’s theme beautifully.
- Chocolate Milkshake: For a double dose of indulgence, go for a rich chocolate milkshake.
6. Fresh Fruit
Balance the sweetness of the cake pops with a side of fresh fruit. Here are some ideas:
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are a classic Valentine’s treat and pair wonderfully with the cake pops.
- Mixed Berries: A bowl of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries adds a refreshing contrast.
- Fruit Skewers: Create festive fruit skewers with heart-shaped watermelon, pineapple, and grapes.
7. Cheese and Charcuterie Board
If you’re serving cake pops as part of a larger spread, a cheese and charcuterie board is a great addition. Include:
- A variety of cheeses (brie, cheddar, gouda)
- Cured meats (prosciutto, salami)
- Crackers or baguette slices
- Nuts and dried fruits
- Olives or pickles
The savory elements will balance the sweetness of the cake pops and create a well-rounded menu.
8. Other Desserts
If you’re going all out with a dessert table, consider adding these treats:
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: A Valentine’s classic that pairs perfectly with cake pops.
- Mini Cupcakes: Bake a batch of mini vanilla or red velvet cupcakes for a coordinated theme.
- Macarons: These delicate, colorful cookies add a touch of elegance to your spread.
- Cookies: Heart-shaped sugar cookies or chocolate chip cookies are always a hit.
9. Ice Cream or Sorbet
For a fun and indulgent pairing, serve your cake pops with a scoop of ice cream or sorbet:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A timeless choice that complements any dessert.
- Strawberry or Raspberry Sorbet: A fruity, refreshing option that ties into the Valentine’s theme.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: Pair your cake pops with rich chocolate ice cream for a decadent combination.
10. DIY Hot Chocolate Bar
Create a hot chocolate bar where guests can customize their drinks. Provide:
- Hot chocolate base (dark, milk, or white chocolate)
- Toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, and sprinkles
- Flavor syrups (vanilla, caramel, peppermint)
- A side of cake pops for dipping or nibbling
Ingredients substitutes
Making Starbucks Valentine’s Cake Pops at home is a fun and rewarding process, but sometimes you might find yourself missing an ingredient or looking for a healthier or allergy-friendly alternative. Don’t worry—you can use plenty of substitutes to achieve delicious results.
1. Cake Mix Substitutes
If you don’t have a boxed cake mix or prefer to avoid it, here are some alternatives:
- Homemade Cake: Use your favorite vanilla or red velvet cake recipe. A simple vanilla cake can be made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and baking powder.
- Gluten-Free Cake Mix: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix or substitute regular flour with almond flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Egg-Free Cake: For a vegan or egg-free version, replace eggs with applesauce, mashed bananas, or a commercial egg replacer.
- Dairy-Free Cake: Use plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy milk) and vegan butter or oil instead of dairy ingredients.
2. Frosting Substitutes
The frosting binds the cake crumbs together, but if you don’t have cream cheese frosting, try these alternatives:
- Buttercream Frosting: A simple buttercream made with butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk works just as well.
- Dairy-Free Frosting: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter to make a dairy-free frosting.
- Nut Butter: For a healthier twist, use almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter. These add a rich flavor and help bind the cake crumbs.
- Greek Yogurt: Mix cake crumbs with a small amount of Greek yogurt for a lighter option. It adds moisture without being overly sweet.
3. Coating Substitutes
The pink and red candy coating is a signature part of the cake pops, but if you don’t have candy melts, here are some alternatives:
- White Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips or bars, melted and dyed with pink or red food coloring.
- Dark or Milk Chocolate: If you prefer a richer flavor, use dark or milk chocolate for the coating.
- Vegan Chocolate: Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips or bars if you need a vegan option.
- Royal Icing: Dip the cake pops in royal icing for a lighter coating and let them harden.
- Powdered Sugar Glaze: To make a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little milk or water and food coloring.
4. Sprinkles and Decorations Substitutes
If you don’t have Valentine’s-themed sprinkles or decorations, get creative with these ideas:
- Crushed Nuts: Finely chopped pistachios, almonds, or pecans add a nice texture and flavor.
- Shredded Coconut: Mix shredded coconut with a drop of red food coloring for a festive look.
- Edible Glitter or Dust: Add a touch of sparkle with edible glitter or luster dust.
- Dried Fruit: Finely chopped dried cranberries or strawberries can add a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- Chocolate Shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate curls for an elegant touch.
5. Lollipop Stick Substitutes
If you don’t have lollipop sticks, here are some alternatives:
- Paper Straws: Sturdy paper straws can work in a pinch.
- Skewers: Short wooden skewers or even toothpicks can be used for mini cake pops.
- Pretzel Sticks: For a fun twist, use pretzel sticks as both the stick and an edible decoration.
6. Allergy-Friendly Substitutes
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, here are some additional swaps:
- Nut-Free: Avoid nut-based ingredients and use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of nut butter.
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar-free cake mix and frosting, or sweeten your cake with alternatives like stevia or monk fruit.
- Soy-Free: Ensure your chocolate or candy coating is soy-free, or use a homemade glaze instead.
7. Flavor Variations
If you want to experiment with different flavors, try these ideas:
- Chocolate Cake: Use a chocolate cake mix or recipe for a richer flavor.
- Lemon or Orange Zest: Add citrus zest to the cake crumbs for a fresh, tangy twist.
- Spices: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Extracts: Use almond, coconut, or peppermint extract to customize the flavor of your cake pops.
Final Thoughts
Making Starbucks Valentine’s Cake Pops at home is all about creativity and flexibility. With these ingredient substitutes, you can adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs, preferences, or what you have on hand.
More Starbucks Recipes:
- Copycat Starbucks Valentine’s Drink Recipe
- Homemade Starbucks Dubai Donut Recipe
- Starbucks Vegan Spicy Falafel Pocket Recipe
- Copycat Starbucks Spicy Falafel Pocket Recipe

Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box of vanilla or red velvet cake mix
- OR you can use your favorite homemade cake recipe
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (about 4 oz) cream cheese frosting
For the Coating:
- 12 oz pink candy melts or white chocolate
- 12 oz red candy melts or white chocolate
- Optional: Valentine’s-themed sprinkles
Additional Supplies:
- Lollipop sticks
- Styrofoam block or cake pop stand
- Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions (or use your homemade recipe).
- Bake the cake in a 9x13-inch pan and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Crumble the Cake
- Once the cake is cool, crumble it into fine crumbs using your hands or a food processor. The crumbs should be uniform and free of large chunks.
Step 3: Mix with Frosting
- In a large bowl, mix the cake crumbs with the cream cheese frosting. Start with 1/2 cup of frosting and add more if needed. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too sticky.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or your hands. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Chill the Cake Balls
- Refrigerate the cake balls for at least 1-2 hours, or freeze them for 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial to help them hold their shape when dipping.
Step 5: Prepare the Coating
- Melt the pink and red candy melts (or white chocolate) in separate microwave-safe bowls—heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- If using white chocolate, add a few drops of pink or red food coloring to achieve the desired Valentine’s colors.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake Pops
- Take the chilled cake balls out of the fridge. Dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted coating and insert it halfway into a cake ball. This helps secure the stick.
- Dip the cake ball into the melted coating, gently tapping off any excess. You can use a spoon to help coat it evenly.
- Immediately add sprinkles or decorations while the coating is still wet.
- Stick the cake pop into a styrofoam block or cake pop stand to dry. Repeat with the remaining cake balls.
Step 7: Let Them Set
- Allow the cake pops to set completely at room temperature or in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes.