Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop Creamer Recipe

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I’m sharing a simple, homemade Starbucks Cake Pop Creamer recipe that tastes just as dreamy as the store-bought version.

How to make Starbucks Cake Pop Creamer

Starbucks Cake Pop Creamer is a coffee creamer inspired by the flavor profile of the classic Starbucks Cake Pop treats — especially the popular Birthday Cake Pop.

Ingredients

To create that signature Starbucks Cake Pop Creamer flavor, you’ll need the following:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk (or substitute with a non-dairy option like almond, oat, or soy milk)
• 3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (adjust for sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon butter extract (for that rich buttercream flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but it adds a subtle “cake” flavor)
• 1 tablespoon cake batter-flavored mix (choose a powdered cake mix or substitute with white chocolate pudding mix for a similar taste)
• A pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
• Pink food coloring to mimic that fun, festive Starbucks vibe (optional).

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Warm the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. Do not boil—just heat until it’s warm and slightly steamy.

2. Add Flavors: Once the mixture is warm, stir in the vanilla extract, butter extract, and almond extract. These are the key ingredients that create that signature cake pop flavor, so don’t skip them!

3. Incorporate Cake Batter Flavor: Slowly whisk in the cake batter-flavored mix or white chocolate pudding mix. Make sure it dissolves completely to avoid any lumps. If needed, you can strain the mixture to achieve a smooth consistency.

4. Balance Sweetness: Taste-test the mixture! If you prefer a sweeter creamer, add more sugar or some extra sweetened condensed milk. Be sure to adjust to suit your preferences.

5. Cool and Store: Remove the creamer from the heat and let it cool completely. Once cool, transfer it into a clean glass bottle or jar with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully meld.

Tips for Success

• Experiment with Milk Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and almond or oat milk. The coconut cream provides a rich texture while the almond/oat adds a neutral base.
• Blend for Extra Smoothness: If you want your creamer super silky, give it a quick blend using an immersion blender before pouring it into your storage container.
• Make It Festive: For special occasions, add a drop of pink food coloring and even top your coffee with whipped cream and sprinkles to capture the “birthday cake” vibe.
• Extend Shelf Life: Store the creamer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake it well before each use, as some ingredients might settle at the bottom.

Ingredient Substitutes

There are several excellent substitutes you can use to make your homemade Starbucks Cake Pop Creamer just as delicious.

1. Base Ingredients (Milk & Cream)

The base of the creamer typically includes heavy cream and whole milk for that rich and creamy texture, but here are some substitutes:

For Heavy Cream:

• Coconut Cream: A fantastic dairy-free alternative, coconut cream offers a thick, rich consistency similar to heavy cream. It also adds a slight tropical note, which works well in dessert-like creamers.
• Half-and-Half: If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half can be a lighter substitute that still maintains a creamy texture.
• Evaporated Milk: This lower-fat option has a thicker texture than regular milk and adds creaminess without being too heavy.

For Whole Milk:

• Almond Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk for a neutral-flavored, dairy-free option. Almond milk is thinner than whole milk, so you may need to add a little extra thickening agent like cornstarch or tapioca starch if needed.
• Oat Milk: Oat milk is creamier than most plant-based milks, making it one of the best substitutes for whole milk in creamers.
• Soy Milk: Another plant-based option, soy milk works well if you want a thick, creamy texture without using dairy.

2. Sweeteners

The sweeteners in the recipe play a key role in achieving that rich, cake-like flavor. If you need substitutes, here are some great alternatives:

For Sweetened Condensed Milk:

• Coconut Condensed Milk: This is a dairy-free alternative to regular sweetened condensed milk and works just as well, offering the same thickness and sweetness.
• Sweetened Creamer or Non-Dairy Creamer: If you already have a sweetened coffee creamer at home (store-bought), you can substitute this for the condensed milk.
• Maple Syrup or Agave Syrup: These natural sweeteners won’t replicate the exact creamy flavor of sweetened condensed milk but can work in a pinch for a slightly different sweetness.

For Granulated Sugar:

• Honey: Adds a rich, floral sweetness that works well in creamers.
• Coconut Sugar: A natural sugar alternative with a caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with cake-inspired notes.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: For a low-calorie or sugar-free option, use these natural sweeteners. Be sure to use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

3. Flavor Additions

Vanilla, butter, and almond extracts are key to creating that birthday-cake flavor. If you’re out of any of these or need alternatives, here’s what you can try:

For Vanilla Extract:

• Vanilla Bean Paste: This adds a more intense vanilla flavor alongside vanilla specks for a gourmet touch.
• Imitation Vanilla Flavor: While it doesn’t taste as natural as pure vanilla extract, it’s a budget-friendly substitute that will still give you that classic vanilla undertone.

For Butter Extract:

• Melted Unsalted Butter: If you don’t have butter extract, adding a very small amount of melted butter (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) can enhance the buttery flavor without overpowering the creamer.
• Cream Cheese: Though unconventional, a teaspoon of softened cream cheese can give a slight tang and buttery richness that mimics butter flavor. Be sure to blend well to avoid lumps.

For Almond Extract:

• Amaretto Syrup: A splash of Amaretto (or any almond-flavored syrup) can be used instead of almond extract. It complements the vanilla and butter flavors beautifully.
• Skip It: Almond extract is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a more neutral “cake batter” flavor.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this easy recipe, your coffee routine will never be the same! This DIY Starbucks Cake Pop Creamer is perfect for anyone who loves the idea of turning their daily coffee into a mini celebration. 

More Starbucks Recipes:

• Starbucks Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino Recipe
• Homemade Starbucks Frog Cake Pop Recipe