Step 1: Bake the Cake

• Set your oven to the temperature indicated on the cake mix package, typically 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box. This typically requires combining the cake mix with water, oil, and eggs.
• Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan or a similar-sized pan.
• Bake according to the time specified on the box (usually around 25-30 minutes), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before moving on to the next step. Make sure the cake is fully cooled to prevent the frosting from melting!

Step 2: Crumble the Cake

• After the cake has cooled, crumble it into large pieces using your hands or a fork. This is where you get to unleash some fun and messy creativity!
• Break the cake down into fine crumbs, ensuring there are no big pieces. Aim for a soft, fluffy consistency to make molding easier.

Step 3: Mix with Frosting

• Mix in approximately 1 cup of frosting with the crumbled cake. Start with less and add more if needed. The goal is to achieve a dough-like consistency that will hold together when rolled into balls.
• Thoroughly blend the cake and frosting together using your hands or a spatula until fully incorporated. You want the mixture to be moist, but not too sticky. If it feels too dry, add a bit more frosting.

Step 4: Roll into Balls

• Shape the cake mixture into 1-inch balls by rolling them with your hands. They don’t need to be perfect, but aim for a uniform size to ensure even coating and a consistent bake.
• Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will make it easier to transfer them later.

Step 5: Insert the Lollipop Sticks

• Melt a small amount of your chocolate coating or candy melts (about 1/4 cup) in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, stirring until smooth.
• Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted chocolate, then insert it into the center of each cake ball. This helps secure the stick in place as the cake pops set.
• Place the cake pops in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to firm up and set the stick.

Step 6: Coat the Cake Pops

• Melt the remaining chocolate coating or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth.
• Dip each cake pop into the melted chocolate, making sure the entire ball is coated evenly.
• Lightly tap the stick against the edge of the bowl to shake off any extra chocolate. You want a smooth, even coating—too much chocolate can make the pops too heavy.

Step 7: Decorate (Optional)

• When the chocolate is still soft, decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or any other fun toppings you prefer! This is your chance to get truly creative.
• If you prefer a more polished look, you can also drizzle a contrasting color of chocolate over the pops for added flair.

Step 8: Let Set

• Put the cake pops back onto the parchment paper and allow them to fully set. This can take about 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by placing them in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
• After the chocolate has fully hardened, your cake pops are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tip: If you’re making cake pops ahead of time, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They freeze nicely too, making them perfect for storing longer!