Step 1: Bake the cake according to package directions in a 9x13 inch pan. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Once cooled, crumble the entire cake into a large bowl. Ensure there are no large chunks remaining. This is a crucial step for a smooth cake pops recipe.
Step 3: Add about 3/4 of the can of cream cheese frosting (or 1 cup of homemade) to the crumbled cake. Mix with your hands until a thick, dough-like consistency is formed. It should be moist enough to hold together when pressed, but not overly sticky. Add more frosting a tablespoon at a time if needed.
Step 4: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch to 1.5-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step is key to consistent sizing for your cake pops recipe.
Step 5: Chill the cake balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or in the freezer for 15 minutes. This helps them firm up and stay on the stick.
Step 6: While the cake balls are chilling, melt the candy melts according to package instructions. This usually involves microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. For the best coating, ensure your melts are fluid but not too hot. Too hot will cause cracks in your cake pops recipe.
Step 7: Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted candy about half an inch, then insert it about halfway into a chilled cake ball. This acts as an edible 'glue' to secure the stick. Repeat for all cake balls.
Step 8: Return the cake pops to the refrigerator for another 10-15 minutes to allow the candy on the stick to set completely.
Step 9: One by one, dip each cake pop into the melted candy, tilting the bowl and rotating the pop to ensure full coverage. Gently tap off any excess coating by lightly tapping the stick against the side of the bowl. This creates that smooth finish for your cake pops recipe.
Step 10: Immediately after dipping, decorate with sprinkles or other desired toppings before the candy coating sets. This is where your creativity shines in this cake pops recipe!
Step 11: Stand the decorated cake pops upright in a styrofoam block or a tall glass to dry completely. This can take about 15-30 minutes, depending on the coating. Once dry, they are ready to enjoy!