1-First Step: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Gather all ingredients and tools like a large bowl, cookie scoop, and styrofoam block for drying. This mise en place keeps things smooth for how to make cake pops.

2-Second Step: Combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and water in a bowl. Stir until smooth, about 2 minutes. Pour into pan and bake 25-30 minutes until toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely, 1 hour. This builds the foundation for your homemade cake pops.

3-Third Step: Crumble cooled cake into fine crumbs in a large bowl. Add 1/2 to 3/4 cup frosting. Mix with hands until it forms a dough. Taste and add more frosting if dry. For chocolate cake pops, this step shines.

4-Fourth Step: Scoop 1-tablespoon portions and roll into tight 1-inch balls. Place on parchment-lined tray. Insert sticks halfway into each ball. Chill 30 minutes in fridge to firm up. Use cake pop sticks firmly to avoid breakage.

5-Fifth Step: Microwave candy melts in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Stir in shortening if thick. Dip each pop into melts, tapping off excess. Add sprinkles while wet. Stand in styrofoam to dry, 15 minutes.

6-Final Step: Let dry 1 hour. Serve at room temp or store as below. Pair with coffee for parties. These cake pops recipe easy steps yield perfect results every time.