1. Prepare and bake the chocolate cake mix according to the boxed directions. Use the ingredients listed on the back of the box (typically eggs, oil, water).

2. Immediately after taking the cake out of the oven, pour the hot cake into the bowl of a stand mixer. Using the paddle attachment, mix on low speed until a thick, cohesive dough forms that can be easily pressed together into a ball. This takes about 1-2 minutes and replaces traditional frosting.

3. Portion out the cake dough (about 1-1.5 tablespoons per pop) and press firmly into a compact ball in the palm of your hands or using a cake pop press for uniform shapes.

4. Place the formed cake balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and transfer them to the freezer to chill while you prepare the chocolate. Chill for at least 15-20 minutes until firm.

5. Melt the chocolate candy melts according to package directions. You can use a microwave (in 30-second intervals, stirring well) or a double boiler. Ensure it’s smooth and fluid, but not too hot.

6. Once the chocolate is melted, remove the chilled cake balls from the freezer. Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted chocolate (about 1/2 inch deep) and then firmly press the chocolate-dipped stick into the center of each cake ball. This chocolate acts as ‘glue’ to secure the stick.

7. Return the cake pops with sticks inserted to the fridge or freezer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the chocolate ‘glue’ to set completely. This is crucial for preventing the cake pops from falling off the sticks.

8. Once the chocolate ‘glue’ is set, pour the remaining melted chocolate into a tall, skinny jar or glass (this makes dipping easier). Dip each cake pop, one by one, into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Gently tap or shake the cake pop to remove any excess melted chocolate. Rotate as you tap to ensure an even coating.

9. Immediately after dipping and while the chocolate is still wet, add sprinkles or any other desired decorations. Allow the chocolate to set while the cake pop is right side up. You can poke holes into a piece of Styrofoam or a cardboard box to help them stand up straight to dry, if desired. This usually takes 15-30 minutes at room temperature or faster in the fridge.

10. Serve your beautiful cake pops as is, or package them individually in clear bags with ribbons for gifting. Enjoy! Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.