# Components:
→ Cake
01 - 1 box vanilla or chocolate cake mix with required ingredients (eggs, oil, water)
→ Frosting
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
04 - 1 tablespoon whole milk
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - Pinch of salt
→ Coating and Decoration
07 - 16 ounces candy melts in two school colors
08 - 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening or coconut oil, optional
09 - Gold sprinkles or edible gold glitter
10 - 24 lollipop sticks
11 - 1 Styrofoam block for drying
# Method:
01 - Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions. Allow to cool completely before proceeding.
02 - Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue beating until mixture reaches smooth and fluffy consistency.
03 - Crumble cooled cake into large bowl. Mix in frosting gradually, 1/2 to 3/4 cup at a time, until mixture holds together without becoming overly wet.
04 - Roll mixture into 24 evenly sized balls, approximately 1 tablespoon each. Place on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or freeze for 30 minutes.
05 - Melt small amount of candy melts. Dip end of each lollipop stick into melted candy, then insert halfway into each cake ball to secure.
06 - Melt candy melts in separate bowls according to package instructions. Stir in vegetable shortening if desired for smoother finish. Dip each cake pop into chosen school color and gently tap off excess coating.
07 - While coating remains wet, apply gold sprinkles or edible gold glitter. Position cake pops upright in Styrofoam block to set completely.
08 - Allow coating to harden completely before serving or packaging. Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week.