Name: Eclipse Cake Pops: Irresistibly Easy Chocolate Delights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 box Betty Crocker™ Delights Super Moist™ Dark Chocolate Cake Mix; 1 cup Water; 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil; 3 large Large Eggs; 1 container Betty Crocker™ Whipped Cream Frosting (Can use homemade as an alternative.); 1 bag White Vanilla-Flavored Candy Melts (High-quality preferred for best results.); 1 bag Dark Chocolate-Flavored Candy Melts (Semi-sweet chocolate chips can be substituted.); 1 cup Decorating Sugar Sprinkles (pink, blue, green, and white) (Edible glitter can be added for extra sparkle.); 12 sticks Lollipop Sticks (Paper sticks provide a sturdier hold.)

“Who knew making dessert could be this rewarding? When I first tried my hand at these Eclipse Cake Pops, a sense of joy filled my kitchen as moist dark chocolate cake blended seamlessly with creamy frosting, all encased in a stunning marbled coating. Not only are these cake pops a visual feast, with colorful sprinkles that grab attention, but they’re also the ultimate crowd-pleaser—perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just that well-deserved sweet indulgence after a long day. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, so even busy home-chefs can impress friends and family without breaking a sweat. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get started!”

Why Make Eclipse Cake Pops?

Effortless Creation: With only a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly formed cake pops that require minimal baking skills.

Rich Chocolate Flavor: Each bite boasts a deep chocolate taste, enhanced by a velvety whipped frosting that binds it all together.

Visually Striking: The marbled chocolate coating coupled with vibrant sprinkles makes these treats attractively festive for any occasion.

Versatile Delight: Easily customize these cake pops by experimenting with different flavors or colors, making them suitable for any celebration.

Quick Treat: Prep and serve in just over an hour, making them a fun snack for family movie nights or surprise gatherings! Don’t miss out on pairing these with my delicious Homemade Strawberry Shortcake for a full dessert spread!

Eclipse Cake Pops Ingredients

For the Cake
• Betty Crocker™ Delights Super Moist™ Dark Chocolate Cake Mix – A rich base that brings deep cocoa flavor, perfect for moist cake pops.
• Water – Hydrates the mix for just the right cake batter consistency.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and tenderness, making each bite delightful.
• Large Eggs – Essential for structure and richness in your cake mixture.

For the Filling
• Betty Crocker™ Whipped Cream Frosting – Binds the crumbled cake into a moldable dough while adding creaminess; can use homemade as a delicious alternative.

For the Coating
• White Vanilla-Flavored Candy Melts – Creates a smooth marbled coating; choose high-quality for the best results.
• Dark Chocolate-Flavored Candy Melts – Adds a dramatic swirl pattern; semi-sweet chocolate chips are a suitable substitute but may need tempering.

For Decoration
• Decorating Sugar Sprinkles (pink, blue, green, and white) – Adds visual appeal and sparkle to your pops; try edible glitter for an extra touch!
• Lollipop Sticks – Necessary for serving; paper sticks provide a sturdier hold than plastic.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eclipse Cake Pops

Step 1: Preheat and Bake the Cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the Betty Crocker™ Delights Super Moist™ Dark Chocolate Cake Mix with water, vegetable oil, and large eggs. Mix on medium speed until fully blended. Pour the batter into a greased 13×9-inch baking pan and bake according to package instructions, typically 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Crumble the Cake
Once the cake is cooled, crumble it into a large mixing bowl using your hands or a fork until it resembles fine crumbs. Add the Betty Crocker™ Whipped Cream Frosting to the crumbled cake and mix thoroughly until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency. This should take about 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and ready to shape into cake pops.

Step 3: Form the Cake Balls
Roll the cake mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands, ensuring they are smooth and even. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to avoid sticking. Once you’ve shaped all the cake pops, freeze them for about 10 minutes. This will help them firm up and maintain their shape during the coating process.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
While the cake balls are chilling, melt the white and dark chocolate-flavored candy melts separately. Place each type of chocolate in microwave-safe bowls, then heat in the microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until completely smooth. Ensure there are no lumps, and the consistency is perfect for dipping.

Step 5: Insert Lollipop Sticks
Remove the cake balls from the freezer. Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted white chocolate and gently insert it into the center of a cake ball, about halfway through. This step ensures the stick stays secured in place when coating. Let the cake pops sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to allow the white chocolate to set slightly.

Step 6: Drizzle and Dip
Once the white chocolate is slightly firm, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the surface of each cake pop without stirring, creating a beautiful marbled effect. Gently dip each cake pop into the marbled chocolate mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Twirl it to remove excess chocolate, allowing the decoration to cling beautifully.

Step 7: Add Sprinkles and Dry
While the coating is still wet, generously sprinkle various colored decorating sugar on half of each cake pop to add a burst of color and festivity. Place the finished cake pops back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to dry at room temperature for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate coating hardens, resulting in beautifully crafted Eclipse Cake Pops ready for serving.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Eclipse Cake Pops ahead of time is a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can easily shape the cake balls up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their moisture. For longer storage, freeze the uncoated cake pops for up to 2 months—just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy these treats, simply coat them in melted chocolate and add sprinkles right before serving. This allows you to have delicious, ready-to-savor Eclipse Cake Pops with minimal effort, making your celebrations even sweeter!

How to Store and Freeze Eclipse Cake Pops

Fridge: Store your Eclipse Cake Pops in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep them fresh. Layer parchment paper between pops to avoid sticking.

Freezer: To freeze, place uncoated cake balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until firm. Once solid, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: If frozen, allow cake pops to thaw in the fridge overnight before coating them in chocolate. This ensures a smooth chocolate finish.

Room Temperature: Completely coated and dried cake pops can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, perfect for quick snacking!

What to Serve with Eclipse Cake Pops

Indulge your taste buds and elevate your dessert experience alongside these stunning treats with delightful pairings that enhance every bite.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A luscious scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate cake, providing a cool and creamy contrast.
Fresh Berries Medley: Mixed strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries create a vibrant, tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake pops. Enjoy a refreshing burst after each decadent bite!
Whipped Cream Delight: A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a dreamy accompaniment, adding an airy texture that pairs perfectly with the fudgy center.
Mochaccino: The rich flavors of a warm mochaccino provide a cozy beverage option, offering a delightful coffee twist that complements the chocolate.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Serve a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping to amplify the chocolate flavor. The extra layer of richness is a chocolate lover’s dream!
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over your cake pops adds a sweet, buttery note that enhances the overall experience. Sweet, gooey goodness awaits!
Peanut Butter Cups: For those who crave a sweet and salty combination, offering miniature peanut butter cups as a side adds a delightful crunch and contrasting flavor—perfect for chocolate enthusiasts.
Mini Cheesecakes: Serve alongside individual cheesecakes to create a varied dessert platter. The creamy tang of the cheesecake balances the richness of the cake pops beautifully.
Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing sparkling lemonade cleanses the palate and adds a fruity zest, making it a perfect match for these treats at any gathering.

Eclipse Cake Pops Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize your Eclipse Cake Pops with these fun and easy variations!

Flavor Boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon of almond or mint extract to the melted white chocolate for a delightful twist.
Colorful Coating: Swap out dark chocolate melts for colorful candy melts to match any theme or occasion.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate melts and a vegan frosting to make these treats suitable for dairy-free diets.
Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, into the cake mixture for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
Fruity Surprise: Mix in finely chopped dried fruits, such as cherries or apricots, into the cake for a fruity flavor explosion.
Frozen Delights: Shape uncoated cake pops and freeze for later! Just coat them with chocolate before serving.
Sprinkle Alternatives: Use edible glitter instead of sugar sprinkles for a shimmering effect, making these cake pops even more festive.
Bite-Sized Treats: For mini versions, roll cake mixture into smaller balls for adorable, bite-sized pops that are easy to enjoy.

Explore all these delicious variations while indulging in these chocolate delights! If you’re looking for more sweet ideas, you might enjoy my scrumptious Homemade Strawberry Shortcake or try your hand at making Tuna Cakes Avocado for a savory twist. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Eclipse Cake Pops

Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool thoroughly before crumbling; otherwise, excess moisture can ruin the texture of your Eclipse Cake Pops.
High-Quality Melts: Use premium candy melts for the coating. They provide a smoother finish and prevent lumps, ensuring a beautiful marbled effect.
Tall Glass Trick: For cleaner dipping, melt the chocolate in a tall glass. This minimizes splatters and makes it easier to dip the cake pops evenly.
Be Patient: Let the coated cake pops dry completely before moving them. This ensures they maintain their gorgeous appearance and prevents smudging.
Mix Colors: Experiment with different candy melt colors for a vibrant presentation. Your cake pops can be customized for any occasion or theme.

Eclipse Cake Pops Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients for Eclipse Cake Pops?
When choosing your ingredients, particularly your dark chocolate cake mix, look for one labeled “moist” or “delights” for the best results. Ensuring the eggs are fresh and the frosting hasn’t been opened for long will also enhance the final product. For the candy melts, pick high-quality options to avoid streaks and achieve that beautiful marbled look.

How should I store my Eclipse Cake Pops, and how long will they last?
Store your Eclipse Cake Pops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to keep them fresh. If you’re stacking them, place parchment paper between the pops to prevent sticking. For longer storage, uncoated cake pops can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw them slowly in the fridge overnight before coating!

Can I freeze baked Eclipse Cake Pops?
Absolutely! To freeze, first shape your cake mixture into balls and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm for about an hour, then transfer the solid cake balls to an airtight container or a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before dipping in your melted chocolate.

What should I do if my chocolate coating does not smooth out when dipping?
If your chocolate is not achieving a smooth consistency, it may not be melted enough. Try reheating the chocolate in the microwave but at lower power (30% power) and in shorter increments (15 seconds), stirring in between until it’s totally melted and silky. If it still looks gritty, adding a small amount of vegetable oil can also help to achieve that glossy finish.

Are these Eclipse Cake Pops safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
While the cake pops themselves use common ingredients, it’s important to remember that chocolate can be toxic to pets. Keep these tasty treats out of reach of your furry friends! Additionally, if anyone has allergies, double-check the label on all packaged products, especially the cake mix and candy melts, to ensure they’re free from allergens like nuts or gluten.