A store-bought cake mix is a convenient way to bake a quick dessert at the last minute, but it can often taste dry. Rest assured that you can still rely on a boxed cake mix and, with a few tweaks, create a dessert that tastes homemade. Adding some additional ingredients before baking the cake can enhance its taste and eliminate the dryness often associated with store-bought mixes. A few topping or mix-in ideas can help you prepare an eye-pleasing cake that also tastes delicious.
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Your cake mix likely lists a higher temperature than 325 degrees, but cooking it at a lower temperature for a few extra minutes will help it taste homemade.
Step 2
Prepare your store-bought cake mix in a large bowl according to package directions.
Step 3
Stir in one additional egg and a packet of instant pudding mix of the same flavor as your cake mix. For example, if you are making a chocolate cake, use chocolate pudding or if you are making a white cake, use vanilla pudding. Stir the cake mix to combine.
Step 4
Grease a cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 5
Use a rubber spatula to scrape the cake batter into the pan.
Step 6
Add seven minutes to the baking time listed on the box. Set a timer to remind you when the cake is done.
Step 7
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of your cake. If it comes out clean, take your cake out of the oven and place on a cooling rack. If not, return the cake to the oven for two or three minutes more and then check it again.
Step 8
Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting.
Step 9
Use a small rubber spatula to scrape the frosting into a small mixing bowl.
Step 10
Add the powdered sugar all at one time.
Step 11
Stir to combine and smooth the frosting evenly over all surfaces of the cake.
Tips and Warnings
- If your cake mix calls for milk, try using chocolate milk instead for a richer flavor. Stir in items like chopped nuts or dried fruit to add flavor to the batter. Spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, can also lend a homemade touch to your cake mix. Incorporate 1 to 2 tsp. when you add the additional egg in Step 2. Flavor your cake mix or frosting with extracts, such as peppermint or almond, for a new taste.
- Do not lick the rubber spatula or bowl that you used for raw cake batter. A small taste can be tempting, but the addition of eggs can lead to food-borne illness if consumed before cooking.
Things You'll Need
- 1 store-bought cake mix
- Bowl
- Eggs
- 1 packet of pudding in a coordinating flavor
- 1 canister of frosting
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Toothpick or cake tester
- Cooling rack
- Rubber spatula
References
- "The Cake Mix Doctor"; Anne Byrn; 2003
- "Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade Desserts"; Sandra Lee; 2005
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