Introduction
There is nothing more comforting on a cozy evening than a freshly baked cake. However, many people opt for box cake mixes because they consist of simple instructions and ingredients. While it can be convenient to use a boxed cake mix, it often leaves the cake tasting bland and lacking in depth. Luckily, by following these simple tips, you can make your boxed cake mix taste as if it was made from scratch.
Add an Extra Egg
Adding an extra egg is one of the best ways to improve the taste and texture of a box cake. The extra egg will add moisture, richness, and flavor to your cake, resulting in a more tender, delicious dessert.
To incorporate the extra egg, follow the instructions on the box, but add an extra egg to the ingredients. If the recipe on the box calls for two eggs, for example, add three. To ensure the best results, use organic or free-range eggs.
Use Buttermilk Instead of Water
Another way to improve the taste and texture of a box cake mix is to use buttermilk instead of water. The tangy flavor of buttermilk will create a more complex flavor profile, while also increasing the tenderness of the cake.
To substitute buttermilk for water, simply replace the water with an equal amount of buttermilk. If you are unsure about how much buttermilk to use, read the recipe on the box or look up a recipe online. Buttermilk is also an ingredient in some recipes, so check to see if a recipe that calls for it can be used with your box cake mix.
Add Pudding Mix to the Batter
Adding pudding mix to the batter is another way to upgrade your box cake. The pudding will create a denser, more moist cake, while also adding a subtle flavor that complements the boxed cake mix. Vanilla pudding is a great option as it pairs well with most cake flavors, but there are several other flavors worth trying, including chocolate, banana, and butterscotch.
To incorporate pudding mix into the batter, simply mix the boxed cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil or butter, and water or buttermilk according to the instructions on the box. Be sure to whisk the pudding mix and cake mix together thoroughly. Once the ingredients are fully combined, pour the batter into a prepared baking dish and bake according to the instructions on the box.
Swap Out Oil for Butter
Using butter instead of vegetable oil is another great way to enhance the flavor and texture of your boxed cake. Butter provides a richer flavor and increased moistness, which results in a more decadent dessert. It is recommended that you use unsalted butter, as the salt content in salted butter can affect the taste of your cake.
To substitute butter for oil, simply replace the amount of oil called for with the same amount of melted butter. Melt the butter completely before mixing it with the remaining ingredients. Ensure that the butter has cooled before pouring it into the cake mix.
Get Creative With Your Mix-Ins
One of the best things about baking a cake is the ability to add your own personal touch by experimenting with mix-ins. Adding nuts, fruit, or even chocolate chips is a simple way to add extra flavor and texture to your cake. Additionally, it can be helpful to research which mix-ins pair particularly well with specific cake flavors. Consider adding walnuts to a carrot cake or chocolate chips to a pale yellow cake mix.
To add mix-ins to your box cake, follow the instructions on the box, then fold in your mix-ins right before pouring the batter into your cake pan.
Conclusion
By following a few straightforward steps, you can turn a box cake into a delicious, homemade dessert. Adding an extra egg, using buttermilk instead of water, incorporating pudding mix, using butter instead of vegetable oil, and getting creative with your mix-ins are all simple ways to enhance the flavor and texture of your box cake. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite way of upgrading your boxed cake mix into an unbeatable dessert.
