Originally posted on November 22, 2022 @ 11:38 am
Have you ever wondered how to take a simple cake mix to a whole new level of moistness, flavor, and texture? Adding pudding mix to cake mix is a game-changer in the world of baking.
This simple trick enhances the cake’s moisture, gives it a tender crumb, and infuses it with delicious, rich flavor without any complicated steps or exotic ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become your secret weapon for impressively soft, flavorful cakes every time.
The beauty of combining pudding mix with cake mix is that it transforms an ordinary boxed cake into a moist, bakery-quality treat. It’s perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just because you deserve a little indulgence.
Read on to discover why this recipe is so beloved, what you’ll need, and how to create this luscious cake with ease!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic shortcut to elevate your cake game without the fuss of making everything from scratch. The pudding mix adds extra moisture and a velvety texture that keeps the cake fresh longer.
You also get a richer flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with various frostings and fillings.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can use any flavor of pudding mix to customize your cake — think chocolate, vanilla, butterscotch, or even pistachio.
It’s a quick, reliable method to impress your friends and family with minimal effort and maximum yum.
Ingredients
- 1 box of cake mix (15.25 oz, any flavor you prefer)
- 1 small box (3.4 oz) of instant pudding mix (matching or complementary flavor to cake mix)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan(s) with butter or non-stick spray and lightly flour if desired.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, add the entire box of cake mix and the small box of instant pudding mix. Whisk them together to ensure even distribution.
- Add the wet ingredients: Crack in the eggs, pour in the water and vegetable oil into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
- Mix the batter: Using your electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes. This will help build structure and ensure all ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s): Use a spatula to scrape down the sides and spread the batter evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes for a 9×13 pan, or 25-30 minutes for round pans. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
Tips & Variations
“The pudding mix not only adds moisture but also helps the cake stay fresh longer, making it perfect for make-ahead celebrations!”
- Flavor combos: Try chocolate cake mix with chocolate pudding for a double chocolate delight or vanilla cake with butterscotch pudding for a rich, buttery twist.
- Frosting ideas: Pair with cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or a simple vanilla buttercream to complement your cake’s flavor.
- Healthier swaps: Substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter cake that still stays moist.
- Make cupcakes: Use this batter to fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes at the same temperature.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 12 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Serving Suggestions
This pudding mix enhanced cake is delicious on its own or dressed up with your favorite frosting. For a classic presentation, spread a thick layer of fluffy vanilla or chocolate buttercream over the cooled cake.
Add sprinkles or chocolate shavings for extra flair.
For a lighter treat, serve slices with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream. Alternatively, pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
The moistness of the cake also makes it perfect for layering in trifles or as a base for dessert parfaits.
Conclusion
Using pudding mix in cake mix is a simple yet transformative baking hack that yields irresistibly moist and flavorful cakes every time. It requires minimal extra effort but delivers maximum deliciousness, making it ideal for both casual baking and special occasions.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their boxed cake without complicated techniques or additional ingredients.
Experiment with different pudding flavors and frostings to create your own signature cake that friends and family will adore. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever baked without pudding mix!
Happy baking and enjoy the sweet rewards of this easy, foolproof recipe.
📖 Recipe Card: Pudding Mix in Cake Mix Recipe
Description: This easy cake recipe combines instant pudding mix with cake mix for a moist, flavorful dessert. Perfect for quick baking with enhanced texture and taste.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup sour cream for extra moisture
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix and pudding mix.
- Add eggs, oil, water, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Stir in sour cream if using.
- Pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 35g
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