Introduction

Want to transform a simple box cake mix into a moist, flavorful treat that tastes homemade? This easy method adds a few special ingredients to the mix, giving you bakery-quality cake every time without the fuss.

How to Make Box Cake Mix Taste Homemade Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

14.25 ounces white cake mix (or any flavor, 1 box, regular 9×13 size)
3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix (any flavor, 1 box)
4 large eggs
½ cup milk (or coconut milk)
⅓ cup melted butter
½ cup sour cream

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, instant pudding mix, eggs, milk, melted butter, and sour cream. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend until the batter is smooth, well combined, and fluffy.
Step 3: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting or serving to achieve the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt without altering the quantity.
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor depth.
If you prefer a lighter cake, use milk instead of coconut milk and reduce the butter slightly.
Try different pudding flavors like chocolate or butterscotch to match or contrast your cake mix flavor.

Storage

Store the cooled cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep it fresh longer, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw completely at room temperature and reheat slices briefly in the microwave if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, you can use other pan sizes, but baking time will vary. Adjust accordingly and test with a toothpick for doneness.

Why add instant pudding mix to box cake?

Instant pudding mix enhances moisture and richness, making the cake taste homemade with a tender crumb and improved texture.

How to Make Box Cake Mix Taste Homemade Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 76 reviews

This recipe transforms a simple boxed cake mix into a rich, homemade-tasting cake by incorporating instant pudding mix, sour cream, and melted butter. With minimal extra ingredients and effort, you get a moist, flavorful cake perfect for any occasion.

Author: Tara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Mix Ingredients

14.25 ounces white cake mix (1 box, regular 9x13 size, any flavor)
3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix (1 box, any flavor)
4 large eggs
½ cup milk (or coconut milk)
⅓ cup melted butter
½ cup sour cream

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the boxed cake mix, instant pudding mix, eggs, milk, melted butter, and sour cream. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend all ingredients until the batter is smooth, well combined, and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool Before Frosting: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This ensures the cake sets properly and prevents frosting from melting when applied.

Notes

You can use any flavor of boxed cake mix and instant pudding mix to customize the cake flavor.
Using sour cream adds moisture and gives the cake a tender, homemade texture.
Make sure the melted butter is cooled before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.
For dairy-free options, substitute milk and sour cream with coconut milk and dairy-free yogurt respectively.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent frosting from sliding off.

Keywords: box cake mix, homemade cake, instant pudding, easy cake recipe, moist cake, 9×13 cake