Beyond the Box: Delicious Recipes Using Smaller Boxed Cake Mixes
Smaller boxed cake mixes are a pantry staple for many bakers, offering convenience and a consistent base for a variety of desserts. While they’re perfect for a quick and easy cake, their versatility extends far beyond that. This article explores creative and delicious recipes using those smaller boxed cake mixes (typically 9-13 ounces), transforming them into cookies, bars, muffins, and more. We’ll provide detailed instructions, helpful tips, and variations to elevate your baking game and prove that boxed cake mixes are anything but boring.
Why Smaller Boxed Cake Mixes?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s understand why these smaller boxes are so handy. They are ideal for:
* **Smaller Households:** Baking a full-sized cake when you only need a few servings can lead to waste. Smaller mixes are perfect for smaller families or individuals.
* **Quick Desserts:** They significantly reduce prep time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous cravings.
* **Ingredient Cost:** They are often more economical than buying individual ingredients for scratch-made recipes.
* **Base for Experimentation:** They provide a reliable base for trying new flavors and textures without committing to a complex recipe.
* **Portion Control:** Using a smaller box helps in managing portion sizes when compared to larger, richer desserts.
Essential Tips for Baking with Boxed Cake Mixes
Before we begin, consider these crucial tips for consistently successful results:
* **Read the Instructions:** While these recipes deviate from the standard cake directions, always glance at the box for any specific brand recommendations (especially baking temperature, which may need slight adjustments).
* **Measure Accurately:** Although a cake mix is convenient, precise measurements of added ingredients are vital for achieving the desired texture and flavor.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a tough or dense final product. Mix until just combined.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Even with a boxed mix, using good-quality butter, eggs, and extracts will significantly improve the taste.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipes, feel free to add your own touches – different extracts, nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit.
* **Check for Doneness:** Insert a toothpick into the center of your baked goods. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. Baking times can vary depending on your oven.
* **Cool Completely (Sometimes):** Many bar-type recipes benefit from cooling completely in the pan before cutting. Cakes will cool best when removed from the pan after only a few minutes to prevent sticking. For cookies, allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Recipe 1: Cake Mix Cookies
Cake mix cookies are incredibly easy and customizable. This is a great starting point for exploring the versatility of boxed cake mixes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (9-13 ounce) box of cake mix (any flavor)
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 large eggs
* Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, dried fruit
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cake mix until well combined. It might seem crumbly at first, but keep mixing until it forms a dough.
3. **Add Eggs:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition.
4. **Add Optional Mix-Ins:** If desired, gently fold in your favorite mix-ins.
5. **Drop by Spoonfuls:** Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The cookies will still be soft in the center.
7. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Variations:**
* **Chocolate Chip:** Use chocolate cake mix and add 1 cup of chocolate chips.
* **Funfetti:** Use Funfetti cake mix and add extra sprinkles.
* **Lemon:** Use lemon cake mix and add the zest of one lemon.
* **Red Velvet:** Use red velvet cake mix and add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips.
* **Peanut Butter:** Use yellow cake mix and add 1/2 cup of peanut butter chips.
**Tips:**
* For softer cookies, slightly underbake them.
* For chewier cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
* Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
## Recipe 2: Cake Mix Bars
Cake mix bars are a delightful treat that’s easy to customize and perfect for sharing.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (9-13 ounce) box of cake mix (any flavor)
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 2 large eggs
* Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other toppings
* Optional Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until just combined – do not overmix.
3. **Add Optional Mix-ins:** If desired, fold in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other toppings.
4. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. **Cool:** Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
7. **Optional Glaze:** While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars before cutting.
**Variations:**
* **Chocolate Fudge Bars:** Use chocolate cake mix and add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Consider adding a chocolate ganache topping (melted chocolate and heavy cream).
* **Lemon Bars:** Use lemon cake mix and add the zest of one lemon. Top with powdered sugar after cooling.
* **Peanut Butter Bars:** Use yellow cake mix and swirl in 1/2 cup of peanut butter before baking. Top with melted chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt.
* **Coconut Bars:** Use yellow or coconut cake mix and add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter. Consider toasting the coconut flakes before adding for a deeper flavor.
* **Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars:** Use Red Velvet cake mix and prepare a simple cheesecake layer (cream cheese, sugar, egg) to pour over the cake batter before baking.
**Tips:**
* For a fudgier texture, slightly underbake the bars.
* To prevent the bars from sticking, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift them out after baking.
* The glaze can be flavored with different extracts (almond, lemon) or citrus zest to complement the cake mix flavor.
## Recipe 3: Cake Mix Muffins
Cake mix muffins are a quick and easy breakfast or snack option. They are moist, flavorful, and highly customizable.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (9-13 ounce) box of cake mix (any flavor)
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1 cup milk or water
* 2 large eggs
* Optional add-ins: blueberries, chocolate chips, nuts, sprinkles
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, oil, milk or water, and eggs. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. **Add Optional Mix-Ins:** Gently fold in any desired mix-ins.
4. **Fill Muffin Cups:** Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. **Cool:** Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Variations:**
* **Blueberry Muffins:** Use yellow or vanilla cake mix and add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries (toss frozen blueberries with a little flour to prevent them from sinking).
* **Chocolate Chocolate Chip Muffins:** Use chocolate cake mix and add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.
* **Banana Nut Muffins:** Use yellow cake mix, add 1/2 cup mashed banana and 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
* **Spice Muffins:** Use spice cake mix and add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
* **Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins:** Use lemon cake mix and add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds.
**Tips:**
* For taller muffins, let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes before baking.
* To create a domed top, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the first 5 minutes of baking, then reduce it back to 375°F (190°C) for the remaining baking time.
* Muffins are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
## Recipe 4: Cake Mix Cobbler
Cake mix cobbler is a warm and comforting dessert that’s incredibly simple to make. It’s perfect for using up seasonal fruit.
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 cups of your favorite fruit (fresh, frozen, or canned – such as peaches, berries, apples)
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of the fruit)
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch (if using fresh or frozen fruit to thicken juices)
* 1 (9-13 ounce) box of yellow or white cake mix
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup milk
* Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg to sprinkle on top
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare Fruit:** If using fresh fruit, wash, peel, and chop it as needed. If using frozen fruit, no need to thaw. If using canned fruit, drain well. In a bowl, toss the fruit with the sugar and cornstarch (if using fresh or frozen). The amount of sugar needed will depend on how sweet your fruit is to begin with. If it’s a sweet variety, you may not need the full 1/2 cup. Taste and adjust as needed. Cornstarch isn’t absolutely necessary if using canned fruit since the liquid has already been reduced.
3. **Arrange Fruit:** Pour the fruit mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed.
4. **Prepare Cake Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and milk. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Pour Topping:** Pour the cake batter evenly over the fruit mixture. The batter will seem thin, but it will bake up nicely.
6. **Bake:** Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the topping should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. **Cool:** Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
**Variations:**
* **Peach Cobbler:** Use sliced peaches (fresh, frozen, or canned).
* **Berry Cobbler:** Use a mix of berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries).
* **Apple Cobbler:** Use diced apples and add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the fruit mixture.
* **Cherry Cobbler:** Use canned cherry pie filling for an even simpler version (omit the sugar and cornstarch in this case).
**Tips:**
* Adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the fruit.
* For a crispier topping, sprinkle some oats or chopped nuts on top of the batter before baking.
* If the topping is browning too quickly, tent the baking dish with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
## Recipe 5: Cake Mix Coffee Cake
A simple and satisfying coffee cake that’s perfect for brunch or a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (9-13 ounce) box yellow cake mix
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* **Streusel Topping:**
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan. You can also use a round cake pan.
2. **Prepare Streusel Topping:** In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cold butter, cinnamon, and nuts (if using). Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the cake batter.
3. **Prepare Cake Batter:** In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, sour cream, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. **Assemble and Bake:** Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the streusel begins to brown too much before the cake is done, cover loosely with foil.
6. **Cool:** Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows it to set properly and makes it easier to slice.
**Variations:**
* **Add Fruit:** Sprinkle fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples over the batter before adding the streusel topping.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the cake batter for a chocolate chip coffee cake.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter for a lemon-flavored coffee cake.
* **Cream Cheese Swirl:** Prepare a simple cream cheese swirl (cream cheese, sugar, vanilla) and swirl it into the batter before adding the streusel topping.
**Tips:**
* Make sure the butter for the streusel topping is cold for best results. This will create a more crumbly texture.
* If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute plain yogurt or Greek yogurt.
* The coffee cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
## Elevating Your Cake Mix Creations
Beyond simply following the recipes, there are several ways to elevate your cake mix-based desserts and make them even more impressive:
* **Homemade Frosting:** Ditch the canned frosting and whip up a batch of homemade buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or chocolate ganache. The difference in taste and texture is remarkable.
* **Layered Desserts:** Use a cake mix to bake cake layers for a layered cake, adding homemade fillings and frosting for a show-stopping dessert.
* **Cake Pops:** Crumble baked cake mix cake and mix it with frosting to create cake pops. Dip them in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles.
* **Trifles:** Layer cake mix cake with fruit, whipped cream, and custard in a trifle bowl for an elegant and easy dessert.
* **Unique Flavor Combinations:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. Try pairing chocolate cake mix with raspberry jam, or lemon cake mix with blueberry compote.
## Storing Your Baked Goods
Proper storage ensures your cake mix creations stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here are some general guidelines:
* **Cookies:** Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
* **Bars:** Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* **Muffins:** Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze muffins for longer storage (wrap individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag).
* **Cakes:** Store frosted cakes in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting. Store unfrosted cakes at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
* **Cobblers:** Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
## Conclusion
Smaller boxed cake mixes are a fantastic and versatile ingredient for creating a wide range of delicious desserts. By following these recipes, tips, and variations, you can transform a simple box of cake mix into something truly special. So, get creative, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of baking from scratch (with a little help from a box!). Happy Baking!