Make Box Cake Taste Homemade: Paula Deen’s Recipe

There is nothing like the taste of the homemade cake. It’s moist, flavorful, and simply delicious. However, sometimes it’s just not possible to make a cake from scratch. That’s where box cake comes in. Box cake can be dry and bland, but with a few simple tweaks, it can be just as good as homemade. This recipe from Paula Deen is the best of both worlds – easy and delicious! Try it today and see for yourself how to make box cake taste homemade paula deen.

Box Cake Introduction

Box Cake

A box cake or boxed mix as it’s more commonly referred to can be found in the baking aisle of your local grocery store. A quick look at any of these boxes will reveal that they are mostly made up of simple ingredients like flour and sugar. Sometimes you may find other additions such as eggs, milk powder, and even butter (in some recipes). 

After all of these items have been combined together with an appropriate amount of water then placed into a large oven dish; this mixture will bake quickly by following the instructions on the box.  It is important to note that while most people associate boxed cake mixes with classic desserts like devil’s food cake or yellow birthday cakes many modern-day versions offer alternate flavors such as red velvet, carrot cake, and olive oil lemon poppyseed.

One of the main reasons why people would like to try their hand at baking a boxed cake from scratch is because they are looking for a simple recipe that will not require too many ingredients or complicated techniques.

In fact, Paula Deen’s recipe for Box Cake only calls for five everyday items which most people should already have in their pantry.  Additionally, following a box mix usually leads to a consistently light and fluffy dessert that is much more moister than what you might get if you were to purchase one premade from the store.

The Problem: Box Cake Mix Tastes Artificial

Box cake mixes are a popular choice for people who want to bake cakes quickly and easily. However, one of the most common complaints about box cake mixes is that they taste artificial and lack the homemade taste and feel that many people look for in baked goods.

Box cake mixes often contain a variety of artificial flavors, preservatives, and other ingredients that can affect the taste and texture of the final product. Additionally, the use of oil instead of butter, and the addition of water instead of milk, can lead to a less rich and flavorful cake.

This can be a problem for many people who want to enjoy the taste of homemade cake, but don’t have the time or skills to make a cake from scratch. The artificial taste and texture can be disappointing, especially when compared to the delicious and satisfying taste of a homemade cake.

However, with the right recipe and techniques, it is possible to transform a plain box cake mix into a delicious and homemade-tasting cake. By using Paula Deen’s recipe, you can add extra ingredients and adjust the preparation method to create a cake that tastes like it was made from scratch.

Paula Deen’s recipe for Box Cake

This will work best if you are not interested in making this dessert taste exactly like it was made from scratch but instead, want something that is extremely simple and tastes light and fluffy (just like boxed versions). Always make sure to read through all instructions on how to prepare the batter before proceeding with baking; otherwise, you risk ruining your finished product.

Paula Deen’s recipe for Box Cake

The ingredients needed to make the cake were two boxes of Betty Crocker SuperMoist White Cake Mix, one half cup vegetable oil, three large eggs, and two cups of milk. This is all mixed together with a whisk in one bowl before being poured into another larger greased Pyrex dish (you’ll find this at most grocery stores). It then simply needs to be placed on the middle rack of your oven for about 25 minutes; after which, you will notice that it has fully baked through by using either an instant-read thermometer or inserting a toothpick into the center and pulling out clean.

Once removed from the heat, let cool completely while still inside of the baking pan so it begins to shrink away from any edges.  Once cooled enough where you are able to move without burning yourself; remove gently onto cooling racks until room temperature happens naturally (this can take an additional hour or two).  It is important to know that the pudding-like insides will still be runny upon first being removed from the oven.

Paula Deen’s detailed recipe for Box Cake

Box cake is a popular dessert choice because it is affordable, easy to make, and tastes good. However, many people want to be able to make the box cake taste like it was made from scratch in their own kitchen. Paula Deen’s recipe for Box Cake will show you how! This recipe uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, and the instructions are clear and concise. Best of all, this cake bakes up fluffy and moist – no dry crumbs here! – and can easily be decorated with frosting or icing for a beautiful finish. Give this recipe a try the next time you need a dessert for a party or get-together; your guests will enjoy it very much!

For more delicious recipes to take your cooking skills to the next level, visit our Food Blog.

Ingredients:

  • One 18.25oz box of white cake mix
  • Two cups of water (boiling)
  • Three eggs, beaten

Instructions:

Homemade box cake that tastes so good with Paula Deen’s recipe

Preheat oven to 350F. Using a nonstick spray, grease your pan and set it aside. In a large bowl combine the dry cake mix with the boiling water; you may also use an electric mixer for this step if desired. Mix until evenly moistened – about 30 seconds. Add in three beaten eggs and again beat with mixer or stir by hand until you get a smooth batter. Pour batter into greased/sprayed baking pan Bake at 350F for 25 minutes or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack before frosting! Frost as desired to finish your cake!

  • For a fluffy and professional-looking frosting, use a whipped cream cheese frosting recipe.
  • To make a chocolate ganache frosting, combine one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips with half a cup of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each increment until chips are melted and the mixture is smooth. Let cool slightly before using as desired.
  • And for easy but elegant icing, try my vanilla buttercream recipe! Simply beat together one cup (two sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature with three cups of powdered sugar, two teaspoons of vanilla extract. Then add one tablespoon of milk until light and fluffy. Frost as desired!

Variations and Customizations

One of the great things about using Paula Deen’s recipe to make box cake mix taste homemade is that there are so many ways to customize and personalize the cake to your own tastes. Here are a few ideas for variations and customizations that you can try:

  1. Flavor variations: One simple way to customize your cake is to change up the flavor of the mix. For example, you could try using a chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla, or a lemon cake mix for a tart and refreshing flavor. You can also experiment with adding different flavor extracts, such as almond or peppermint, to enhance the flavor even more.
  2. Mix-ins: Another way to add flavor and texture to your cake is to mix in some additional ingredients. For example, you could add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the batter. You could also add sprinkles or other decorative elements to the top of the cake after frosting it.
  3. Frosting options: The frosting you choose can also have a big impact on the overall flavor and texture of the cake. For a classic homemade taste, you might try making a simple buttercream frosting using butter, powdered sugar, and a little milk or cream. For a more decadent and indulgent cake, you could try a chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting.
  4. Serving suggestions: Finally, consider how you will serve the cake to your guests. You might try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream on top. You could also garnish it with fresh berries or chocolate shavings for a special touch.

Remember, the key to successful customizations is to experiment and have fun with the recipe. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works best for your taste buds. With Paula Deen’s recipe as your starting point, you’re sure to create a delicious and impressive cake that tastes like it was made from scratch.

Tips for Success

While Paula Deen’s recipe for making box cake mix taste homemade is fairly straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to ensure success. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:

  1. Measure ingredients carefully: It’s important to measure your ingredients accurately to ensure that your cake turns out the way you want it to. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups and spoons to measure your ingredients precisely.
  2. Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before you begin baking your cake. This will ensure that your cake bakes evenly and doesn’t overcook or undercook.
  3. Use the right pan: Make sure you use the correct size and type of pan for your cake. If you use a pan that is too small or too large, your cake may not cook properly. Additionally, consider using parchment paper to line the bottom of the pan to ensure that the cake comes out easily.
  4. Mix the batter well: Be sure to mix your cake batter thoroughly to ensure that all of the ingredients are well combined. This will help your cake bake evenly and will prevent any lumps or clumps from forming.
  5. Test for doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if your cake is done. Insert it into the center of the cake – if it comes out clean, the cake is done. If there is still batter on the toothpick, bake the cake for a few more minutes and test again.
  6. Cool the cake completely: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting or serving it. This will prevent the frosting from melting and will help your cake retain its shape.

By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your cake turns out perfectly every time. With a little practice, you’ll be able to customize and experiment with Paula Deen’s recipe to create your own delicious and unique cakes.

How do you add flavor to box cake mix?

There are several ways to add flavor to a box cake mix and make it taste more homemade. Here are some ideas:

  1. Add extracts: Adding a small amount of vanilla or almond extract to the cake mix can give it a richer, more complex flavor.
  2. Substitute milk for water: Instead of using water in the recipe, try using milk. This can add a creamier flavor and texture to the cake.
  3. Add fruit: Adding fresh or frozen fruit, such as blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples, to the cake mix can add a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness.
  4. Mix in spices: Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the cake mix can give it a warm, cozy flavor.
  5. Swap out oils: Instead of using vegetable oil, try using melted butter or coconut oil. This can add a richer flavor to the cake.
  6. Add mix-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other mix-ins to add texture and flavor to the cake.

Remember, when adding flavor to a box cake mix, it’s important to not add too much of any one ingredient as it may change the consistency of the cake. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor for you.

What does adding an extra egg to a box cake mix do?

Adding an extra egg to a box cake mix can help to improve the texture and moisture of the cake. Eggs are a key ingredient in cake baking as they act as a binding agent, helping to hold the cake together. Additionally, eggs can add richness and tenderness to the cake.

By adding an extra egg to the cake mix, you are increasing the amount of protein and fat in the batter. This can help to create a tender, moist crumb and give the cake a richer flavor. The extra egg can also help the cake to rise and create a lighter texture.

However, it’s important to note that adding too many eggs to a cake mix can lead to a dense and heavy cake. It’s recommended to only add one extra egg to the recipe to ensure the best results.

Overall, adding an extra egg to a box cake mix can be a simple and effective way to improve the texture and moisture of the cake.

What is the secret to making a box cake moist?

The secret to making a box cake mix moist is to add additional moisture to the batter. Here are some tips for making a moist cake from a box mix:

  1. Use buttermilk: Instead of using water or regular milk in the recipe, try using buttermilk. Buttermilk is slightly acidic and can react with the leavening agents in the cake mix to create a moist, tender crumb.
  2. Add yogurt: Adding a few tablespoons of plain yogurt to the cake mix can add moisture and richness to the batter.
  3. Use extra eggs: Using an extra egg in the recipe can add richness and moisture to the cake.
  4. Add pudding mix: Adding a small package of instant pudding mix (in a complementary flavor) to the cake mix can add moisture and help the cake stay moist longer.
  5. Reduce baking time: Overbaking can cause the cake to dry out. To ensure a moist cake, be sure to follow the recommended baking time on the box and check for doneness with a toothpick or cake tester.
  6. Keep the cake covered: After baking, be sure to store the cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

By incorporating one or more of these tips, you can transform a box cake mix into a moist and delicious cake.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s recipes are always a hit because she makes even the most difficult dishes seem easy. Whether you’re looking to show your friends that you can cook, or just want to impress them with something other than takeout, this recipe should be perfect for you. The best part is how to make box cake taste homemade as Paula Deen’s but takes less time and effort! Give these instructions a try today and let us know what you think in the comments below! Visit Bourbono for more interesting recipes!

By Luong Tan

Luong Tan, the creative and passionate founder of Bourbono, is a multi-talented individual with a deep love for the culinary arts. An accomplished food blogger, cookbook author, and former Ambassador of US cuisine in Vietnam (2015-2016), Luong has been on a mission to share his appreciation for food with the world.

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