Yellow cake mix is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be transformed into a wide variety of delicious desserts. Whether you’re short on time, looking for a creative twist, or simply wanting to try something new, yellow cake mix provides a great base for numerous dessert recipes. In this article, we’ll explore various dessert options you can make with a yellow cake mix, from classic cakes to innovative treats that will impress your friends and family.
1. Classic Yellow Cake
The Foundation of Simplicity
The most straightforward dessert you can make with a yellow cake mix is, of course, a classic yellow cake. This cake is known for its rich, buttery flavor and moist texture, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with vanilla or chocolate frosting, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
2. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
A Tropical Delight
Pineapple upside-down cake is a retro classic that never goes out of style. The combination of caramelized pineapple slices and maraschino cherries atop a moist yellow cake is irresistible.
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Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from the can of pineapple slices)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can pineapple slices
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter in a 9×13 inch baking pan in the oven.
- Once melted, remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
- Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar, and place a cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, pineapple juice, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter over the pineapple slices in the pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
3. Cake Mix Cookies
Quick and Easy Treats
Cake mix cookies are a fun and simple way to turn yellow cake mix into delicious cookies. They require minimal ingredients and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins.
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Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, M&M’s, nuts, sprinkles
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil until well blended.
- Stir in your desired mix-ins.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with a glass of milk or pack them for a quick snack.
4. Yellow Cake Mix Crumb Cake
A Coffee Cake Favorite
Transform yellow cake mix into a delectable crumb cake that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the cake batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Serving Suggestions: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.
5. Yellow Cake Mix Cheesecake Bars
A Rich and Creamy Delight
Cheesecake bars made with yellow cake mix are a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake filling and buttery cake crust.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
- 3 eggs, divided
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
SEE ALSO: What Can I Bake with Custard Powder?
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sugar, remaining 2 eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake crust in the pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
6. Lemon Bars with Yellow Cake Mix
A Citrus Twist
Lemon bars are a refreshing and tangy dessert that can be easily made with yellow cake mix.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
- 4 eggs, divided
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 eggs, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned and the center is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Serving Suggestions: Dust with powdered sugar and serve chilled.
7. Yellow Cake Mix Bundt Cake
A Show-Stopping Centerpiece
A Bundt cake made with yellow cake mix can be a beautiful and impressive dessert for any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a Bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil, sour cream, and pudding mix. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serving Suggestions: Drizzle with a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk, or dust with powdered sugar.
8. Yellow Cake Mix Trifle
Layers of Flavor
A trifle is a layered dessert that combines cake, pudding, fruit, and whipped cream. Using yellow cake mix as the base adds a delicious touch to this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh berries or fruit of choice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut into cubes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until thickened.
- In another bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- In a trifle dish or large bowl, layer half of the cake cubes, half of the pudding, half of the fruit, and half of the whipped cream. Repeat the layers.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Garnish with additional fresh fruit or a sprinkle of nuts.
9. Yellow Cake Mix Donuts
A Sweet Breakfast Treat
Transform yellow cake mix into delightful baked donuts that are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a donut pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a large resealable plastic bag and snip off one corner.
- Pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serving Suggestions: Glaze with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk, or dip in melted chocolate and top with sprinkles.
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