Dessert Recipes

By Taryn Chavez

20 Decadent Cake Recipes with Cake Mixes for Easy Baking

Are you a fan of indulging in rich, moist, and flavorful cakes? Look no further! We’ve got 20 decadent cake recipes that use cake mixes as the base, making baking a breeze. From classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla to unique combinations like strawberry shortcake and caramel pretzel crunch, we’ve got a recipe for every sweet tooth.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of easy baking with cake mixes. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just looking for a quick and delicious dessert solution, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your favorite cake mix and let’s get started on our journey to cake heaven!

Chocolate Lovers Dream Cake with Cake Mix

Chocolate Lovers Dream Cake with Cake Mix
This moist and indulgent cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, made even easier with the help of a store-bought cake mix. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 package (15.25 oz) devil’s food cake mix
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until melted. Allow to cool slightly.
4. Add milk and melted chocolate to the cake mixture. Mix until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour, including cooling time

Lemon Zest Pound Cake with Cake Mix

Lemon Zest Pound Cake with Cake Mix
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and moist pound cake infused with the zesty flavor of lemon.

Ingredients:

– 1 package (15.25 oz) pound cake mix
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cake mix, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Beat in egg until fully incorporated.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Red Velvet Marble Cake with Cake Mix

Red Velvet Marble Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your cake game with this stunning red velvet marble cake made using a cake mix. With its vibrant color and swirly design, it’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup of whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, milk, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour half of the batter into one prepared pan and the remaining half into the other pan.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Drizzle over the batter in the first pan to create the marble effect.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Strawberry Shortcake Delight with Cake Mix

Strawberry Shortcake Delight with Cake Mix
This classic dessert gets a delightful twist with the use of cake mix, making it easy and quick to prepare. Enjoy the sweet combination of strawberry shortcake and moist vanilla cake.

Ingredients:

– 1 package (15.25 oz) white cake mix
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Whipped cream and additional strawberries for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Split cooled cakes in half horizontally. Place bottom halves on serving plates. Top with sliced strawberries, whipped cream, and additional cake halves.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Caramel Pretzel Crunch Cake with Cake Mix

Caramel Pretzel Crunch Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your cake game with this sweet and salty masterpiece! This Caramel Pretzel Crunch Cake is a simple yet impressive dessert that combines the richness of caramel, the crunch of pretzels, and the convenience of a cake mix.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of yellow or white cake mix
– 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup of crushed pretzels
– 1/4 cup of caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix the cake mix, butter, and sugar until well combined. Add milk and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
5. Crush pretzels in a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over one of the cooled cakes, then sprinkle with crushed pretzels.
7. Place the second cake on top and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cake with Cake Mix

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cake with Cake Mix
This moist and delicious cake combines the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate chips, all made easy with a store-bought cake mix. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a special treat for friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, peanut butter, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake with Cake Mix

Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake with Cake Mix
Start your day with a sweet treat that’s as easy as it is delicious! This cinnamon swirl coffee cake uses a cake mix as the foundation, and then adds a layer of gooey cinnamon goodness on top.

Ingredients:

– 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix cake mix, sugar, butter, and cinnamon in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together baking powder, salt, and egg. Spread evenly over the batter.
5. Roll out remaining dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Place on top of coffee cake batter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Funfetti Rainbow Cake with Cake Mix

Funfetti Rainbow Cake with Cake Mix
Brighten up your celebrations with this vibrant and delicious Funfetti Rainbow Cake made easy with a cake mix!

Ingredients:

– 1 package of white funfetti cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, milk, eggs, and rainbow sprinkles. Mix on low speed until just combined.
3. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Once the cakes are cool, you can frost and decorate as desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Coconut Pineapple Upside-Down Cake with Cake Mix

Coconut Pineapple Upside-Down Cake with Cake Mix
Transform a classic cake mix into a tropical masterpiece with the addition of coconut and pineapple. This easy dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet escape.

Ingredients:

– 1 package yellow cake mix
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple rings, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix cake mix, pineapple juice, and melted butter in a large bowl until well combined.
3. Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut and brown sugar.
4. Arrange pineapple rings on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Blueberry Lemon Drizzle Cake with Cake Mix

Blueberry Lemon Drizzle Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your cake game by adding a burst of citrus flavor and sweet-tart blueberries to a simple cake mix. This refreshing dessert is perfect for springtime gatherings or anytime you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of white cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cake mix, blueberries, lemon juice, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before drizzling with your favorite glaze (such as lemon-ginger or powdered sugar).

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Banana Pudding Layer Cake with Cake Mix

Banana Pudding Layer Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your cake game with this decadent Banana Pudding Layer Cake using a cake mix! Layers of moist vanilla cake, creamy banana pudding, and whipped cream come together for an unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients:

– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, heavy whipping cream, and softened butter until smooth.
3. Pour the banana mixture into the prepared cake batter, stirring until combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly among three 8-inch round cake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling. Whisk together milk and vanilla extract; pour over each cooled cake layer.
6. Top with whipped cream, dusting with powdered sugar as desired.

Cooking Time: 60-75 minutes

Spiced Apple Walnut Cake with Cake Mix

Spiced Apple Walnut Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and flavorful Spiced Apple Walnut Cake, made easy with a cake mix! This autumn-inspired treat is perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, butter, eggs, apple, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Oreo Cookie Overload Cake with Cake Mix

Oreo Cookie Overload Cake with Cake Mix
Take your love of Oreos to new heights with this decadent cake that’s packed with crushed cookies and a creamy frosting. This easy recipe uses a box mix as the base, making it a perfect solution for a quick dessert fix.

Ingredients:

– 1 package (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 20-25 cookies)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream or whipped topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
3. Fold in crushed Oreos and pour batter into prepared pans.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with your favorite cream cheese or whipped topping.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Cake Mix

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Cake Mix
Get ready to taste the fall season in every bite of this moist and flavorful Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake made with a cake mix!

Ingredients:

– 1 box pumpkin spice cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, milk, eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with your favorite cream cheese frosting.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (including cooling time)

S’mores Chocolate Fudge Cake with Cake Mix

S’mores Chocolate Fudge Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and decadent S’mores Chocolate Fudge Cake, made easily using a cake mix. The combination of chocolatey goodness, gooey marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers will be a hit with anyone who tries it.

Ingredients:

– 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Sandwich cakes with marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crushed graham crackers.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Almond Vanilla Bean Cake with Cake Mix

Almond Vanilla Bean Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your cake game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of almonds, the creaminess of vanilla, and the subtle sweetness of bean.

Almond Vanilla Bean Cake with Cake Mix

Ingredients:

– 1 box of white or yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon instant coffee powder (or 1/2 teaspoon strong brewed coffee)
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cake mix, almonds, vanilla extract, and coffee powder.
3. Crack in the egg and mix until just combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Raspberry White Chocolate Cake with Cake Mix

Raspberry White Chocolate Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet impressive raspberry white chocolate cake made using a cake mix! This moist and flavorful treat is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to potlucks.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of white cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup of whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of melted white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup of raspberry jam or preserves
– Fresh raspberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, milk, eggs, and melted white chocolate chips. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in raspberry jam or preserves.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tres Leches Coconut Cake with Cake Mix

Tres Leches Coconut Cake with Cake Mix
Elevate your cake game with this easy and moist Tres Leches Coconut Cake made using a cake mix!

Ingredients:

– 1 (15.25 oz) package of white or yellow cake mix
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions. Pour into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk, whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the cake batter in the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Poke holes all over the top of the cake with a skewer or fork.
7. Pour the remaining milk mixture over the top of the cake, allowing it to absorb.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and sprinkle with shredded coconut (if using). Serve and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Birthday Confetti Cheesecake Cake with Cake Mix

Birthday Confetti Cheesecake Cake with Cake Mix
Celebrate a birthday in style with this fun and festive cake that combines the ease of a cake mix with the excitement of a cheesecake. This confetti-filled dessert is sure to delight both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients:

– 1 (15.25 oz) package white cake mix
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confetti sprinkles
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions and pour into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over cake mixture in baking dish.
5. Sprinkle confetti sprinkles on top of cheesecake batter.
6. Drizzle melted butter over sprinkles.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Chai Spiced Honey Cake with Cake Mix

Chai Spiced Honey Cake with Cake Mix
Warm up with a delightful Chai Spiced Honey Cake using cake mix! This sweet treat combines the comforting flavors of chai spices with the natural sweetness of honey, all wrapped up in a moist and tender cake.

Ingredients:

– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup milk
– Eggs, as required by cake mix instructions

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, softened butter, honey, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. Mix until well combined.
3. Add milk and eggs as required by the cake mix instructions. Mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the world of decadent cakes with these easy-to-make recipes using cake mixes! From classic treats like chocolate and vanilla, to fruity twists like strawberry and raspberry, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try your hand at making a Caramel Pretzel Crunch Cake or a Spiced Apple Walnut Cake. Or go all out with a Banana Pudding Layer Cake or a Tres Leches Coconut Cake. With 20 delicious recipes in total, you’ll never run out of ideas to satisfy your cake cravings.

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