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Perfect Box Mix Cake: Tender Fluffy Crumb Every Time

Transform a simple cake mix into a bakery-style dessert with this foolproof recipe for a tender, fluffy crumb every single time.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course cake box mix recipes, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box 15.25 oz yellow or white cake mix
  • 1 cup whole milk room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round pans with butter and dust with flour.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix and salt. Set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, melted butter, eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed with an electric mixer for 30 seconds, then scrape down the sides.
  • Mix on medium speed for exactly 2 minutes. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s). Tap the pan on the counter twice to release air bubbles.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes (28 minutes is usually perfect), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Notes

1. For a chocolate version, use a chocolate box mix and add 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder to the dry mix.
2. Store unfrosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt to 1/8 teaspoon.
4. For a dairy-free version, use oat milk and vegan butter. The texture will be slightly less tender but still delicious.