Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease and flour your bundt pan; this prevents sticking later on.
- Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla pudding mix, and cinnamon.
- Add in the wet ingredients: Include the eggs, water, and oil. Beat on medium speed until everything is beautifully blended and smooth.
- Pour it in: Transfer the batter into your prepared bundt pan, evening it out with a spatula.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s ready.
- Cool down: Let the cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- For that added shine: If you’re going for the optional glaze, heat the melted butter, sugar, and water in a saucepan until boiling, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Pour over the cake for extra sweetness.
- Slice and serve: Enjoy your delicious creation!
Best ways to enjoy it
This cake shines on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your dessert experience, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries also provide a beautiful contrast and freshness. It makes for a stunning centerpiece when served on a cake stand, and you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store leftovers, ensure the cake is completely cooled first. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or kept in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to extend its life, you can also freeze slices for up to three months. Just wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Helpful cooking tips
- Room temperature ingredients yield the best results. Make sure your eggs and any refrigerated items are at room temperature before mixing.
- Don’t overmix your batter; this keeps the cake light and fluffy. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so always start checking your cake a few minutes before the minimum baking time.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can swap out the yellow cake mix for chocolate or spice cake for a different flavor profile. Add ins like nuts or chocolate chips also bring an exciting texture. For a fun twist, create a layered cake by halving the baked cake horizontally and adding layers of frosting or fruit filling between. You’ll find that experimenting can yield delicious surprises!
Common questions
What is the prep time?
It takes about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix the batter.
Can I use a different brand of cake mix?
Absolutely! While Duncan Hines is a popular choice, feel free to use your favorite brand.
How do I keep the cake moist?
Make sure not to overbake it, and store it properly as detailed above. Adding a glaze can also enhance moisture and flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it a day in advance. Just store it wrapped at room temperature and glaze closer to serving time.
