Tired of bland box cake? Craving a simple yet incredibly moist and flavorful dessert that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This box cake with sour cream recipe is your answer. It's a game-changer, transforming a humble box mix into a truly delicious homemade treat that's perfect for weeknight baking or special occasions. This recipe offers a quick and easy solution for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing taste or quality. Get ready to elevate your baking game with minimal effort!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) white cake mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting (optional):
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
Making the Cake:
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, sour cream, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes. This is crucial for incorporating air and achieving a lighter texture.
- Gradually add the boiling water while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin; don't worry, that's how it should be! Continue mixing until everything is well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Baking the Cake:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes, as ovens can vary.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
Making the Frosting (optional):
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Frosting and Serving:
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with your delicious sour cream frosting. You can get creative here – use a spatula for a smooth finish or a piping bag for decorative swirls.
- Slice and serve. This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Room temperature ingredients: Using room-temperature eggs and butter (for the frosting) will create a smoother batter and frosting.
- Check for doneness: Always test the cake for doneness with a wooden skewer to avoid overbaking.
Variations to Try:
- Chocolate Cake: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of white cake mix.
- Add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or fresh berries to the batter before baking for extra deliciousness.
- Different Frosting: Experiment with different frostings, like cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
This easy box cake with sour cream recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a few clever techniques can transform a basic dessert into something truly special. It's a quick dinner idea solution for a delightful treat, whether it's a casual weeknight dessert or a celebratory gathering. Enjoy!