Are you craving a deliciously moist and easy cake that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further! This Sock It To Me Cake recipe, using the convenience of Duncan Hines cake mix, is a delightful twist on a classic. It’s a simple, quick dinner idea that's surprisingly impressive, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes and homemade cooking without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Moist Deluxe Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix
- Ingredients listed on the Duncan Hines cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Getting Started: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps them blend together seamlessly, resulting in a smoother, more consistent batter. This is a key tip for achieving the best results when using a cake mix, elevating it from just “okay” to truly delicious.
Making the Cake Batter: A Simple Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release once the cake is baked.
- In a large bowl, combine the Duncan Hines cake mix, buttermilk, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined; don't overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and pecans (if using).
Baking the Cake: Achieving Perfect Moistness
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is slightly different, so keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Preparing the Frosting: A Creamy Delight
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Frosting and Serving: The Finishing Touches
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the cream cheese frosting.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious Sock It To Me Cake!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, in place of pecans.
- If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- This cake is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will vary depending on how you cut the cake. This is an estimate using a 12-serving cake and does not include frosting. Nutritional values will increase significantly when you add the frosting.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
- Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
This easy recipe delivers a homemade cake that tastes far more complex than its simplicity suggests. It’s a fantastic example of how simple ingredients and a few smart techniques can create a truly delicious and satisfying dessert. Enjoy!