Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you ready to experience a dessert that will have you hooked from the first bite? Look no further than the infamous crack cake recipe! This incredibly moist and flavorful cake is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this addictive treat in your own kitchen.
How to Make a Crack Cake Recipe
Ingredients and Directions
Crack Cake Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
servings15
minutes35
minutes450
kcalTo make this irresistible crack cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
1 box of yellow cake mix
1 cup of sour cream
1 cup of vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 cup of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of cinnamon
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the batter in the pan. If desired, add the chopped pecans on top of the brown sugar layer.
- Pour the remaining batter over the brown sugar layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This crack cake is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with a few simple additions:
- Vanilla ice cream: Serve a warm slice of crack cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the cake for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Whipped cream: Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the rich cake.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are well combined.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing them into the batter. This will help create a smooth, even texture.
- Customize the flavor: Feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors or add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chopped nuts to make this recipe your own.
Why You’ll Love This Crack Cake Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers.
- The combination of moist cake, sweet brown sugar, and warm cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- It’s a versatile dessert that can be served at birthdays, potlucks, or as an after-dinner treat.
- The recipe yields a large cake, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start baking! Trust us, once you taste this crack cake recipe, you’ll understand why it’s gained such a loyal following. Happy baking!
Variations on the Classic Crack Cake Recipe
While the classic crack cake recipe is undeniably delicious, there are many ways to put your own spin on this beloved dessert. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity in the kitchen:
- Chocolate Crack Cake: Swap out the yellow cake mix for a chocolate cake mix and add a handful of chocolate chips to the brown sugar layer for an extra dose of chocolatey goodness.
- Fruit-Filled Crack Cake: Sprinkle a layer of your favorite chopped fresh or dried fruit over the brown sugar mixture before adding the top layer of batter. Berries, apples, or even tropical fruits like pineapple or mango would be delicious.
- Spiced Crack Cake: Amp up the warm, cozy flavors by adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture. You could even experiment with pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make crack cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it, covered, at room temperature. It will still taste fantastic the next day. - Can I freeze crack cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake at room temperature before serving. - Can I make crack cake in a different sized pan?
While a 9×13 inch pan is recommended, you can use a different size if needed. Just keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted accordingly.
The History of Crack Cake
Crack cake, also known as “gooey butter cake” or “ooey gooey butter cake,” is believed to have originated in St. Louis, Missouri, in the 1930s. The story goes that a German baker accidentally mixed up the proportions of butter and flour in a coffee cake recipe, resulting in a deliciously dense and gooey texture.
Over time, the recipe evolved and spread throughout the United States, with various regions putting their own spin on the classic dessert. The addition of brown sugar and cinnamon to create the “crack” effect is a more recent innovation, but one that has quickly become a favorite among dessert enthusiasts.
Today, crack cake is enjoyed by people of all ages and is a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the irresistible combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation that results in a truly addictive dessert experience.
Leave a Reply