Ingredients:

  • 1 box of vanilla or chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz / 432 g)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or buttermilk
  • 1 tsp (5 g) pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
  • 2-4 tbsp (30-60 ml) heavy cream or milk
  • 1 tsp (5 g) pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour the cake pan(s) or line with parchment paper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the box mix and granulated sugar (if using).
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
  5. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not over-mix).
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  8. Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, alternating with heavy cream until reaching desired consistency.
  9. Once the cake is completely cool, frost evenly with the prepared frosting.
  10. Slice and serve the cake; enjoy your box mix cake that tastes like bakery!