Crinkle Cake:
The Ultimate Easy & Delicious Dessert
If you’re craving a cake that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat, look no further than this Crinkle Cake. This dessert is a twist on the classic crinkle cookies, but instead of being a cookie, it’s a soft, moist cake that’s bursting with flavor and topped with a signature crinkled, slightly cracked surface. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal ingredients, and it’s perfect for those who want a homemade cake without all the fuss.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (you can also use chocolate or lemon cake mix for different flavors)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 cup sour cream (for extra moisture and richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (helps the cake rise and gives it structure)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to help it rise)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting the top)
Optional:
- Chocolate chips or chopped nuts (if you want to add extra texture or flavor)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the cake batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, flour, and baking powder.
- Mix with a hand mixer or stand mixer on low speed until just combined (don’t overmix, or the cake may become dense).
3. Pour and spread
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- The batter will be thick, but that’s perfectly normal. It’s what helps form those signature crinkles!
4. Bake the cake
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).
- The top of the cake will start to crack and form the crinkle effect.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Dust with powdered sugar
- Once the cake is cool, sift powdered sugar over the top to create that signature crinkly look.
- You can dust the whole cake or just parts of it, depending on how much sweetness you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Crinkle Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair it with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to balance the sweetness.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for a decadent touch.
Tips for Perfect Crinkle Cake
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, so mix just until combined for a light and airy texture.
- Sour cream is key: It adds moisture and richness to the cake, keeping it tender and soft.
- Customize the flavor: Try using chocolate cake mix for a chocolate crinkle cake or lemon cake mix for a zesty twist.
- Texture variation: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even toffee bits to the batter to make your cake even more special.
- Powdered sugar dusting: For the best effect, sift powdered sugar generously over the cooled cake. It will give it a beautiful, crinkled look and a touch of sweetness.
Why You’ll Love Crinkle Cake
- Super easy: This cake requires minimal ingredients and is a breeze to make.
- Crinkle texture: The unique cracked top makes it visually striking and adds an exciting texture.
- Versatile: You can make this with different cake mixes and toppings to suit your flavor preferences.
- Family favorite: It’s a cake that will get raves from kids and adults alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! You can swap in chocolate, lemon, or even red velvet cake mix for different flavor profiles. The recipe is flexible!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Crinkle cake stays moist for a few days, so feel free to make it a day or two ahead of time. Store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge for extra freshness.
Can I freeze Crinkle Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm treat.
- Freezing: Freeze the cake slices individually, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Customize Your Crinkle Cake!
- Frosting: Top it with cream cheese frosting for a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Toppings: Add fresh berries, a drizzle of lemon glaze, or even a handful of shredded coconut for extra flair.