Crack Cake Recipe

Crack cake recipe is a popular cake mix recipe that many home bakers enjoy. It has a soft interior, a sweet outer surface, and a special glaze that creates a moist cake with an unforgettable taste. People often say this cake is as addictive as it sounds, which explains the name. This cake may include white wine to add a subtle depth and keep the texture super moist, but you can also make crack cake without wine if you prefer.

This dessert has become a go-to choice for casual gatherings, family events, or festive occasions. Get ready to explore an easy crack cake recipe that highlights the unique sweetness of the cake and offers an enjoyable treat for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Easy Preparation: You can start with a box of yellow cake mix or even a simple cake mix to keep things straightforward.
• Moist and Delicious: Ingredients such as brown sugar and white wine (or a substitute) help retain the moisture in the cake, giving it a moist and delicious texture.
• Flexible Ingredients: If you want a crack cake without wine, you can replace the wine with white grape juice or another suitable option to balance out the sweetness.
• Distinct Glaze: A simple wine glaze or butter wine syrup can be drizzled on top of the cake or added once the hot cake is out of the oven. This step helps give the cake its signature taste.
• Bundt Pan Specialty: The best crack cake recipe often involves a bundt pan. This shape creates an appealing design and helps the glaze reach every part of the cake.
• Versatile Options: You can try crack cake using red wine, pinot grigio, or even red velvet touches if you want to experiment.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve it warm from the prepared bundt pan, or let the cake cool for a bit to allow the flavors to settle.
• Storage Friendly: Storing this cake in an airtight container will keep it fresh for several days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this cake. First, it offers a moist and delicious texture that feels like crack—figuratively speaking—because you might find yourself reaching for slice after slice. You can customize it to suit your taste: some people enjoy a white wine glaze made with pinot grigio, while others might opt for red wine or even a touch of cooking wine to add a unique twist.

Another standout feature is its simplicity. A box of yellow cake mix can be your secret ingredient here. Even if you’ve never tried baking something like crack cake before, you can still master this process with minimal fuss. The glaze adds to its appeal, helping each slice stay tender, and adding a sweet layer on top of the cake. Once you turn the cake onto a serving plate, it looks beautiful and feels soft from top to bottom.

Plus, if you’re a wine drinker, you have a perfect chance to experiment with flavors like pinot grigio or white grape juice if you don’t want actual wine in your dessert. Whether you want a quick dessert for a gathering or something to enjoy at home, this is a great choice. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to whip up, and you’ll also love how the final result tastes—rich, comforting, and satisfying.

Ingredients for Crack Cake Recipe

Below is a list of cake ingredients you will need. Adjust quantities based on personal preferences, but this is a general guide for a standard bundt cake serving size:

1. Box of Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): This forms the base of your cake batter. A box cake ensures consistency in flavor and texture.
2. Instant Pudding (1 package, vanilla pudding): This helps create a super moist cake. Some bakers use vanilla pudding to add creaminess to the batter.
3. Brown Sugar (½ cup): This adds a rich sweetness. It also boosts the color of the final cake.
4. White Sugar (½ cup): Standard granulated sugar can be used, though some people prefer all brown sugar.
5. Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): A gentle spice that pairs well with the sweet taste.
6. Pinot Grigio or White Wine (½ cup): This part is optional if you prefer a crack cake without wine. You can use wine with white grape juice or another non-alcoholic substitute.
7. Vegetable Oil (½ cup): This keeps the crumb moist and soft.
8. Eggs (4 large): Eggs help bind the mixture together.
9. Water (½ cup): If you want a softer batter, add water. Some people skip it or adjust based on the thickness of the batter.
10. Butter (For Glaze, around ¼ cup): For a simple butter wine syrup or wine glaze.
11. Powdered Sugar (For Glaze, around 1 cup): A key part of making a smooth topping.
12. Pinch of Salt: Balances out the sweetness of the cake.

These ingredients work well together to create the best crack cake recipe. You can also experiment with red wine or white grape juice if you’d rather not use wine in your dessert.

How to Make Crack Cake Recipe

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you make this recipe in a straightforward way. Gather your ingredients, and follow these instructions to create a moist crack cake that your family will enjoy.

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

• Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to about 350°F (177°C).
• Grease Your Pan: Use a non stick spray or a thin layer of oil on the sides of the pan. A bundt pan is preferred because it shapes the crack cake nicely. If you only have a regular cake pan, you can still make the cake in that, though a bundt cake is more traditional.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• Large Bowl Setup: Get a large bowl, and pour in your box of yellow cake mix. Also add instant pudding if you have chosen to use it. Stir in brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon.
• Mix Until Well Combined: You want the dry ingredients to be blended evenly. This helps avoid lumps when you add the liquids.

Step 3: Add Liquid Components

• Hand Mixer or Whisk: If you have a hand mixer, it can save time, but a whisk also works.
• Eggs and Oil: Crack the eggs one by one into the large bowl. Add vegetable oil.
• Wine or Substitute: Pour in your choice of pinot grigio, red wine, or a non-alcoholic substitute like white grape juice. If you prefer no wine, that’s okay too. You can even use cooking wine if that fits your taste, but ensure it’s suitable for desserts.
• Add Water: This helps loosen the batter. Some prefer a thicker mix, so you can reduce the water if you want, but keep at least ¼ cup for moisture.
• Blend Thoroughly: Make sure to mix until well combined. Watch the texture closely. You’re aiming for a smooth batter with no lumps.

Step 4: Pour the Cake Batter into the Prepared Bundt Pan

• Transfer the Batter: Once the batter is smooth, pour the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. This step is key for an even bake. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure you get every drop.
• Eliminate Air Bubbles: Gently tap the bundt pan against the countertop to release any trapped air.

Step 5: Pan and Bake

• Place in the Oven: Slide your prepared pan onto the middle rack.
• Bake Time: Let it bake for around 45-50 minutes. You’ll know the cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. The edges should also pull slightly from the sides of the pan.
• Avoid Overbaking: If you leave it too long, it may lose that moist and delicious texture.

Step 6: Create the Glaze

• Butter Wine Mixture: In a small saucepan, melt about ¼ cup butter. Add ½ cup of white wine (or use wine syrup if you prefer) plus some powdered sugar. If you want less sweetness, reduce the sugar. This glaze can also be made with red wine for a color twist, but many choose white wine.
• Heat Gently: Warm the mixture until it forms a smooth sauce. Stir to prevent burning. This is your wine glaze, which is often said to make crack cake taste like crack because it’s so enticing.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

• Check Doneness: Once your cake comes out of the oven, test with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, move on.
• Glaze While Warm: While the cake is still in the pan, carefully pour some of the glaze over the top of the cake (technically the bottom of the bundt cake if it’s still in the pan). Let it soak for a few minutes.
• Turn the Cake Onto a Serving Plate: After letting the glaze soak in, place a serving plate over the bundt pan and flip. If you greased the sides of the pan well, the whole cake should come out of the pan easily.
• Glaze the Surface: Drizzle any remaining glaze on top of the cake. This method adds extra flavor and helps keep it super moist.

Step 8: Let the Cake Rest

• Cool Slightly: Allow the cake and let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors fully settle.
• Slice and Enjoy: You can slice it warm or cool, depending on your preference. Many people love this cake when it’s still slightly warm.

Serving and Storage Tips

1. Serving Plate Ideas: A simple white serving plate makes your crack cake look extra inviting. If you use a bundt pan, you’ll notice the ridges create a beautiful shape.
2. Storage: Place any leftover slices in an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. The glaze helps keep moisture in the cake, so you may find it tastes even better the next day.
3. Reheating: Pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer warm cake. This trick is helpful if the cake has been in the refrigerator.
4. Transporting: If you bring this dessert to events, wrap it well or keep it in a carrier. The glaze can be sticky, so ensure it doesn’t shift during travel.
5. Freezing: You can freeze leftover pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a couple of hours.

FoodSafety.gov Cold Food Storage Chart: This chart offers detailed guidelines on the recommended storage times for various foods in refrigerators and freezers to maintain safety and quality.

Helpful Notes

• Crack Cake Without Wine: If you want to make crack cake without wine, just substitute the wine with white grape juice or apple juice. This still helps retain moisture in the cake while giving a subtle flavor.
• What Makes a Cake Crack?: Sometimes, cakes crack on top because of uneven heat distribution or overmixing. In this case, the style is intentional, but keep an eye on your bake time if you see deep cracks.
• Old Fashioned Crack Cake Recipe: Some people call it “old fashioned” because they start with a yellow cake mix, add pudding, and include a sweet glaze. This method has been around for years.
• Best Crack Cake Recipe Tip: Use a prepared bundt pan and bake as directed. Don’t skip the glaze if you want the classic flavor.
• Why Is It Called Crack Cake?: The name is informal. It comes from the idea that it’s so tasty, people keep coming back for more, as if it’s addictive.
• Mini Bundt Cakes: If you prefer smaller treats, you can pour the cake batter into the prepared mini bundt cakes molds. Adjust your bake time accordingly. They might only need 20-25 minutes in the oven.
• Chocolate Cake Variation: Although the basic version uses a box of yellow cake mix, some folks try a chocolate cake approach. You could do a chocolate cake mix, skip the cinnamon, and use a chocolate-based glaze for a chocolate crack cake recipe.
• Red Velvet Twist: You can also explore a red velvet cake mix to create a unique red velvet cake approach. This might pair nicely with a simple cream cheese glaze instead of a wine glaze.
• Why Put Coke in Cake?: Some recipes use cola to create extra moisture or sweetness, but for this specific cake, we focus on wine or a replacement to get that texture.
• Wine Drinkers vs. Non-Wine Drinkers: If you’re a wine drinker, this recipe can be a fun way to explore flavors like pinot grigio or pinot noir. If you never made it without trying these wines, you might be surprised how well they work. If you’re not a wine drinker, consider white grape juice as a good substitute.
• Stick to the Pan: To avoid problems when the cake is done, grease your bundt pan well. This is crucial, or else the cake could stick to the pan, damaging its shape.
• Never Tried This Before?: If you’ve never tried crack cake, it’s simple and approachable. This can be your next baking project to impress friends and family.
• Center of the Cake: Always check the center of the cake with a toothpick inserted. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
• Flavor Pairings: The sweetness of the cake pairs nicely with coffee, tea, or any warm beverage. The slight wine flavor can be subtle, but it does help balance out the sweetness.
• Coke in Cake or Wine in Cake?: People like to experiment with soda-based recipes or wine-based recipes. This cake shows that both approaches can create a moist, sweet result, but the wine version has a distinct taste.
• Cake Batter Consistency: Keep an eye on your batter. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water. If it’s too thin, reduce the liquid or add a touch more cake mix if available.

Conclusion

Crack cake recipe is a popular choice among those looking for a sweet, moist treat. It’s a fun option whether you’re hosting a party or just wanting a dessert for the family. The use of yellow cake mix, instant pudding, and a wine glaze (or a substitute) sets it apart from other desserts, giving it a texture that feels tender on each bite. Many enjoy how easy it is to make, starting with a box cake as the base.

You can tweak the recipe to fit your preferences, whether that means using red wine, pinot grigio, or white grape juice. The glaze adds extra flavor and helps keep the cake moist. It’s the best approach if you love a soft, rich dessert that’s simple yet special. If you want to try crack cake variations, consider a chocolate version or a red velvet spin. Serve it warm or cooled, and remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container for best results. Enjoy the comfort of homemade crack cake, and feel free to share your experience with others who might love this cake as much as you do.

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Crack Cake Recipe

Rebecca Blumer

Try our proven crack cake recipe for a moist dessert featuring a sweet, addictive glaze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 Slices

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Box of Yellow Cake Mix 1 box
• Instant Pudding 1 package, vanilla pudding
• Brown Sugar ½ cup
• White Sugar ½ cup
• Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
• Pinot Grigio or White Wine ½ cup
• Vegetable Oil ½ cup
• Eggs 4 large
• Water ½ cup
• Butter For Glaze, around ¼ cup
• Powdered Sugar For Glaze, around 1 cup
• Pinch of Salt

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

• Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to about 350°F (177°C).
• Grease Your Pan: Use a non stick spray or a thin layer of oil on the sides of the pan. A bundt pan is preferred because it shapes the crack cake nicely. If you only have a regular cake pan, you can still make the cake in that, though a bundt cake is more traditional.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• Large Bowl Setup: Get a large bowl, and pour in your box of yellow cake mix. Also add instant pudding if you have chosen to use it. Stir in brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon.
• Mix Until Well Combined: You want the dry ingredients to be blended evenly. This helps avoid lumps when you add the liquids.

Step 3: Add Liquid Components

• Hand Mixer or Whisk: If you have a hand mixer, it can save time, but a whisk also works.
• Eggs and Oil: Crack the eggs one by one into the large bowl. Add vegetable oil.
• Wine or Substitute: Pour in your choice of pinot grigio, red wine, or a non-alcoholic substitute like white grape juice. If you prefer no wine, that’s okay too. You can even use cooking wine if that fits your taste, but ensure it’s suitable for desserts.
• Add Water: This helps loosen the batter. Some prefer a thicker mix, so you can reduce the water if you want, but keep at least ¼ cup for moisture.
• Blend Thoroughly: Make sure to mix until well combined. Watch the texture closely. You’re aiming for a smooth batter with no lumps.

Step 4: Pour the Cake Batter into the Prepared Bundt Pan

• Transfer the Batter: Once the batter is smooth, pour the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. This step is key for an even bake. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure you get every drop.
• Eliminate Air Bubbles: Gently tap the bundt pan against the countertop to release any trapped air.

Step 5: Pan and Bake

• Place in the Oven: Slide your prepared pan onto the middle rack.
• Bake Time: Let it bake for around 45-50 minutes. You’ll know the cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. The edges should also pull slightly from the sides of the pan.
• Avoid Overbaking: If you leave it too long, it may lose that moist and delicious texture.

Step 6: Create the Glaze

• Butter Wine Mixture: In a small saucepan, melt about ¼ cup butter. Add ½ cup of white wine (or use wine syrup if you prefer) plus some powdered sugar. If you want less sweetness, reduce the sugar. This glaze can also be made with red wine for a color twist, but many choose white wine.
• Heat Gently: Warm the mixture until it forms a smooth sauce. Stir to prevent burning. This is your wine glaze, which is often said to make crack cake taste like crack because it’s so enticing.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

• Check Doneness: Once your cake comes out of the oven, test with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, move on.
• Glaze While Warm: While the cake is still in the pan, carefully pour some of the glaze over the top of the cake (technically the bottom of the bundt cake if it’s still in the pan). Let it soak for a few minutes.
• Turn the Cake Onto a Serving Plate: After letting the glaze soak in, place a serving plate over the bundt pan and flip. If you greased the sides of the pan well, the whole cake should come out of the pan easily.
• Glaze the Surface: Drizzle any remaining glaze on top of the cake. This method adds extra flavor and helps keep it super moist.

Step 8: Let the Cake Rest

• Cool Slightly: Allow the cake and let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors fully settle.
• Slice and Enjoy: You can slice it warm or cool, depending on your preference. Many people love this cake when it’s still slightly warm.

Step 9: Tried this Crack Cake Recipe?

• If you make this, I’d love to hear from you! Scroll down to rate this recipe and leave a quick comment. Your feedback helps others and supports my little website—thank you so much! 🙌💛

Video

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 280mg
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 32g
• Protein: 4g

 

Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

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