When you make a cake mix from scratch, the results are usually more moist and flavorful. It also eliminates the need for preservatives and other questionable ingredients that are typically found in boxed cake mixes. 생일케이크
One of the first things to consider when making a homemade cake mix is adding extras like nuts or fruit. However, be careful to avoid overdoing it with this tip.
Ingredients
The ingredients in cake mix are typically flour, sugar, leavening agents (such as baking powder and baking soda) and flavorings. Some mixes also include preservatives and additives to extend the shelf life of the product.
The leavening ingredients in a cake mix help the batter rise and create a light, fluffy texture during baking. They react with water or milk in the batter to produce carbon dioxide gas, which makes the batter expand during baking and results in a tender and airy finished product.
Sugar is a common ingredient in cake mixes because it adds sweetness and helps the cake become moist. It also caramelizes during baking, adding depth of flavor and a golden crust to the finished cake.
Some cake mixes contain vegetable oil to keep the batter moist and encourage a soft, fluffy crumb. They may also contain emulsifiers like soy lecithin to help the fat and liquid components of the batter to mix evenly.
Storage
Store-bought cake mix is formulated to contain preservatives and offers a long shelf life. While a package may expire, it remains safe to use beyond the date printed on the packaging as long as it has been properly stored in a cool, dry place and does not display any signs of spoilage such as mold or an off smell.
The best way to extend the shelf life of cake mix is to keep it in a pantry or other cool, dry area that is free from fluctuating temperatures and high humidity levels that can compromise its integrity. Keeping the mix sealed tightly in its original bag and transferring it to an airtight container or resealable plastic takeout bag will also help to maximize the product’s longevity.
When a mix is frozen, it can last even longer, as the freezing process does not cause any changes to its flavor or texture. However, it is important to note that frozen mixes may not perform as well as freshly-made mixes when thawed, due to the fact that they lack the added moisture of their fresher counterparts.
Variations
Aside from the basic ingredients, cake mixes contain leavening agents such as baking powder and baking soda. These are used to promote a light and fluffy texture in the final baked product.
Oil is another common ingredient found in many cake mixes. This shelf-stable fat helps keep the cake moist, tender, and flavorful. It also encourages a soft crumb, and provides a little extra leavening to the batter.
To make your cake taste a bit less out-of-the-box, try substituting the water called for in the recipe with a flavored liquid. Buttermilk sings in yellow and red velvet cakes, brewed coffee is ideal for chocolate, and soda—like Sprite or 7 Up—makes lemon and strawberry cake taste more refreshing.
If you want to take things a step further, make a homemade frosting from scratch. The addition of a little butter or vegetable oil, as well as a few drops of vanilla, can give your finished dessert a more homemade and special touch.
Flavors
Whether you’re baking a sheet cake, cupcakes or layer cakes, there’s no need to sacrifice flavor. This mix makes a moist, fluffy cake that you and your family will love!
To boost the flavor, add a teaspoon or so of vanilla extract to the mix before baking. You can also use orange, lemon or almond extract.
The baker may wish to substitute the vegetable oil in the recipe for butter. This will lead to a richer taste and a better texture, as butter is much more flavorful than the oil.
In our tests, store brand cake mixes were the whitest, while Pillsbury was lighter. Duncan Hines was the driest of the lot. In the end, we found that adding the right amount of oil and real ingredients is what matters most. For instance, using sour cream can make the difference between a good cake and one that’s too dry. It’s a great trick for home bakers on a budget.