A Unique Cake Mix Recipe: Combining Jello and Cake for Ultimate Flavor

Are you looking to add a twist to your baking routine? Have you ever considered combining Jello and cake mix to create a cake that is both moist and flavorful? It's actually a technique many home bakers use, and with just a few simple steps, you can create a unique and delicious cake!

Choose Your Flavors

One of the fun parts of combining Jello and cake mix is the endless possibilities when it comes to flavor options. Think about what flavors complement each other. For instance, a lemon cake mix with lemon Jello or a chocolate cake mix with raspberry Jello can create a delightful and memorable taste experience. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match!

Preparing the Cake Mix

To get started, follow the instructions on the cake mix box, but instead of just adding water, mix in the Jello powder. For a standard cake mix, use about 3 ounces of Jello. This will ensure that the Jello integrates well into the cake. Here's a more detailed breakdown of the steps:

Prepare the Cake Mix

Choose your cake mix and Jello flavor. Ensure you have the correct measurements for the Jello, typically 3 ounces. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the Jello powder to dissolve it. Once the Jello is fully dissolved, add it to the dry cake mix ingredients. Follow the remaining instructions on the cake mix box for the rest of the ingredients (oil, eggs, etc.), mixing until everything is well combined.

Baking and Cooling

Once your cake batter is ready, pour it into a greased cake pan and bake according to the cake mix instructions. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving. The Jello will add moisture and unique flavor to the cake, making it even more delightful.

Note: Some recipes may instruct you to add Jello on top of the baked cake. However, the method described above yields a smoother texture and more even distribution of flavor throughout the cake.

Unique Texture and Taste

This technique can result in a moist, flavorful cake with a unique texture. The combination of the soft cake and the firm Jello gives it a fun and interesting bite. My mother used to make these cakes with yellow cake mix and lemon Jello, but you can use any flavor you like. This old classic recipe is a favorite among many, and it's worth trying!

Recipe Example - Triple Orange Cake

Let's explore a more specific recipe to give you a better idea of how to make a Jello and cake mix combination:

Ingredients

1 orange cake mix or lemon if you can't find orange One 15 oz can Mandarin oranges, drained, reserving the liquid 1 cup real mayonnaise 4 eggs 1 3-oz box Orange Jello 1 1/2 cups reserved liquid from Mandarin oranges (add water if necessary) 8 oz carton of thawed Cool Whip 1 3-oz box Instant Vanilla Pudding 1 cup half and half

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°. Pour the cake mix, eggs, mayonnaise, drained Mandarin oranges, and reserved liquid into a mixing bowl and beat together with a mixer. Pour this mixture into a greased and dusted 9x13 pan. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the center is puffed up and solid. While the cake is baking, prepare the Jello mixture. Pour the 3-oz box of Orange Jello into the reserved liquid, adding water if needed, and bring to a boil. Mix until the Jello is completely dissolved. Set aside. Once the cake is done, use a meat fork to poke holes every two inches in the cake. Pour the Jello mixture over the holes. Refrigerate the cake for several hours. For the topping, mix the 3-oz box of Instant Vanilla Pudding with 1 cup of half and half. Refrigerate this mixture for about an hour. Fold in 8 oz of thawed Cool Whip and spread the mixture on top of the cake. Refrigerate again until ready to serve.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to try a strawberry version of the Jello and cake mix cake, simply substitute the orange cake mix for strawberry cake mix. Additionally, use 15 or 16 oz of frozen sliced sweetened strawberries, drain them, and use strawberry Jell-O and the reserved liquid to make a strawberry-flavored Jello and cake combination.

Lastly, consider adding a strawberry instant pudding to the topping for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

So, the next time you want to impress your friends and family with a unique and delicious dessert, give this Jello and cake mix combination a try. The results are sure to be memorable and add a fun twist to your baking habits!