Nothing is better than homemade dessert. Sometimes you just don't have the time or patience to devote to a more complicated recipe so you reach for that cake mix and it's good but it could be better. Here's a couple of tips I use to fake a homemade dessert using a cake mix
1. Dairy:
Whenever a boxed mix says to add water I usually add milk or half and half, depending on what I have on hand. There's nothing wrong with using water but any dairy product will add extra flavor.
2. Extracts:
I usually use vanilla but almond would also work here. Most homemade desserts call for at least a teaspoon of vanilla extract so adding a splash of it into a boxed mix is another way to add flavor.
3. Extras:
Instead of sticking with a boring plain cake or cookie, make it something special. In the above picture I transformed plain oatmeal cookies into oatmeal chocolate & craisin cookies (which disappeared within two days!).
4. Butter:
No I haven't turned into Paula Dean but have you ever made anything from scratch that called for vegetable oil? I haven't. So for boxed mixes, I'll substitute the same amount of melted butter for the oil. It'll make your cake moist and delicious.
5. Lie:
No one will no it came from a box unless you tell them... I'll keep your secret.
