Crack Cake Recipe is a dessert so indulgent and flavorful that it’s earned a legendary reputation. This moist and rich bundt cake, often made with white wine and vanilla pudding, has become a favorite at gatherings and parties due to its irresistible texture and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring that you can create the perfect Crack Cake at home.
What Is Crack Cake?
Crack Cake is a bundt cake that gets its name from its addictive nature. Once you’ve had a slice, it’s hard to resist going back for more! The cake is typically made using a combination of boxed cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, and white wine. What makes it truly special is the butter-sugar glaze that’s poured over the cake after baking, soaking into the cake and making it irresistibly moist and flavorful.
There are several theories about how Crack Cake got its name. Some say it’s due to the wine glaze, while others claim that it’s because of how easy and delicious the cake is to make, keeping everyone coming back for more.
Want to dive right into the recipe? You’ll find many variations and tips for baking the best Crack Cake in this article, but for additional ideas, check out this Crack Cake Recipe or Crack Cake Variations.
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all of your ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or any flavor you prefer)
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup white wine (dry white wine works best)
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup white wine
Tools:
- Bundt pan
- Electric mixer
- Cooling rack
- Small saucepan for the glaze
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Silicone spatula
Having the right tools is essential to achieving that perfect, moist bundt cake. Make sure to use a well-greased bundt pan to avoid any sticking issues, and an electric mixer will save you time and effort when mixing your ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crack Cake
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the recipe. Follow these steps to ensure your Crack Cake comes out perfect every time:
Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a bundt pan generously with butter or a non-stick spray. Lightly dust it with flour to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Mix the Cake Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add the eggs, white wine, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the Cake
- Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer the cake to a cooling rack.
Make the Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the sugar and white wine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly, about 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
Glaze the Cake
- Poke small holes all over the cake using a toothpick or skewer.
- Slowly pour the glaze over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and soak into the cake. Make sure to coat the entire surface for a rich, moist texture.
Let the Cake Sit
- For the best flavor, let the cake sit for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the glaze to fully penetrate the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.
Alternative Variations of Crack Cake
One of the best things about Crack Cake is how versatile it is. You can easily modify the recipe to suit different flavor preferences. Here are some variations to try:
1. Chocolate Crack Cake
- Replace the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix.
- Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the batter for an extra chocolatey flavor.
- Swap the white wine for a red wine for a rich and decadent cake.
2. Cinnamon Crack Cake
- Increase the amount of cinnamon to 2 tablespoons for a spicier flavor.
- Add a cinnamon-sugar mixture to the bundt pan before pouring in the batter for a swirl effect.
3. Lemon Crack Cake
- Replace the white wine with lemon juice and zest for a tangy, citrus flavor.
- Use a lemon cake mix and add a lemon glaze for extra zing.
These variations are perfect for experimenting with flavors and textures. If you love trying new things, you might also enjoy this Fried S’mores Bombs Recipe, which offers a fun take on a classic treat.
4. Maple or Caramel Crack Cake
- Swap out the white wine for maple syrup or caramel sauce.
- Top the cake with chopped nuts or caramel drizzle for added texture.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Crack Cake
To ensure your Crack Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can cause the cake to become dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the batter mix evenly, leading to a more uniform bake.
- Let the Cake Rest Overnight: The longer the cake sits, the better it tastes. The glaze continues to seep into the cake, making it even more moist and flavorful.
- Grease the Pan Thoroughly: A well-greased bundt pan is key to ensuring your cake slides out perfectly without sticking.
Storing and Freezing Crack Cake
Storing the Cake:
- Crack Cake can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days, stored in an airtight container.
- If you live in a warmer climate, refrigerate the cake to prevent spoilage. It will stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
Freezing the Cake:
- Crack Cake freezes well. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, let the cake sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
Reheating:
- To reheat slices of Crack Cake, microwave for about 20 seconds, or heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs: Crack Cake Recipe
What is Crack Cake made of?
Crack Cake is made using a combination of yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, white wine, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon. A buttery glaze is poured over the cake after baking to give it its signature moist texture.
Can I substitute the wine in Crack Cake?
Yes, you can substitute the white wine with other liquids such as apple juice, orange juice, or even milk. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the substitute.
How long does Crack Cake stay fresh?
Crack Cake stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Can Crack Cake recipe be made without alcohol?
Absolutely! Simply replace the white wine with a non-alcoholic liquid like fruit juice, milk, or even club soda.
Can I make Crack Cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Crack Cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
For more tips on working with bundt cakes, you might find this Buttermilk Frosting Recipe helpful, especially if you’re thinking of experimenting with different frostings.
Frequently Asked Mistakes and How to Fix Them
1. Dry Cake:
If your cake turns out dry, it’s likely due to overbaking or not enough liquid. Be sure to check the cake early and often while baking, and consider adding extra glaze if needed.
2. Undercooked Cake:
If the center of your cake is undercooked, it could be because your oven temperature is too low or the cake was removed too soon. Always test the cake with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully cooked before removing it from the oven.
3. Cake Sticking to the Pan:
To avoid your cake sticking to the pan, make sure to generously grease the bundt pan and dust it with flour. Allow the cake to cool slightly before attempting to remove it from the pan.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Crack Cake is delicious on its own, but you can also elevate it by serving it with complementary accompaniments:
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Serve with a fresh fruit salad on the side for a lighter option.
- Pair with a glass of the same white wine used in the recipe, or serve it with coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Conclusion: Why Crack Cake Should Be Your Next Dessert
Crack Cake is one of those dessert recipes that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing cake to bring to a gathering or a decadent treat to enjoy at home, this cake checks all the boxes. Its moist, flavorful crumb and buttery glaze make it hard to resist—and with endless variations, you can tailor it to suit any taste. Try the recipe today, and you’ll understand why it’s called Crack Cake!
If you’re in the mood for other exciting desserts, check out Fried S’mores Bombs and more from Tracey’s Recipes. Enjoy your baking adventure!