Best Mother’s Crack Cake – The Irresistible Bundt Cake Everyone Loves
If you’ve never heard of Crack Cake, get ready to meet your new favorite dessert. This legendary cake got its name because it’s so addictive—you simply can’t stop at just one slice! Soft, moist, perfectly sweet, and loaded with warm cinnamon flavor, this cake is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or even just a cozy weekend at home.
The secret to this cake’s magic is simple pantry ingredients: a boxed yellow cake mix, pudding mix, a touch of cinnamon, and two kinds of sugar. Together, they create the ultimate moist bundt cake with rich flavor and a tender crumb. And if you really want to take it over the top, add the buttery glaze at the end—it soaks into the cake and makes it extra indulgent.
Whether you’re baking for Mother’s Day, a birthday, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this Best Mother’s Crack Cake is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white sugar
1 box vanilla pudding instant mix (3.4 oz)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
4 large eggs
¾ cup water
¾ cup vegetable oil
Optional Glaze (highly recommended):
¼ cup melted butter
½ cup sugar
¼ cup water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan generously to prevent sticking. (A non-stick spray with flour also works well.)
2. Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, brown sugar, white sugar, pudding mix, and cinnamon. Add the eggs, water, and oil, then beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth, creamy, and lump-free.
3. Pour and Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula if needed. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool the Cake
Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
5. (Optional but Recommended) Add the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine melted butter, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Pour the warm glaze slowly over the cake, letting it soak in for maximum flavor and shine.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Slice, serve, and watch this cake disappear—people always go back for seconds!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple finish.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Add fresh berries for a fruity touch.
Serve warm with coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy dessert.
Variations & Tips
Spiced Version: Add nutmeg or pumpkin spice along with the cinnamon for a fall-inspired twist.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding and add chocolate chips.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and pudding mix for a gluten-free option.
Storage: This cake stays moist for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container, or up to a week in the fridge. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Nutrition (per slice, approx.)
Calories: 340 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 16 g
Sugar: 28 g
FAQs
Q: Why is it called Crack Cake?
Because it’s so delicious and addictive that once you start eating it, you can’t stop!
Q: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can try spice cake mix, chocolate cake mix, or even lemon cake mix for a different twist.
Q: Can I skip the glaze?
You can, but the glaze makes the cake extra moist and flavorful. Highly recommended!
Q: How do I keep the cake from sticking to the bundt pan?
Make sure to grease and flour your pan well, or use a non-stick spray with flour. Cooling for 10 minutes before inverting also helps.