Strawberry Daisy Cake

The Best Box Cake Mix Hack (From Me, Liz Butts!)

Let’s be honest—boxed cake mix gets a bad rap. But with a few simple upgrades, it can taste just as good (if not better) than scratch. I’ve been decorating cakes for over 20 years, and here’s a little secret: I used to charge thousands of dollars for wedding cakes made with box mix—and I’m not the least bit ashamed to admit it. Why? Because it tasted amazing. That’s what matters.

Here’s my go-to formula for turning any box mix into a total crowd-pleaser:

• Swap water for buttermilk – for a richer, more tender crumb.

• Replace oil with melted butter – flavor level: 10/10.

• Add 1 tablespoon of vanilla, no matter the flavor – always enhances the taste.

My favorite mixes to use:

• Duncan Hines Classic White – super fluffy and perfect for flavor customizing.

• Duncan Hines Devil’s Food – rich, moist, and never fails.

That said, these swaps work with any box mix—including the one featured here! This dreamy spring Lambeth-style cake was made with Pillsbury by the incredibly talented @TheCakeGuyLA, and finished with our Strawberry Sprinkle Mix for the perfect pop of color.

Bottom line: it’s not about whether it came from a box—it’s about how you make it yours.