If there’s a dessert that lives up to its name, it’s Crack Cake. Known for its incredibly moist texture, rich chocolate flavor, and addictively sweet frosting, this cake is aptly nicknamed because one bite often leads to another… and another. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or anytime you crave something decadent, this cake has become a modern favorite in the world of desserts.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (or your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe)
1 small box instant chocolate pudding (1.4 oz / 40 g)
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
For the Frosting:
1 cup (2 sticks / 225 g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch of salt
Optional: chocolate chips or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, instant pudding, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk.
Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend until smooth and fully combined, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed at first, then increasing to medium.
Add milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and spreadable. Add a little more milk if the frosting is too thick.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Optional: sprinkle chocolate chips, mini chocolate chunks, or colorful sprinkles on top for extra fun and texture.
Step 6: Serve
Cut into squares and serve at room temperature. This cake stays moist for several days when stored in an airtight container.
Tips for the Perfect Crack Cake
Use Instant Pudding: This is what gives the cake its signature moist, almost fudgy texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to prevent a dense cake.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and milk at room temperature help the batter blend more smoothly.
Optional Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter to intensify the chocolate flavor, or swirl in caramel or peanut butter before baking for a decadent twist.
Why You’ll Love Crack Cake
Crack Cake lives up to its name because it’s dangerously delicious. The chocolate pudding in the batter makes it exceptionally moist, while the rich, creamy frosting creates a perfect balance of sweetness. It’s simple to make, visually impressive, and guaranteed to disappear quickly—perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages.