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–+ servings
A rich, fudgy brownie slice topped with peanut butter frosting, chocolate ganache, and chopped peanut butter cups—a true Box Mix Glow-Up.

Box Mix Glow-Up: Fancy Finishes

Transform a simple box cake mix into a decadent dessert with these easy fancy finishes. Perfect for busy families who want to add a special touch to everyday meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 package chocolate cake mix (regular size)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for batter
  • 1 dash salt
For the Peanut Butter Mixture
  • 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 cans (14 ounces each) sweetened condensed milk
For the Frosting
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
  • confectioners' sugar as needed for spreading consistency
Toppings
  • chopped peanut butter-filled sandwich cookies optional
  • peanut butter cups optional

Equipment

  • 13x9-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a dash of salt to the batter before mixing. Pour the batter into a greased 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake and cool the cake completely as directed on the package.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk until well blended. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes in the cooled cake about 2 inches apart. Slowly pour 2 cups of the peanut butter mixture over the cake, ensuring each hole is filled.
  3. Cover the cake and the remaining peanut butter mixture, and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until the cake is cold.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with the reserved peanut butter mixture. Gradually beat in enough confectioners' sugar until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Spread this frosting evenly over the chilled cake.
  5. Decorate the cake with your desired toppings, such as chopped peanut butter-filled sandwich cookies or peanut butter cups. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 7gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 312mgFiber: 1gSugar: 40g

Notes

This recipe is a great way to elevate a standard cake mix. Feel free to experiment with different extracts or toppings to personalize your creation. For gluten-free families, ensure your chosen cake mix and toppings are certified gluten-free.

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