Hornet’s Nest Cake (with Triple Chocolate Cake Variation)
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Recipe Category: Dessert
Servings: 18
Description:
Prepare to indulge in a delightfully moist and richly flavored dessert with this Hornet’s Nest Cake, which stands out not only for its incredible taste but also for its simplicity. This eggless cake bakes with its own topping, eliminating the need for additional icing. As one of the unique exceptions to my usual preference against cake mixes, this recipe delivers an extraordinary treat that travels well, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Just keep in mind that the preparation and cooling time for the pudding is not included in the total time. For those chocolate lovers out there, the Triple Chocolate variation allows for easy substitutions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vanilla pudding mix | 1 package |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Yellow cake mix | 1 package |
| Butterscotch chips | 1 cup |
| Mixed nuts (optional) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 255.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 4.4 mg |
| Sodium | 296.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 36.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 22.9 g |
| Protein | 3.7 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Pudding: Begin by cooking the vanilla pudding with the specified amount of milk according to the package instructions. Once it is cooked, set it aside and allow it to cool completely.
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Preheat the Oven: While the pudding is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Take a 9x13x2-inch baking pan and spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring that the entire surface is covered to prevent sticking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pudding with the dry yellow cake mix. Stir the mixture until it is well blended, making sure there are no lumps.
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Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for consistent baking.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle the butterscotch chips and mixed nuts evenly over the top of the batter. Feel free to customize this step by using chocolate chips or peanut butter chips, along with your choice of nuts, to enhance the flavor.
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Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Triple Chocolate Variation: For those who desire a deeper chocolate flavor, easily transform this recipe into a Triple Chocolate version by substituting the vanilla pudding mix with chocolate pudding mix. Likewise, replace the yellow cake mix with chocolate or devil’s food cake mix. Use chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips, and feel free to include any nuts you prefer.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan before cutting it into squares for serving. Enjoy this delightful treat as it is, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert!
This Hornet’s Nest Cake is a versatile dessert that is sure to please everyone. Whether you choose to stick with the original vanilla flavors or indulge in the decadent triple chocolate variation, it is a cake that promises to be a hit at any occasion. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful and easy-to-make dessert!
