The Origins of Crack Cake
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Crack Cake, often called the most addictive cake you’ll ever eat, is a Southern-inspired bundt cake recipe that has grown in popularity across the United States. Known for its rich buttery glaze and moist texture, this cake is usually made with a yellow cake mix and white wine, which gives it a deep, unique flavor. Unlike traditional sponge cakes, Crack Cake is dense, sweet, and packed with spice, making it perfect for holidays, birthdays, or even casual coffee gatherings. Its nickname comes from how irresistible it is — once you try a slice, it’s almost impossible to stop at one.
Why White Wine Works So Well
One of the secrets to Crack Cake’s unforgettable taste is the addition of white wine. White wine enhances the flavor of the cake without overpowering it, adding a subtle tang and moisture that keeps each bite soft and rich. The alcohol cooks out during baking, leaving behind a sophisticated depth of flavor. Combined with cinnamon, pudding mix, and sugar, the wine transforms this cake into a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. Many bakers recommend using inexpensive white wine for this recipe, proving that you don’t need a pricey bottle to create a gourmet-level cake.
What Makes Crack Cake Special
Unlike many bundt cakes that can turn out dry, Crack Cake guarantees moistness thanks to the perfect balance of oil, eggs, and pudding mix. The buttery sugar-wine glaze poured over the hot cake seeps into every corner, making the crumb melt-in-your-mouth soft. This glaze is what truly sets Crack Cake apart — not only does it give the cake a shiny, luscious finish, but it also locks in flavor, making the cake taste even better the next day. Whether served at family dinners or potlucks, Crack Cake has a reputation for disappearing fast.
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Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix
- 1 box vanilla pudding instant mix
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 4 eggs
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup oil
- 1/2 cup white wine (any kind)
For the Glaze:
- 1 stick butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup white wine
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan generously to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well blended.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add eggs, water, oil, and white wine to the dry mix. Beat with a hand mixer or by hand until smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Make and Add the Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt butter with sugar and white wine, stirring until smooth. Once the cake comes out of the oven, pour the glaze directly over the hot cake in the pan. Allow it to soak in before flipping onto a plate.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 1 hour
- Glaze Prep: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutrition Information (per slice, 12 servings)
- Calories: ~420
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Alcohol: Cooks out during baking, only trace flavor remains
Crack Cake
Q1: Can I make Crack Cake without wine?
Yes! You can substitute the wine with apple juice, white grape juice, or even ginger ale for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q2: Why is it called Crack Cake?
It’s called Crack Cake because of how addictive it tastes. The moist crumb, buttery glaze, and sweet spices make it hard to eat just one slice.
Q3: Can I freeze Crack Cake?
Absolutely. Wrap cooled slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Q4: What type of white wine works best?
Any inexpensive white wine works Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or even cooking wine. Avoid sweet wines since the cake already has plenty of sugar.
Q5: Does Crack Cake taste better the next day?
Yes! The glaze soaks into the cake overnight, making it even moister and richer. Many people say it’s best enjoyed 24 hours after baking.