Disaster Cake
A rich, creamy dessert featuring a buttery cake base topped with a sweet cream cheese mixture, perfect for satisfying cravings and serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl with an electric mixer, combine the butter, cake mix, eggs, powdered sugar, and cream cheese, and mix well.
- Spread the mixture on top of the cake in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Place on a rack to cool.
- Cut the cake into small squares and serve from the pan.
- Note: The cake is very rich.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a low-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar. Make sure to mix the ingredients until fully combined to avoid lumps. If you're short on time, you can use a store-bought cake mix for a quicker preparation. This cake pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Disaster Cake in small squares as it is quite rich. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat. Consider adding fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for an extra touch. This cake is also great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Disaster Cake contains roughly 1536 calories, with 6g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 531mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavored cake mixes, such as chocolate or vanilla. Each variation will give the cake a unique taste while still maintaining its rich texture. Just ensure that the flavor complements the cream cheese and butter mixture for the best results.
Why did my cake not rise?
If your cake didn't rise, it could be due to expired baking powder or a mismeasurement of ingredients. Make sure to check the freshness of your baking powder and measure accurately. Additionally, ensure that you're mixing the batter well to incorporate air, which helps with rising during baking.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, adding mix-ins such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of your Disaster Cake. Just fold them into the batter gently before spreading it in the pan. Keep in mind that this may alter the baking time slightly, so check for doneness before removing from the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).