This cake is completely inspired by candy corn. But not the regular candy corn, Brach’s Indian Corn.
Have you seen this type of candy corn? With the chocolate on the bottom? I found it to be the perfect cake inspiration! (picture below)
But I went wrong on this cake. I was in a hurry. A BIG hurry. I needed to have this cake done and be out the door in 57 minutes.
So I used all box mixes (which is fine with me!) and canned frosting (horrible mistake).
Something happened. I sampled the canned frosting and thought it tasted like cardboard. Even the chocolate. They were all just awful. I wouldnt feel comfortable serving this cake to anyone. Is it just me? I used to not mind them at all! (To be fair, I stuck to one brand. It could have just been that brand.)
I am a huge proponent of supporting peoples choices in baking… if you want to use canned frosting I would never bat an eye. Heck, I would support and encourage you for choosing to bake!
But for me, I think this was my very last time.
And also, I didnt do a pictorial tutorial frosting the cake because I was planning on doing a video tutorial but then something came up and I didnt. I think I have developed a really, really easy method of this type of graduated layer decorating, and cant wait to share! Seriously, even my kids can do this with great success!
So please be patient with me. That video is on the top of my to-do list, I promise! Well, right after homeschooling. And finishing my book. And laundry. But its up there!
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 containers white frosting (or three cups)
- 1 container chocolate frosting (or 1 cup)
- Optional: Orange extract
Instructions
- Bake chocolate cake in 8in round cake pan. One cake will be used, so you can wrap the other 8in round cake and place in freezer.
- For the white and orange layers, simple prepare white cake batter as you normally would. Divide batter in half and tint one half orange. (Add orange extract if you wish)
- Bake white cake batter in 8in cake pan and bake orange cake batter in 8in cake pan.
- For frosting, take one container of white frosting and tint it orange. I used gel food coloring and about 4-6 drops.
- To assemble cake:
- Place chocolate cake on cake stand. Place thin layer of chocolate frosting.
- Place orange layer on top and cover in thin layer of orange frosting.
- Finally, place white cake on top and cover entire cake in crumb coat.
- Decorate as you wish.
In my instruactions for preparing this cake I ended with, “Decorate as you wish.” Um, lame! But since I cannot possibly leave you hanging completely, I will share this link with you. Sweetapolita has a great video on how she does this style of decorating. Her method (while very different from mine) is flawless perfection. She is a master!
And since I feel so bad for not being organized enough to share my video tutorial with you, I am going to do my best to make sure one of you is as organized as possible! I am giving away the Decorator Preferred Decorating Set from Wilton!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I was in no way compensated for this giveaway. The prize will be sent to the winner directly from Wilton.*About 400 comments were lost due to a glitch. Rest assured, I am pulling the winner from the rafflecopter widget, so if you marked that you commented, you will still be eligible to win! So sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.
Wow! That looks amazing!! I’ve always wanted to learn to do the graduated layers!! And I love the candy corn look!!! Super cute!
Gorgeous! And you’re right. I made cupcakes for my daughter’s 2nd birthday and used a box mix but made homemade buttercream. You just can’t beat it. And it’s easy!
Would you use boxed cake mix? If yes, what is your favorite brand?
I have before and had no problems! I prefer one brand and only use it. The cake has always turned out amazingly moist and has a good taste.
This is so simple, yet elegant. I always love your ideas!
Cake mixes can be a boon when in a hurry. BUT………and a big BUT…………frostings seem to have a just from the can taste. Don’t know why, but from scratch is always better. And really does it take that much time? While the mixer is going, there is always SOMETHING to do in the kitchen!
i use whatever brand boxed cakes i can, but prefer giradelli, but its *so* expensive!
I would use boxed – and the only one that comes out perfect every time is Pillsbury!!
I haven’t used canned frosting in a while, but I really liked the chocolate. I want to make this cake for a Halloween party, so I can’t wait for your tutorial.
Wow, so fun for Halloween! Love your creativity!
You’re right! There is only one brand and type of canned frosting I will use, the rainbow chip icing to go with a box of Funfetti cake! I just love it too much! But I’ve had many many kinds of canned frosting that tasted just horrible!
Yes, I use boxed mixes a lot. All we can get here is good ole “Aunt Betty” (Betty Crocker)….I tend to prefer Duncan Hines…..we can also only get devil’s food cake mix here. Thats it.
I LOVE this cake!! There is a huge fascination here with Candy Corn, as it’s not sold here. Might just have to whip this one up!
Such a cute idea. I am not a big fan of canned frosting either. I prefer homemade buttercream.
Looks great! Adding to Pinterest as soon as I comment
Canned frosting -
I don’t care for it as is BUT, when I’m in a hurry I will use it but only after I’ve doctored it up with icing sugar, vanilla or cocoa powder, depending on what kind I want. I will whip it and get it the texture I want while adding a bit of the above and it really helps. It saves time on the initial softening of butter, creaming butter and sugar etc. In other words, I’ve used it for a base and went from there….if that makes any sense. It helps, in my opinion.
forgot something – when using a box mix, I substitute melted butter for the oil and milk for the water and add an extra egg and that makes a huge difference to my family.
Makes perfect sense!
This is what I always do as well, whipping a it always makes a big difference…*almost* brings it up to the home made level…
I prefer homemade cake, but always keep box on hand if I’m in a hurry or have a cake flop and need it quick. I’ve also had people request box as they like it better. I always make my own frosting though.
My favorite cake mixes are Duncan Hines.
I love using Duncan Hines French Vanilla mix. I use a cake mix recipe for all the cakes I make, and I make a lot!
I do use cake mixes as a base and always doctor them. I do not use store bought frosting, though. Don’t like the taste of it.
I use box mix but my kids don’t like canned frosting. I use homemade buttercream to frost cakes. I use Duncan Hines cake mix usually.
I love Dunkin Hines too! Great looking Cake girl!!
Canned frosting can be really go depending on what brand and and actual flavor it is. I find that Pillsbury cream cheese is the best, plain vanilla sucks from all brands, and the chocolate only tastes good when it’s the fudge flavored not milk.
Great idea for a cake. Can I ask why you thinned down your orange frosting with piping gel?
I just added gel food coloring! For color. It actually didnt thin down at all… I am sorry I worded that so oddly!
I use box mix in a hurry and sometimes I use them as a base to my cakes and then doctor them up. I usually use Pillsbury mixes.
I grew up on boxed cakes, usually Betty Crocker, but never canned frostings.
I haven’t made boxed in years. I just stick with a few basic recipes and it does not seem to take much longer. I love homemade frosting and use it all the time. But a deep dark chocolate canned frosting on a yellow cake- mmmm.
I love cake mix cakes… they are simple and always turn out good.. you can add to them to get a little extra… canned frosting just doesn’t cut it. This cook looks amazing…. I did a pink layered camo cake a couple of weeks ago for my daughter in laws baby shower.. was fun… might give this one a try for Fall
I do use boxed cake mixes (my homemade stuff never rises =( ). I tend to use Pillsbury or Betty Crocker cake mixes. I just use a cup of Greek yogurt and a cup of water instead of oil and eggs. it fluffs up and is super moist and is amazing!
I commented on this post before I saw that there was a giveaway. As for boxed cake mix I pretty don’t have a favorite. But I do however stock up on them when ever they are on sale. Like you I never know when I may need to make a cake in a hurry, and I found a great recipe for making them taste more like homemade.
I would not use a cake mix – I feel people deserve homemade – ……… the pay a price for the cake and the cake should reflect and taste good. Not a fan of cake boxes ………..
you’re absolutely right. i use box cake mix for my cakes, but homemade buttercream. but, at the baking store i frequent, they make their own homemade yummy buttercream so if i’m short on time i have that option.
Oh that is awesome!
I use box cake mixes – typically I “doctor” them up and use Duncan Hines for that process. Most white cakes I’ve had from scratch taste like bisquick – yuck! From scratch chocolate cakes don’t seem to have that problem!
Boxed cake mixes are fine, I use them all the time, adding vanilla, meringue powder, pudding, whatever I want. I am not particular about brand, Pillsbury or HEB (store) work fine for me. Canned icing, however, yuck. We used to use it all the time, but then I started cake decorating, making icing became the norm. Even cream cheese canned tastes chemical-like.
It doesn’t matter how rushed you are or whether or not you use boxed/canned supplies. Remember, we can’t taste it through the computer! No matter how you bake it your end result is always, always creative and gorgeous!
You are so sweet. Thank you!
Only when I’m in a pinch do I use Pillsbury boxed cake mixes, but I always add something extra to it. But NEVER ever do I used canned frosting, i did that this past April, and I couldn’t stand to eat any of the cake because of the yucky taste of the canned frosting.
I hear ya girl!
This cake is absolutely adorable! I’d love a real decorating set. : )
Oops, better answer the question! I use either Duncan Hines or Pillsbury. I usually jazz up box mixes though with a few extras (box of pudding or extra vanilla, etc.). I have tried store brands and a few others, but they’re just not as good.
What a pretty cake and what a great idea! I don’t do canned frosting either. Nothing tastes as good as homemade buttercream!
Pilsbury makes the moistest, softest, fluffiest cakes!
Only if someone requested box cake mix would I use it. My bff loves boxed cake! (:
I switch around brands – mostly Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines it seems. I do scratch often too, but sometimes a boxed mix is just as good
I think the cake looks so lovely!
I have to say, I’m not all that picky about box cakes. Aldi’s brand is pretty decent and cheap!
I do use box mixes on occasion. I don’t follow the box directions to a tee however, I normally add a few things to make a little more “homemade” feeling. I don’t use canned frosting though, I just don’t like the taste at all.
I usually use whatever major brand is on sale (Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, etc). I tried a store brand once and the results weren’t so good, so I learned my lesson there!
Yes I have used boxed mix. I usually buy what’s on sale. Thanks so much for the chance to win!!!
I love Duncin Hines cake mix. I make a majority of my cakes with boxed mixes because they always come out perfect and moist. I spend the time to make homemade filling and icing so I dont feel bad about using a box mix to save time.
I love that this is a little different from the orange and yellow candy corn that we normally see! I used to be ok with canned frosting, but nowadays I think it tastes very chemically. The only flavor I can somewhat tolerate is chocolate. I’d much rather make my own!
I actually use box mixes all the timeout I always doctor them up. I add pudding mix, sour cream, extra eggs and extra oil. They are really good. I don’t prefer one brand over another, but have great results with the Aldi’s brand.
So beautiful… as usual! I agree home-made frosting is always better!
So adorable and the simplicity of this cake will no doubt inspire many mothers to whip on up for their families canned frosting and all. Which baking for someone is always a good thing. I will be frosting mine with homemade frosting too. LOL
I love this cake. I have never tried a multi coloured layer cake before – I am looking forward to trying this!
I have no problem with cake box mixes if they are for a simple white or chocolate cake. Anything more complicated, and it’s just as easy to make from scratch. Frosting….gotta be homemade. Pre-made tastes terrible!!
I do use box mixes but I adjust the ingredients a little. I also use canned frosting in a pinch, but prefer the whipped topping I usually use.
i would, and i don’t have a favorite
I used to use it all the time, and Duncan Hines was always my go to! I’ve gotten away from the boxes now, but if I needed to use one, I would go right back to Duncan Hines!
Yes, and Betty Crocker!
I would use a box…I like Duncan Hines! Love the look of this cake!
I go to an annual ladies only Halloween party that this would be perfect for! Thank you so much for such a great giveaway!
Hey..how I want this giveaway so..bad…
As to the Question , here we get many local varieties of Cake mixes and I prefer the Betty Crocker’s moist chocolate cake mix…coz it is soft , cottony and fluffy
(Nothing wrong with using pre-mixes when you are in a hurry…) Mix it with some vanilla buttercream and You have a (wait for it)…….winner..:D
I love using boxed cake mix, but I doctor mine and add extra ingredients. My favorite to use is Triple Chocolate Fudge by Betty Crocker. I have ‘from scratch’ chocolate cake recipes, but none compare to this one.
I use Duncan Hines cake mix when I’m busy or cheap, but nothing beats the flavor of homemade. I always thought I wasn’t a cake person, until I started making my own from scratch!
Very creative looking cake! I agree – homemade icings do taste better, but I’m not opposed to the store bought kind.
Yes I would…Pillsbury Funfetti Cake Mix is my favorite.
I am all about using cake mixes because of the convenience and a bit of cost-saving (rather than keeping all the individual ingredients on hand). Plus you can still make such unique cake flavors by using the mix as your base and adding in various replacements for the eggs/oil/water components. I even consider it a challenge to myself to bake so that no one can tell it’s a box mix.
however canned frosting – never again. It’s never the right consistency for decorating and is too sweet for my liking. all of that aside, I love this cake! (and can easily be repeated sans canned frosting) – thanks for sharing!
I love this cake. So simple yet elegant. I do not use store bought icing at all anymore. I think it is way too sweet tasting after all the home made recipes I have made. I use a yellow cake mix once in a while for a doctored up banana cake. Other wise, all from scratch.
Love your Blog and pics on facebook.
Have a blessed day!
I like to use basic box cake mixed and add a unique flavoring element, like a white cake mix plus orange extract and some orange powdered jello to get a creamsicle cake. Mid-week? Super fast and minimal mess.
I do use cake mixes, i like to doctor them up. I don’t have a preference, just usually buy the cheapest:)
Despite your unhappiness with the FLAVOR of the canned frosting, the LOOK is TERRIFIC!!
I do use box mixes 90% of the time. I do like to doctor them, though. Sometimes chocolate chips, pudding mixes, candies. But a lot of time just plain. I use Betty Crocker a lot, but I prefer how Duncan Hines bakes flat across the top.
I use them all the time for convenience but I do often doctor them up. I usually buy Duncan Hines.
ALWAYS use a boxed mix. I don’t follow the directions on the box and cake turns out wonderful every time!!! (I use the Wilton recipe) And I have a TON of White cake mixes…because you can do so much with them!! Add textures and flavors to them with ease!!! And honestly, other than store brand, they all work well for me and are more “cost effective” than keeping ingredients on the shelf. Especially if they are on sale! lol…
and I do use home made icing…..but I confess to using canned frosting for things like cake pops and donuts. 
BTW…love this cake!!!
Yum!!! The cake looks amazing, I might have to make that for the hubby’s birthday next month.
I used to LOVE candy corn as a kid…now I eat it and I think…what was I thinking?!?…:P
I do use box mixes but I’m not really brand loyal. I tend to doctor them up sometimes too. I know they will taste good so I spend more time and energy in the decorating. ;D
Angie
Would you use boxed cake mix? If yes, what is your favorite brand?
I would use my own recipe and make the cake from scratch!
Pillsbury Funfetti cake mix is the go-to cake mix at our house. Everyone loves it!!
I like Duncan Hines – and a lot of the people I bake for often prefer it when I use a mix (much to my dismay!)
I don’t mind using boxed cake mixes but I agree that store bought frosting is awful, and it doesn’t spread as wl as homemade frosting…..
My dad would love this… he loves orange/chocolate and pretty much anything to do with Halloween. Thanks for the giveaway – I look forward to the decorating tutorial!
That cake is so fun! I will definitely be trying it!
I am not afraid of using cake mix! Duncan Hines is definitely the best brand! Always moist!
I can’t say that I have used box cake mixes. I have a few recipes in my box that are so simple and delicious every time, it’s silly to use a box mix. But…. to each their own!
Fun cake!
I use Aldi brand because it’s cheap and good!
While I do use box mixes, there is nothing like a cake made from scratch. Regardless, I MUST make my own frosting. I cannot stand the grocery store types!
yes, I use cake mixes for my cake pops. I find that to have consistent results I need to stick with a mix. When it comes to cake pops, I’m not too picky. They all get smooched up anyway
I do sometimes! And when I do, it’s always Duncan Hines.
Out of curiosity, have you ever tried whipping store-bought frosting? I saw the idea on Pinterest (to make the frosting go further since it’s usually really thick), but was wondering if it would taste better this way, as well.
I use boxed cake mix every once in a while, but honestly, I feel like I’m cheating when I do!
Use box cake mixes with added ingredients when I have to but love homemade buttercream icing!
As far as box mixes are concerned, I haven’t made one in a while so I don’t have a favorite, but I think they’re great! Super convenient and easy for kids. Nevertheless, I still prefer making them from scratch.
I prefer cake baking from scratch, but boxed mixes are still great! I love Duncan Hines Dark chocolate, and I’m still trying to get my vanilla one as good as a box!
Yeah ready made frosting for me tastes like hospital medicine. But your cake is awesome!
you are seriously too good! i’m so excited to try out this frosting technique! no pressure!
and homemade definitely trumps store bought, but let’s be honest, i don’t turn down sugar…! Hahaha
I can’t wait to learn how to frost ombre style!
I love the cake and may have to do a traditional candy corn one (my FIL can’t eat chocolate). I do use box mixes and I generally tend to prefer the ones with pudding in the mix . . . and chocolate
I use cake mix often, but I haven’t used canned frosting in years. So long, in fact, that I’m not qualified to weigh in on this one.
The cake sure looks terrific though! I’ll be excited to see the frosting tutorial!!
Nothing wrong with boxed cake mixes. No brand loyalty here.
I do not use boxed mixes. Mostly because I find putting together a cake from scratch takes only a few more minutes of my time and the taste is definitely worth it. I’m not a huge fan of vegetable oil in cakes (give me butter!) so boxed mixes don’t really taste great to me.
This looks so yummy and I love colors flow right into the next without any seams or spaces!!!
Carsedra of:
http://sweets4yourtooth.blogspot.com
I have used them, but I really don’t like to anymore. The last time I did I regretted it. Just have to leave myself enough time to bake instead.
My husband LOVES box mixes for some reason so I make them for him! If I’m making a cake for anyone else I make it from scratch!
I’m still a huge fan of boxed cake mix, but you’re right about frosting. Pillsbury never fails me, though!
I use boxed mixes in a pinch, but love to add a little something to give them some extra oomph, maybe a shot of flavoring. I’m a Duncan Hines kind of girl when I need to be, their mixes are so moist!
I only use Dunkin Hines. For some reason, the others have too much of a chemical taste for me. Definitely prefer making my own frosting though. Can’t stomach the canned stuff.
I love this cake! I really want to bake something with candy corn or something candy-corn-inspired, but I’m not sure what yet.
As for boxed cake mixes and frostings, I use boxed mixes sometimes when I know I’m not going to have much time. I kind of don’t like canned frosting, though. I think it might be the consistency or something. It doesn’t hold up well when you pipe with it either. I read somewhere that if you whip it or beat it with a mixer for a few minutes it gets lighter and fluffier. I tried that recently and it was better, but I still prefer homemade frosting.
I am a scratch girl, always have been. Don’t be so hard on yourself, this was a great post!!!! I plan to make it real soon.
I’m totally lazy, and often you premade cake mixes, but I’ve been trying to break that habit. I usually go for Duncan Hines. Thanks so much for the giveaway!
I don’t use canned anymore because I’m trying to stay away from high fructose corn syrup. I don’t bake as often as I used to though because our roommate’s oven is old and difficult to use.
I almost always use boxed mixes. Betty Crocker Golden Vanilla is heaven in a box ~ the perfect wedding cake flavor that has become my most requested flavor for all occasions. For chocolate I always use Betty’s Chocolate Fudge flavor ~ yum! I do make my own frosting though!
I agree with you- I used to be OK with the canned frosting, but now that I make my own, I can’t stand them! So, I won’t use canned frosting, but I do use box mixes- I just doctor them up a lot. They’re a good starting point =) I usually use Betty Crocker. Not really sure why, just what I do.
Nope, no more boxed cake mixes. They don’t taste real.
Cakebox mix of choice is both Pillsbury & Duncan Hines (different flavors). For time purposes, box has to suffice. Thanks for giveaway & all that you share of yourself!! Awesomeness!
I occasionally use boxed cake mix. When I do, it’s Duncan Hines.
Would you use boxed cake mix? If yes, what is your favorite brand?
Yes, I have before, Duncan Hines is always very moist and delicious. I do prefer homemade cake, but when in a pinch the boxed mix can do just fine!
I’m not a fan of boxed cake mixes or canned frosting. It just tastes fake to me.
I don’t mind the boxed cake mixes. I prefer homemade frosting, but am typically too lazy. What is everyone’s favorite frosting recipe?
I don’t mind boxed cake mixes, especially when it’s about convenience. My favorite brand is duncan hines for all flavors except plain chocolate. If I need a plain chocolate box mix, I go with the Pillsbury Dark Chocolate cake mix.
I’ve used a box mix but never just “as is”, I’ve added jello/flavoring/something extra to make taste more homemade. NOT a fan of canned frosting, have not found one I like.
Duncan Hines if Im in a pinch!
Pretty pretty!!! I often use cake mixes with homemade frosting. I like Betty Crocker. Thanks for sharing!
In a pinch I have when my buttercream wasn’t stiff enough and I had run out of powdered sugar. But otherwise, no. Don’t care for the taste and the consistency either.
Betty Crocker
I use a box mix, but with the ourbestbites white cake recipe (is it tacky to mention one blog on another???? Hope not since they’re fab). Oh, and maybe you should do what I threatened my boys with if they don’t start putting clothes away, I’ll just dump them in the middle of the floor!
Ha! Love it. Feel free to share a link for the white cake, would love to see!
Yes, I have used box cake mixes. Usually Duncan Hines, but occasionally Betty Crocker and I definately jazz them up with extra ingredients like butter, sour cream, vanilla, pudding….Oh My Goodness..I NEVER USE CANNED FROSTING…I have tried them, but years ago and I learned then that nothing replaces the fresh and sweet taste of homemade buttercream! BTW, this Halloween cake is GORGEOUS!!
Such a cute and simple cake! I don’t use box mixes anymore in my house… mostly because we are gluten free! I am still looking for the ultimate chocolate cake recipe!
I am one who never, ever uses boxed cake mixes or frosting. I just don’t like that preservative taste that they have.
I would use boxed cake mix if I was limited in time… Duncan Heinz is my favorite!
Can’t wait for the video tutorial!!!!
I don’t mind using a boxed cake mix. But once you make your own frosting from scratch — nothing else comes close! I agree about those canned frostings. They taste like chemicals.
Wow Amanda! What an adorable cake!!! LOVE IT!
Super fun, I love this cake! So pretty!
yes I do use box cake mix and mainly duncan hines
but I always do homemade frosting with them I don’t like the canned stuff
I love boxed cake mixes and have only ever used canned frosting…lame, I know. I don’t think I have ever tasted “from scratch” frosting unless it was on someone’s wedding cake, perhaps. I don’t get to make cakes often so that’s the main reason why I haven’t tried to whip up a scratch frosting yet….but I would like to remedy that.
What the what! This is beyond awesome! I’m one of those people who isn’t really into candy corn, but if it’s around i’ll eat it and then get a stomach ache from eating too much. So, most likely if this was around I’d devour the whole thing by myself… in one sitting. I have no will power.
This cake looks amazing! Honestly, the last time I used a box cake mix.. it was a horrible mistake and it tasted just awful! I will probably not be using any in the future.
I use Betty Crocker but I doctor it up. A little almond extract, butter flavor and some cardamon. Yummy!
Looks great. Super excited for the tutorial when it does get posted!
So creative! Beautiful cake.
This is so pretty, Amanda! And, I must admit, I’m in the minority and LIKE canned frosting. I know…it’s terrible. My tastebuds are unrefined.
Now that is the silliest thing I have ever heard! You have a MUCH more refined palate than I!
Honestly, I buy which ever cake mix is on sale. I haven’t run into any mix that I didn’t like. But recently I’ve started adding more cocoa to my chocolate cake mixes. The chocolate mixes aren’t ever chocolaty enough for me. What can I say, I LOVE chocolate!!
Thank you for your inspiring ideas. I love the candy corn cake!
Agree with you 100% – boxed cake mix can be good but canned frosting is disgusting. Your cake looks great! A simple idea but well-executed. Beautiful!
I would use a cake mix no prob with that. We get Philsburry in India. That works just fine for me.
Yes, I would use a cake mix and do occasionaly especially with a white cake. If I have a large or multiple cakes to make, I will use one mix and then add my scratch recipe to it. It seems to stay moister longer than a white scratch cake alone. I prefer Duncan Hines mixes but always use butter and milk instead of oil and water. Just makes a better cake. I am going to try to do your icing technique next week with a baby shower cake. Pink, blue and green pastels would look really cute I think. Love your stuff!
When baking chocolate cake, I use a recipe from scratch. In strawberry, I use box cake and add fresh strawberries.
Even though my family loves the cakes from scratch, they STILL want the FUNFETTI box cake sometimes!
My Dad used to make it for them when he was alive, and they just have such fond memories
Oh what a great giveaway! I think there may be every frosting tip you need in there. I agree, once you go to making your own frosting, it’s really hard to go back to store bought. I have had to do it in a hurry though! I loved this layered frosting look and I look forward to a tutorial!
I can’t wait for the tutorial! Looks awesome!
If I had to use a box mix I would, but I prefer to make from scratch.
You, my friend, are just too brilliant. This is stunning!
I haven’t used box mix in forever. I would rather make a cake from scratch! But if I was pressed for time, I would probably use Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines.
The last time I used a box mix was over a year ago, and that was because I was making a cake that looked like a pokeball on the inside, so I used box for two of the colors to speed up the process. It was delicious. I think I used pillsbury, but I would have used any that were on sale. I’m not super picky.
i woul never use cake mix, or, if theres such a misery going on, i would use an organic one, no special brand.
sorry, but cake mixes are directly from hell!
I use cake mix fairly often actually… super moist (by duncan hines i think) is my favorite!
I use a lot of boxed cake mixes but they are usually for those Pinterest cake/brownie recipes I find. I like Pillsbury Cake mixes.
I use boxed cake mixes all of the time. I do not have a preferred brand just which ever one is on sale but normally it ends up being Duncan Hines.
I don’t use boxed cake mix anymore either! If I don’t have the time to make it myself, it is Whole Foods bakery for me, since they seem to put in the time and effort to make from scratch.
I love Betty Crocker and Phillsbury (pudding in the mixes are great!) I normally make them differently then the back of the box says though.
I am semi-obsessed with candy corn so of course I’m drooling over this cake! And I’m a huge frosting snob and won’t use canned…unless the cake i for someone I don’t like.
As far as cake mixes go, I use Betty Crocker but doctor it up.
Yes, I would use a box cake mix, but usually have to jazz them up. They have a bit of an artificial taste to me. No set favorites though – Betty, Duncan, Pills, whatever
Great cake!! I, too, used to use store bought frosting until I started making my own…not it’s really hard to go back. The store bought cake mix- there is nothing like it and sometimes it’s just so much easier:)
Wow! I love how awesome that looks! I totally need to learn how to do this! I like to mix cream cheese into the store bought frosting to make it creamier! I would love to win this and get decorating!
THIS IS SOOOOOOO INCREDIBLE!
Love the colors. My husband would totally dig this cake.
This is so pretty! I can’t wait to see your video toot! I really don’t like box mixes for cake I’ve got so many good homemade recipes I don’t usually bother with a mix. But it’s funny, when it comes to brownies I prefer the box and Duncan Hines in my favorite!
Do I mind using box cakes? Not at all. There is so much you can add to them to make them special. A box cake made to package directions with really good home made frosting will food just about anyone. My only wish is that the companies would stop messing around with the net weight! That always makes “doctoring” a little more challenging.
The candy corn cake is too cute though. I also love your “rose” cakes. So clever!
Yes, I would in fact use boxed cake mix and I do so very often. I can’t really tell the difference between them, so I don’t necessarily have a favorite. But I’ve heard the ones that used pudding in the mix can be quite tasty!
I use whatever is on sale.
I use box cake whenever I have to bake a gluten free cake. It’s just more reliable. Basco brand.
I always do this too! They really are so much more reliable than trying to get things right from a scratch recipe. Some of the mixes even taste nearly identical to a regular flour cake.
I forget the name of my favorite brand, but I remember where to get it!
Wow what an awesome cake and what an awesome giveaway from Wilton. Hopefully I am eligible.
Thanks
Trace
that looks amazing, I want to try it.
My best friend used boxed cake for her wedding cake, no one knew. She got several complements on how moist the cake was, we just laughed
Boxed mix, sometimes. It really is not bad if doctored up. I prefer homemade icing.
I love the idea of mixing candy with the cake, I think I’ll have to have a hunt and see if I can find something that I can do the same with and build up in layers like this. Maybe a rainbow cake, with MANY layers, but then I’d have to find some candy or something that matched :/
Thanks for sharing with us! (especially with so little time too!)
sammie x
I think the national brands of cake mixes are really good and I use them all the time. But I hate canned frosting and almost never buy it.
I made a pink champagne cake for my sisters wedding…for the practice cakes I doctored up one box cake mix, for the other layers I made scratch versions. Everyone at work preferred the doctored up cake box. There is no shame in boxed cake!
I use packet mix cakes sometimes, but I tend to mix up my own icing. Thanks for a great post, I do love to see decorating techniques, even if the cake was a non winner!
I only use boxed cake mix when I bake with my nephews. They like to open the box because they see it as a gift or something. I use whatever’s on sale, to be honest. Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker
i do use box mixes on occasion, usually betty crocker..but i try to avoid using canned frosting…it tastes like sugary chemicals!
I usually bake from scratch, have used a box mix before, trying to save time.
I love using box cake mixes! Call me a cheater, but sometimes they’re really good!
I use box mixes when following the cake doctor recipes. I don’t have a favorite brand, just go with the one that adds pudding.
Would you use boxed cake mix? If yes, what is your favorite brand?
I don’t typically use boxed cake mix–however, I did recently as I was in a hurry and I forgot how quick and easy it is! Definitely prefer homemade cakes–plus, people are super impressed when you tell them it’s from scratch!
Don’t have a favorite brand, as I don’t use them enough–but I will be interested to find a stand-in for homemade cakes by viewing others posts!
I usually use the Duncan Hines if’ I’m feeling lazy, and never the canned icing. EWWWWWW.
I almost always doctor a boxed cake mix if possible.
I do like Duncan Hines but I don’t like canned frosting! Great giveaway
Thanks!
Maybe…if I was really pressed for time and low on materials. But NOTHING tastes better than from scratch! Awesome giveaway!
I would love to make homemade cakes but I never have the time! Boxed cake mixes are just as good though, I typically use Pillsbury but I have used Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker. Most importantly is the frosting, I never use the store bought frosting, always homemade, it is so much better!
Beautiful cake
sorry I forgot there was a question involved, I have used boxed cake mix before, but not canned frosting, it tastes like chemicals and I love real butter.
I have this book called the Cake Mix Doctor and I LOVE it to death. So yes, I use cake mix…favorite brand is Duncan Hines.
I often use boxed cake mixes to save time if I am planning to make an elaborately decorated cake. Duncan Hines always turns out moist and yummy for me!
Pillsbury Moist Supreme is the mix I use if I don’t have time for homemade.
I usually avoid cake mixes because I think it takes all of the fun out of baking. Its just to quick. I love measuring out the ingredients one by one!
I occasionally used box cake mixes, though I like to make everything from scratch if I have the time. If I do use one it’s usually Betty Crocker.
I occasionally use cake mix boxes of whatever brand is on sale. But prefer to bake from scratch.
I always use box mixes. I have been too intimidated to make a cake from scratch!
I always bake my cakes from scratch, but I would love to use box mixes, especially with lemon flavor. My aunt used to bring some Betty Crocker and I so loved the taste.
I usually buy either one that is on sale. I really prefer to make my own cake mix and usually do.
I never used boxed mixes…always from scratch! I think they taste the best…
I haven’t ever used a boxed cake mix. In the UK they are quite expensive and i’ve always been brought up to make cakes from scratch. That said i’m sure they are great. x
I do use boxed mixes when I’m in a pinch. But I think baking from scratch is really fun, and try to do that whenever possible! (:
I prefer to bake my treats from scratch
)
I don’t know if using box mixes is always an option, I love to bake everything on my own ; )
I used to only use Dunkin Hines boxed mixes, but since I started baking from scratch, I just can’t go back! Especially since my favorite basic cake recipes are nearly as simple as making a box mix and way more tasty!
I don’t like the canned stuff either. I would use a cake mix in a pinch.
I’m a huge sucker for Betty Crocker and Funfetti! I like to make my own cake when I can but more often than not it’s from box mix.
i used boxed cake mix, but hate the frosting!
If I have to use a box mix I only use Betty Crocker mix
I have only used box cake mix. I choose whatever is cheapest and has the flavor I’m looking for!
I would SO love to win this set!
Boxed cake mix can be good if you’re too lazy to want to get all the ingredients together yourself (like me). Pillsbury is usually my first choice. Sorry to hear about your bad experience with the frosting. Your candy corn cake still looks amazing!
I wouldn’t normally dream of using mixes…but this looks pretty good! Do you find the mixes a bit…well…salty? I’m not sure what cakes taste like in the US but every time I buy one of the American brand ‘quick fix’ cake mixes (only ever if I’m in a mega hurry) I find that too much salt has been added…maybe cakes are just bland in the UK and I’m used to it? lol
i have used boxed cake occasionally – duncan hines – but do prefer from scratch
I sometimes use a cake mix when I,m Pressed for time.
I do used boxed cake mixes most of the time…whatever is on sale
I love the way this cake looks! I’ve never been a fan of using canned frosting. I do like using boxed mixes a lot. I haven’t quite found that from scratch recipe that I love. That decorator’s set looks amazing!
I use Pillsbury only. It’s by far the best I’ve found.
Looks so yummy. I love Candy Corn! Especially the little candy corn pumpkins. I freeze mine and then pop one or two in my mouth for a nice refreshing dessert. The cake looks adorable.
I have to agree…. I am not a frosting in a can kind of girl. It’s homemade all the way!
I enjoy seeing your cakes and demonstrations. Keep up the good work!
I’ve never used any cake mix..but from the pics I get to c it’s very moist n perfect..Thinking of trying betty crocker mix
This would make an amazing gift for my daughter who is just starting to decorate.
Love your cake!
My favorite mix to us is Duncan Hines…the butter recipe ones.
It’s the thought and creativity that counts! I use Duncan Hines box mixes all the time
Box cake mix with homemade frosting is the best way to go!
I love this cake, thanks for sharing the idea! And all of those tips would be an awesome addition to my collection!
I prefer not to use box caked mixes as I’m trying to get as much practice with “real” baking as possible. Boxed brownies are a different story…
I use Pillsbury boxed cake mixes…..
Love this cake…..I’m going to make it for my husband’s office pot luck this week!
I have used boxed cake mix occasionally, but I almost always have the ingredients on hand for my favorite chocolate cake, so it’s what I go to first. I’m not particular about brand of cake mix… around here I can usually find Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines.
I seem to always have a can of frosting on hand, but I rarely use it for cakes even if I’m using boxed mix. I do use it for cupcakes sometimes, though. It’s just too sticky for proper decorating in my opinion.
Don’t know if mine was lost or not, but I’d love this giveaway!
I would use a box cake, and any brand usually tastes good to me but my favorite is Betty Crocker
I don’t bake a ton… but I usually use a box cake mix and make my own frosting. =) I don’t have a brand preference.
Great idea….so pleasing to the eye and all those candy corn lovers out there!
It’s been a while since I used a cake mix but I have no problem using one that’s how I learned how to bake. My favorite brand is duncan hines.
I prefer to bake all things from scratch but they are times when cake mixes are totally ok.
I do make cakes from cake boxes, I love Duncan Hines Decadent brand or simple butter home style vanilla.
There was a brand here in Australia called Cadbury’s I don’t think they sell it any more…
I use boxed cake mix sometimes, but usually add a little vanilla and butter extract to help it along. Typically Duncan Hines, but it still doesn’t compare to homemade.
I prefer Duncan Hines as far boxed mixes, but much prefer scratch.
I never use boxed cake mixes, but that is just my nuttiness that everything needs to be homemade – I love to bake and I think it tastes much better
. I love your website – you have inspired me with all of your cake decorating ideas and I have started a small Wilton tip collection! I recently used your butter cream crusting recipe to decorate the cupcakes I made for my daughter’s 3 rd birthday.
Hi Amanda,
That’s a gorgeous cake. You have so many gorgeous cakes here, I am planning to try several of them soon. Will definitely let you know how they turn up
Regards,
Manju
I have used box cakes in the beginning, while I was learning to bake, but now I sort of prefer made-from-scratch cakes. But box mixes are equally good, so I have a neutral opinion
Regards,
Manju
Of course I prefer from scratch, but a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do to get things done
I actually prefer them when I am doing a poke cake, ect. and I love Betty Crocker 
That looks marvelous!
I don´t use cake mix, so I don´t have a favorite brand.
Candy corn is my favorite fall candy. This cake looks delicious!
This looks amazing! I may have to make this for my boyfriends birthday that is coming up. Have you ever seen the Christmas candy corn? They would probably make an awesome cake!
I have not seen that… but what a great idea!
While I honestly prefer making cakes from scratch, (just cause I think they taste better, and I don’t find it too difficult to make ‘um up) I do have some box mixes I use for those times when I feel plain lazy. They really aren’t all that bad, which constantly surprises me. Though I have to say, I’d never use canned frosting. I use to love it, but now it’s just waaaaay too sugary for me. One bite and I’m practically in sugar overload. I don’t really know if I’d have a favorite box brand. Betty Crocker’s is good, though most of the time I just go for the one that’s one sale.
that cake looks so yummy. I would love a decorating kit.
for quick fixes or last minute parties I use cake mixes, I dont have a preferred brand though, just flavors
I’m not against a cake mix, but don’t use them very much. Hatti is mesmerized by this cake, she thinks it’s awesome!!
Yes, I would use a box cake mix and usually buy whatever is on sale. I use homemade frosting, though, unless I’m just in a super hurry, as I don’t prefer the chemically taste of store bought frosting. If I’m in that much of a hurry, I’ll usually do cookies or a cobbler or something besides cake, unless it just HAS to be cake.
I have used box cakes though I prefer to make my own. It depends on the occassion. 3 year old’s holiday party at daycare? Box. Engagement party at the country club? Scratch. I don’t mind box mixes at all, but do not care for canned frosting. I’ll only use that when making a practice cake.
Love this! Great description!
I nearly always use boxed cake mixes; but if I have more time and feel more adventurous, I’ll try something more challenging.
Love it!!!
homemade is always good but if you don’t have enough time betty crocker is good.
The cake looks awesome! I am going to make it for the office for the October birthdays. Thank you for the idea!
This is one of the coolest Halloween / Fall themed cakes I have ever seen!
I would love to be able to decorate fancy cakes and this would certainly help! Thanks for a great blog.
No I hardly ever have used boxed mixes, so I don’t have a favorite at all.
I’ve used from scratch and boxed mixes as well as a mix of the mixes. I don’t have a preference. It just depends on what I caught on sale and what is in my pantry at the time I decide to make cakes. I’ve moved away from storebought frosting though, but I can’t seem to keep enough powdered sugar in the house!
Home-made all the way for me! But it is handy in a hurry!
Argh, I know it all about canned frosting. In India, we get Pillsbury’s chocolate and vanilla flavoured frosting and the imported ‘expensive’ Betty Crocker’. I tried them both while starting out. They seemed okay firt, but didn’t hold very long. Using Pillsbury’s vanilla was the lat straw.
Sweetapolita does have some great tutorials and those ombre cakes are just lovely.
Maybe some day I’ll muster up the courage to try one myself.
I like the Betty Crocker cake mix when I don’t have time to make a cake from scratch.
Dunkin Hines or Betty Crocker work for me! Love this cake idea!
I use Duncan Hines … French Vanilla it´s my favorite but I prepare with butter and more eggs. Thanks for your posts you are so kind with all of us!!
I use Duncan Hines … French Vanilla it´s my favorite flavor, but I prepare with butter and 4 eggs. Thanks !!
yes! and although i use a lot of betty crocker, my favourite is duncan hines! way more dense and better for decorating.
awesome cakes btw!
Yes, I have used box mixes, Duncan Hines Chocolate Fudge is my favorite. Thanks for the great give away.
such an adorable cake! i love it!!
Love this cake and think it will be a big hit with my 2 & 4 year old grand-daughters this Halloween. I have no problems using a boxed cake when I am in a hurry. I prefer Duncan Hines because it seems to have a more natural taste and is very moist.
Oh my goodness! This is such an awesome cake! Matt was so baffled at how you could do that with a cake! (He is definitely a baker’s husband) It is so pretty. I want to try to make one for Halloween. Can’t wait for the tutorial
dunkin heinz brownies
I do use box mixes on occasion. I think the one I use is Betty Crocker. However, it could be Duncan Hines. I haven’t used one in so long, I can’t remember which one I buy! Loved the Candy Corn Cake!
Beautiful cake. I will be making this for our Fall Festival.
Pretty cake!!! I love to make from scratch, but if I’m in a hurry, Betty Crocker all the way!
I wouldn’t use a cake mix, but that’s probably only because I feel that half the fun is the baking part, it’s a great stress relief for me. I hope the cake tasted good, I live in Australia, so I don’t know anything about candy corn but the cake looks really good.
I like box mixes for quick dessert cakes, but special occasion cakes are always from scratch!
Yes, I would use boxed mixes for cakes….and Duncan Hines is my favorite brand of boxed mix.
This cake looks yummy. I love dunkin hinze cake mixes
Always from scratch, but only because we don’t have boxed mixes where I live!
Me encantaría tenerlo para aprender a hacer esas preciosidades.
Gracias!!!
Man, this is such a great idea!
What a beautiful cake.
Thank you!
I use Duncan Hines!
Looks delicious!
I use Pillsbury classic white and devil’s food mixes.
This is such a fun way to present a classic idea, and soo easy. Thank you!
I prefer homemade but I keep a stash of Pilsbury at home for emergencies
My favourite brand in Aus for flavoured cakes is Greens. But for plain vanilla or chocolate, I’m not going to lie, I LOVE the 75cent Home Brand mixes. They just work perfectly every time, and are definitely my go-to if I’m short on time. And did I mention, 75cents!
I use Pillsbury Cake mixes. However I change the oil to butter and the liquid to milk. Tastes great!! This is also my entry blog comment for the contest. LOVE your FB page by the way!!
I use Pillsbury cake mixes when I am in a hurry. However I replace the liquid with milk and the oil with butter. Taste great. This is my entry blog comment for the giveaway. Love your FB page
I have used boxed in the past. I would still use it if that was my only option, but i’d much rather make a cake from scratch! It’s more fun that way!
I love how that frosting blends together.
Sorry…. not really ever a boxed cake for me. I can taste the difference. I understand the desire to use them, I just don’t care for the result. I do fully support anyone making the best choices that work for them! Viva la cake!
I do use cake mixes. My favorite is Duncan Hines. They taste great and are very good to work with. I would like to try the Indian corn cake. Looks amazing!
I use cake mixes because I haven’t yet found a cake recipe that is moist and that does not have a dense texture to it.
I use box cakes and pep them up when in a hurry!
Super cute! I think I might have to make this!
I do use cake mixes and usually buy the ones that are on sale. I have been making cakes much more from scratch the last few years, but I like to have mixes on hand, especially white and yellow cake mixes as I haven’t found a great go to recipe for either of those yet. I do have great recipes for carrot and chocolate cake, though. I do like to doctor mixes up. I love the “Cake Mix Doctor” book!
Canned frosting is definitely a no go. I did buy one for my daughter because that’s what she wanted and she decorated her birthday cake.
I find that it is petty simple to make a good frosting from scratch.
My mom runs an afterschool, and she exploits (which I willingly allow – hehe) my love for baking by asking me to bake cake for the kids………… using cake-mix. Out of all the ones I’ve baked for my mom, Betty Crocker’s is the best boxed cake-mix!
Personally, I’d still want to bake my cake from scratch
Aunt Jemina’s!!
I love cake mixes, add an extra egg, use butter instead of oil and it tastes like homemade! Its great when you are in hurry!
Gorgeous cake! I would say if I must choose, Pillsbury. If I win, I’m coming over and you can teach me how to use all of these gadgets!
hey.. loved the cake!! though i never win giveaways but still.. I haven’t tried any box mix yet but I can try. I love the cakes made from scratch!!! hope to win..
WOW!
Such an amazing cake!
Looks so tasty and beautiful..
Looks so tasty and beautiful..
As the others have said when using boxed mixes, I doctor them as well and nobody would believe it’s a boxed mix. Love, love, love your cake. Candy corn is my son’s favorite fall treat, so I have to try this cake. You are so creative!
Oh my goodness, that cake is cute! I have used box cake mixes for things that want that “cake batter” taste, but usually I stick with going from scratch. In the past, I’ve done pretty well with Duncan Hines!
So simple it makes one wonder why they didn’t think of it. You are just so clever! Thanks for sharing.
i always make from scratch but don’t mind eating betty crocker’s moist chocolate cake at friend’s place
that cake looks awesome, we use packet cake for all ours at least you know it tastes good
I love this, ive been going through a layering phase at the moment and this is so clean simple and just lovely, thanks for sharing!
I can’t wait for your tutorial on you easy method of this frosting. I love the stripes of colour, especially in the cut cake and how the colours match the cake colours.
Love this cake
I try to avoid cake mix, but my little brother has a thing for box cakes, haha. I usually just buy what’s on sale!
duncan hines!
That is awesome! I would use boxed mix because it is just a blank slate.
Love it! I would love to make this for our office!
That is SO cool! And totally gorgeous.
Candy corn cake!! Looks yummy.
Thanks for the great idea. It will sure be a hit for all my kids and their spouses which total 18 and my 15 grandchildren.
Wow this cake looks amazing. Randomly came across your blog and now I want to try all your amazing cake recipes!
What a fun as well as delicious cake! I just used the white cake mix – dividing it into 3 parts, then adding cocoa for the chocolate and orange extract for the center layer. I did the same for the frostings and it turned out really awesome. For a little extra touch and for fun I put a row of candy corn around the base and at the top. Everyone loved it.
Have you put together a decorating tutorial yet?
I saw this and would love to do it for a Halloween party at work. Even just a written description with no photos would be helpful. Beautiful cake, in any case!
Having gone from a house full of girls, friends visit, meals for church to empty nest and now a husband with diabetes, I miss baking. I have found a way to keep me happy and to bless others- making a cake of the week, and bringing it to someone at church. Guess what cake I will be making this week?! generally do not do boxed cakes- feels like cheating- and frosting- the store stuff is hideous!
Absolutely love this cake, brilliant and I bet it taste yummy too!