Easy Molasses Skillet Cake: A Rich & Cozy Dessert From Boxed Cake Mix
Prepare to be amazed as a simple boxed yellow cake mix is transformed into an extraordinary dessert! This Molasses Skillet Cake, infused with the deep, complex flavor of molasses, is a true game-changer. It’s an incredibly easy recipe that yields a moist, dense, and wonderfully flavorful cake, all baked to perfection in a trusty cast iron skillet. Topped with a delightful, crunchy, and buttery crumble, this cake is a standalone star, but a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream truly elevates it to an unforgettable treat.
The Unexpected Magic of Boxed Cake Mix
I confess, I have a deep affection for cake mix. While I rarely follow the instructions on the back of the box, using cake mix as a foundational ingredient for creative hacks? Absolutely! It’s an incredible shortcut that allows you to whip up homemade-tasting treats with minimal effort. This Molasses Skillet Cake is a prime example of such a good mix hack, and I’m confident you’ll fall in love with its simplicity and rich flavors.
This recipe embodies the spirit of a truly humble, country-style dessert. It doesn’t call for any exotic ingredients or specialized equipment. Forget about dragging out a stand mixer; all you need is a single mixing bowl and a cast iron skillet for baking. This streamlined approach means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
Why a Cast Iron Skillet is Your Best Friend for Baking
If you don’t already own one, allow me to try and convince you to invest in a cast iron skillet. There’s a very good reason why 98% of our grandmothers and mothers kept these versatile pans in their kitchens. They are absolute workhorses! Cast iron skillets transition seamlessly from stovetop to oven, making them perfect for everything from searing meats to baking desserts. They’re renowned for their even heat distribution, which results in beautifully browned crusts and perfectly cooked interiors.
Beyond their performance, cast iron skillets are surprisingly easy to clean and care for once seasoned properly. They develop a natural non-stick surface over time, making them a joy to cook with. Plus, they’re incredibly durable and affordable, often lasting for generations. Imagine baking a delicious cake, then serving it directly from the warm skillet – that’s the rustic charm and convenience a cast iron skillet offers. Sold yet?
Please note: If a cast iron skillet isn’t available, you can still make this delicious cake! Simply bake it in a standard 9×13-inch baking pan. The results will still be fantastic, though you might miss a touch of that signature cast iron crust.
Key Ingredients for Your Molasses Skillet Cake
This recipe relies on a few key ingredients that come together to create its signature rich and moist texture. Each component plays an important role:
- Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: This is our convenient base. A yellow cake mix typically has a vanilla flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the warm notes of molasses and ginger.
- Melted Butter: Instead of oil, melted butter adds a rich, dairy depth to the cake, contributing to its tender crumb and forming the irresistible crumble topping.
- Buttermilk: Essential for a tender and moist cake. Buttermilk reacts with the leavening agents in the cake mix, creating a light yet dense texture, and also adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the molasses. No buttermilk? You can easily make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup and filling the rest with regular milk (dairy or non-dairy) to reach 1/3 cup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
- Molasses: The star of the show! Molasses brings a unique, deep, slightly smoky sweetness and a beautiful dark color. For this recipe, light or dark molasses works best. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as its flavor can be too intense and bitter for a cake.
- Eggs: Provide structure, richness, and help bind all the ingredients together, ensuring a well-risen and cohesive cake.
- Ginger: The perfect spice companion for molasses. Ground ginger adds a warm, zesty kick that complements the deep flavor of the molasses without overpowering it. For an extra layer of warmth, you could also add a pinch of cinnamon or a tiny grating of fresh nutmeg.
The Irresistible Qualities of Molasses Skillet Cake
- Old-fashioned and Easy: A nostalgic dessert that tastes like it took hours, but comes together in minutes.
- Crunchy and Crumbly: The buttery topping bakes up to a perfect golden crunch, providing a delightful contrast to the soft cake.
- Dense and Moist: Molasses ensures a cake that is incredibly moist and wonderfully substantial, far from flimsy.
- Rich and Dark: Its deep, inviting hue and complex flavor profile make it a truly satisfying treat.
For an easy and truly delicious country dinner combination, try pairing this rich dessert with savory Slow Cooker Calico Beans. The contrasting flavors create a comforting and wholesome meal.
Molasses Skillet Cake
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Ingredients
- 1 16.5 ounce box yellow cake mix
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a 10.5-inch cast iron skillet by greasing it well with baking spray that contains flour, or butter and a light dusting of flour.
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In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the dry yellow cake mix and the melted butter. Mix them together with a fork or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse sand. This forms the base of your cake and part of your topping. Remove 1 cup of these delicious crumbs and set them aside in a small bowl for later use as the topping.
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To the remaining cake mix and butter mixture in the bowl, add the buttermilk, molasses, large eggs, and ground ginger. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Don’t worry if a few small lumps remain; the cake will still be wonderfully tender. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough cake.
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Carefully pour the cake batter into your prepared cast iron skillet, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Then, sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of buttery crumbs evenly over the top of the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it’s fully cooked.
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Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the Molasses Skillet Cake warm, either on its own or with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. Enjoy!
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Tips for Baking a Perfect Molasses Skillet Cake
- Don’t Overmix: While it’s important to combine the ingredients well, overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher cake. Mix until just combined.
- Proper Skillet Prep: Even if your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned, a quick spray with baking spray (especially one with flour) ensures an easy release and a beautiful crust.
- Check for Doneness: The toothpick test is reliable. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool in the skillet for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes for easier slicing.
- Storage: Store leftover cake at room temperature, covered tightly, for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s delicious warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This Molasses Skillet Cake is fantastic on its own, but here are some ways to make it even more special:
- Classic Pairings: As mentioned, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is a match made in heaven.
- Warm Toppings: Drizzle with warm caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar.
- A Touch of Salt: A tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top of the cake just before serving can enhance the molasses flavor beautifully.
- Seasonal Twist: For an autumn treat, consider adding a thin layer of finely sliced apples or pears on top of the batter before sprinkling the crumbs, for a molasses-spiced fruit crumble cake.
- Beverage Buddy: This rich cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, a robust black tea, or even a glass of cold milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While yellow cake mix provides a neutral base that lets the molasses and ginger shine, you could experiment! A spice cake mix would amplify the warm flavors, or even a chocolate cake mix could create a unique chocolate-molasses combination, though it would be a much darker, richer flavor profile.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem! You can easily make a substitute. For 1/3 cup of buttermilk, simply add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then fill the rest with regular milk (dairy or non-dairy) until it reaches the 1/3 cup mark. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. This “soured” milk will work perfectly.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, with some adjustments. Use a dairy-free yellow cake mix (check ingredients carefully). For the melted butter, use a dairy-free butter substitute. For the buttermilk, use the DIY method described above with your preferred dairy-free milk (almond, soy, oat milk work well).
Can I make this Molasses Skillet Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake keeps well. You can bake it a day or two in advance. Store it covered at room temperature. Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a fresh-baked feel, or simply enjoy it at room temperature.
How do I clean my cast iron skillet after baking?
After the skillet has cooled, scrape out any loose crumbs. Wash by hand with hot water and a stiff brush or non-abrasive sponge. Avoid harsh soaps if your skillet is well-seasoned. Dry thoroughly immediately after washing to prevent rust, then apply a very thin layer of cooking oil (like vegetable or grapeseed oil) to the interior before storing.
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