Best Mother’s Crack Cake

Ultra-moist, buttery, sweet, and completely addictive

Introduction

This cake has earned its bold nickname for a reason. It’s incredibly moist, rich, and soaked in a warm buttery glaze that seeps into every bite. It’s the kind of cake you slice “just a little piece” of… and somehow the whole cake disappears by the end of the day. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or just because you deserve it.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
4 large eggs
¾ cup water
¾ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but highly recommended)

For the Butter Glaze

½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Generously grease a Bundt pan with butter or nonstick spray. Make sure every crevice is coated—this cake loves to stick.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Cake mix
  • Dry pudding mix
  • Eggs
  • Water
  • Oil
  • Brown sugar
  • White sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cinnamon (if using)

Mix well for about 2 minutes until smooth and thick.

Step 3: Bake

Pour batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Butter Glaze Method

While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:

  • Butter
  • Water
  • Sugar

Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Assembly (The Secret to Addiction)

When the cake comes out of the oven:

  1. Leave it in the pan
  2. Poke holes all over the cake using a skewer or fork
  3. Slowly pour the warm glaze over the cake, letting it soak in

Let the cake sit for 20–30 minutes, then carefully invert onto a plate.

Texture & Flavor

Moist, dense, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth
Sweet but not overwhelming
Richer the next day (if it lasts that long)

History & Why It’s Famous

This recipe became popular in American home kitchens because it uses simple pantry ingredients but tastes like a bakery masterpiece. The pudding mix and butter glaze are what set it apart—creating that legendary moist texture people can’t stop eating.

Benefits (Yes, Even Dessert Has Them )

Quick and beginner-friendly
Feeds a crowd
Stays moist for days
Perfect make-ahead dessert
Comfort food at its best

Nutrition (Approximate per slice)

Calories: ~430
Carbohydrates: High
Fat: Rich and buttery
Protein: Moderate
Best enjoyed in happy moderation

Storage

Cover tightly at room temperature for 3 days
Refrigerate up to 5 days
Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months

Conclusion

This is not just a cake—it’s an experience. One bite explains the name, and one slice is never enough. If you make this once, it will become a permanent part of your recipe collection.

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