Name: Moist Cake Mix Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; 15½ oz chocolate cake mix; 6 oz semisweet chocolate chips; 1 cup Walnuts; ½ cup milk; ⅓ cup applesauce; 1 large egg

Indulge in the decadence of this moist brownie cake mix recipe. A perfect blend of rich chocolate and delicate textures, this recipe takes the traditional brownie to new heights. With a few simple ingredients, you can create an impressive dessert that will surprise and delight your guests.

Photos of Moist Cake Mix Brownies Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common in most pantries, but there are a few items you might need to pick up. Semisweet chocolate chips and chocolate cake mix form the base of the cake, providing that rich chocolate flavor. You’ll also need walnuts for a bit of crunch and texture. Lastly, don't forget the applesauce. This might not be a typical ingredient in your baking pantry, but it acts as a great substitute for oil, keeping the cake moist without adding unnecessary fats.

Moist Brownie Cake Mix Ingredients

Chocolate cake mix: This acts as the base for the brownie cake, providing the perfect texture and rich chocolate flavor.

Semisweet chocolate chips: These add an additional layer of chocolaty goodness to the brownie cake.

Walnuts: Walnuts provide a nice crunch and contrasting texture against the moist, soft brownie cake.

Milk: Milk helps to bind all the ingredients together and contributes to a moist, delicious brownie cake.

Applesauce: This is the secret ingredient that keeps the brownie cake moist and light, without adding unnecessary fats.

Egg: Eggs are a basic binding ingredient in many baking recipes, and this one is no exception.

One reader, Corabel Parham says:

This moist brownie cake mix recipe is a game-changer! The result was a decadent, fudgy brownie cake that was a hit with my family. The addition of walnuts and chocolate chips added a delightful crunch. It's a simple and foolproof recipe that's perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving. Highly recommended!

Corabel Parham

Techniques Required for Making a Moist Brownie Cake Mix Recipe

How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to combine the ingredients: Combine the cake mix, chocolate chips, walnuts, milk, applesauce, and egg in a large bowl until well mixed.

How to pour the batter into the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared 9x13-inch baking pan and spread it evenly.

How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake and ensure it comes out clean to indicate that the cake is fully baked.

How to cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting it into squares.

How to store the brownie cake: Store the brownie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for longer storage.

How To Make Moist Cake Mix Brownies

For a great last-minute dessert, whip up these rich cake mix brownies, packed with chocolate chips and walnuts for a tastier sweet treat!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

nonstick cooking spray
15½ozchocolate cake mix,(1 package)
6ozsemisweet chocolate chips,(1 package)
1cupwalnuts,chopped
½cupmilk
⅓cupapplesauce
1large egg

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
Combine the cake mix, chocolate chips, walnuts, milk, applesauce, and egg in a large bowl.
Pour into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 124.87kcal
Fat: 5.84g
Saturated Fat: 2.05g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.24g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.23g
Carbohydrates: 18.66g
Fiber: 0.91g
Sugar: 11.46g
Protein: 1.83g
Cholesterol: 8.26mg
Sodium: 157.33mg
Calcium: 36.94mg
Potassium: 99.12mg
Iron: 1.10mg
Vitamin A: 5.89µg
Vitamin C: 0.72mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving a Perfectly Moist Brownie Cake

When adding the chocolate chips to the cake mix, try melting half of them before mixing. This will create a richer, more intense chocolate flavor in your brownie cake. Also, toasting the walnuts before adding them to the mix can enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to your brownies.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Moist Brownie Cake Mix

Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients and equipment before you start. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute scrambling.

One-bowl method: Look for recipes that use only one bowl for mixing to minimize cleanup time and effort.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop nuts, blend ingredients, or make dough, saving time and effort.

Batch cooking: Consider making a double batch and freezing the extra for future use. This can save time on meal prep in the long run.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to save time searching for tools and ingredients.

Pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-cut vegetables or pre-chopped nuts to save time on prep work.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes and having to start over, saving time and ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Moist Cake Mix Brownies Recipe

nonstick cooking spray - Substitute with butter or oil: Butter or oil can be used to grease the baking pan to prevent the brownies from sticking.
chocolate cake mix - Substitute with cocoa powder and flour: To make your own chocolate cake mix, you can combine cocoa powder and flour in the same ratio as the cake mix.
semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for semisweet chocolate chips, providing a richer and slightly less sweet flavor.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans or almonds: Pecans or almonds can be used as a substitute for walnuts, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunch.
milk - Substitute with almond milk or coconut milk: Almond milk or coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to regular milk in the brownie mix.
applesauce - Substitute with mashed bananas: Mashed bananas can be used as a substitute for applesauce to add moisture to the brownie mix while also adding a hint of natural sweetness.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed or chia seed egg: A flaxseed or chia seed egg can be used as a vegan substitute for a regular egg in the brownie mix, providing binding and moisture.

Presentation Tips for a Delectable Brownie Cake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the moist brownie cake, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use edible flowers or cocoa powder to add a touch of sophistication to the plate.
Incorporate texture: Add a contrasting element to the plate to enhance the overall dining experience. Consider serving the brownie cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to provide a delightful textural contrast.
Play with height: Experiment with the presentation by adding a vertical element to the dish. Consider stacking the brownie cake slices and garnishing with a drizzle of chocolate ganache to create an eye-catching and luxurious dessert.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by incorporating negative space on the plate. Allow the rich, moist brownie cake to be the focal point, and complement it with a subtle dusting of powdered sugar for a clean and sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate a sauce: Elevate the dessert by drizzling a decadent caramel sauce or raspberry coulis on the plate. The addition of a complementary sauce not only enhances the flavor but also adds a professional touch to the overall presentation.

Storing and Freezing Your Moist Brownie Cake Mix Creation

Once the brownie cake has cooled completely, cut it into squares or your desired serving sizes.
Place the brownie squares in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container in a cool, dry place at room temperature for up to 5 days.
If you want to keep the brownies fresh for a longer period, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
To freeze the brownies, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal.
Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Freeze the brownies for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen brownies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour, or until they reach your desired level of thawing.
If you prefer a slightly warmed brownie, you can microwave the thawed brownie for a few seconds before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Brownie Cake

To reheat leftover moist brownie cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the brownie loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will help to retain the moisture, ensuring that your brownie remains soft and gooey.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the brownie to become tough and rubbery. To maintain the moisture, place a damp paper towel over the brownie before microwaving.
For a quick and easy method, use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownie on a small baking tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is perfect for reheating individual portions without having to use a full-sized oven.
If you want to add a touch of indulgence, try warming your leftover brownie in a skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the brownie and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until heated through. Serve the warm brownie with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
For a no-fuss approach, simply let the brownie come to room temperature on its own. This method works well if you prefer a denser, fudgier texture. Allow the brownie to sit out for 30 minutes to an hour before serving. If desired, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for added flavor and presentation.

Interesting Trivia About Brownie Cake Mix Recipes

The brownie cake mix recipe is a convenient and time-saving option for baking enthusiasts. It allows for a quick and easy way to create delicious and moist brownies without the need for measuring out individual ingredients. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy homemade brownies without the hassle of starting from scratch. Whether it's for a last-minute dessert or a sweet treat for a gathering, this brownie cake mix recipe provides a simple and satisfying solution.

Is Making a Moist Brownie Cake Mix Recipe Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this brownie cake mix recipe is quite high, as it utilizes common pantry ingredients and requires minimal additional purchases. The use of chocolate cake mix and semisweet chocolate chips may already be present in many households, making it a budget-friendly option. The addition of walnuts and applesauce provides nutritional value without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this recipe is a great option for a household dessert, with an approximate cost of $10 for a household of 4 people. Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Brownie Cake Mix Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

While this brownie cake mix recipe does include some healthier ingredients like applesauce and walnuts, it still relies heavily on processed ingredients like chocolate cake mix and chocolate chips, which are high in sugar and unhealthy fats. The recipe also lacks any significant sources of fiber or nutrients, making it more of an indulgent treat than a healthy snack or dessert.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the chocolate cake mix with a homemade version using whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Reduce the amount of chocolate chips or opt for dark chocolate chips with a higher percentage of cocoa for added health benefits
Increase the amount of applesauce and reduce the amount of milk to cut down on added sugars and fats
Add in some shredded zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrients
Top the finished brownies with fresh berries or a drizzle of natural nut butter for added flavor and nutrition

By making these simple swaps and additions, you can transform this indulgent brownie cake mix recipe into a healthier treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying desserts as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Moist Brownie Cake Mix Recipe

This brownie cake mix recipe is a delightful and convenient way to create moist and decadent brownies. The combination of chocolate cake mix, chocolate chips, and walnuts provides a rich and indulgent flavor, while the addition of milk and applesauce ensures a moist and tender texture. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers, and the end result is a crowd-pleasing treat that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich, fudgy goodness of these brownies with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly satisfying dessert experience.

Enhance Your Moist Cake Mix Brownies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the moist brownie cake with a side of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. The combination of the rich chocolate flavor with the savory roasted veggies is sure to be a hit!

Grilled Chicken Breast: For a heartier option, pair the moist brownie cake with some juicy grilled chicken breast. The contrast between the sweet dessert and the savory, smoky chicken is a delightful combination that will satisfy any appetite.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Balance out the richness of the moist brownie cake with a refreshing side of fresh fruit salad. The natural sweetness of the fruits will complement the chocolatey goodness of the cake, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dessert experience.

Delicious Alternatives to a Moist Brownie Cake Mix Recipe

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy recipe that combines ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of colorful bell peppers for a satisfying meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: A refreshing and tropical dessert that combines ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds for a guilt-free treat.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: A comforting and hearty soup that features tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich and creamy broth for a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Appetizer and Main Course Ideas to Complement Your Moist Brownie Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and indulgent dip is the perfect way to start any meal. Packed with spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses, it's sure to be a hit with your guests.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. This classic Italian-American main course is sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Beef Stroganoff: Whip up a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender strips of beef cooked in a savory and creamy sauce. This timeless main course is perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.

Why trust this Moist Cake Mix Brownies Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed success, as it uses a trusted chocolate cake mix as its base, ensuring a delicious and consistent result every time. The addition of semisweet chocolate chips and walnuts provides a delightful texture and depth of flavor. The use of milk and applesauce ensures a moist and rich brownie cake. With the incorporation of a large egg, this recipe promises a perfect balance of richness and structure. Trust in the simplicity and reliability of these ingredients to deliver a decadent and satisfying dessert experience.

Want to share your experience making these Moist Cake Mix Brownies or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this brownie cake more fudgy?

To make the brownie cake more fudgy, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of melted butter to the batter. This will give the brownie a richer and denser texture.

Can I substitute the applesauce with something else?

Yes, you can substitute the applesauce with an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.

Can I use a different type of nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of nuts you prefer or omit them altogether if you have a nut allergy. Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts would all be delicious alternatives.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix to create variations. For example, using a red velvet cake mix will result in a rich and slightly tangy brownie cake.

How should I store the brownie cake?

Store the brownie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.