Add an Egg

• In 1933, the Duff Company altered the course of cake mix forever when it developed a new mix requiring the addition of fresh eggs, replacing the dried or powdered eggs that previously had been included in the mix. This addition continues to be standard for today's cake mixes. Generally, you will need three eggs for a typical cake mix, as instructed on the box. More or fewer eggs may be required, depending on the particular flavor of the mix. If you are seeking a moister, more homemade-tasting cake, consider adding an extra egg beyond what the mix requires.

Water vs. Oil

• The first cake mixes called only for the addition of water to rehydrate the ingredients before baking. These days, some cake mixes still call for water, while others call for vegetable oil or even both liquids. If you do not have vegetable oil on hand, you may substitute a similarly flavor-neutral oil, such as canola. Olive oil is another option, but it will add a savory aspect to the cake. Measure the liquid accurately according to the instructions on the box as additional oil or water may affect the density and crumb of the finished cake.

Proper Pan Preparation

• Use quality pans to ensure even cooking. For the best stackable layers, use cake pans with straight sides, rather than pans with sides that are tapered outward. Grease the pans with oil or cooking spray and place a piece of parchment cut to the size of the pan on the bottom before pouring in the batter. This will make releasing the cake from the pan much easier and provide an easy-to-frost, flat top. Nonstick pans offer a consistent way to ensure your cake layers come out clean, but you should still grease the pans with a small amount of butter or oil and reduce the temperature of the oven by 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Get Creative

• Spruce up your cake mix by adding extra flavor and moisture with extracts, liquor, spices or instant pudding. A teaspoon or two of extract, such as almond, orange or mint, goes a long way to boost flavor in a plain mix. Add liquor, such as bourbon or rum or liqueur, such as Irish cream, to your mix for a boozy cake. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. Spices offer an easy way to add depth to your cake mix's flavor. Try mixing in a few dashes of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves or cardamom. Add a package of instant pudding directly to the cake mix. Choose a flavor that complements the cake to amp up both the taste and the moisture.