Crack Cake

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This indulgent, multi-layered dessert lives up to its name—Best Mother’s Crack Cake is irresistibly rich, gooey, and unforgettable. With a buttery cake base, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a crunchy streusel topping, every bite is a perfect balance of soft, sweet, and nutty textures. Whether you’re serving it at family gatherings or as a comforting treat, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite that disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Crack Cake

• Super moist and gooey—every bite melts in your mouth

• Combines the best of cream cheese bars and buttery crumb cake

• Made with pantry staples like yellow cake mix

• Crowd-pleasing for holidays, birthdays, and brunch

• Can be customized with nuts or flavored extracts

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Cake Base:

• Yellow cake mix (1 box) – A quick and easy foundation that brings buttery flavor and a fluffy texture.

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted) – Adds richness and moisture to the base.

• Eggs (3 large) – Provide structure and help bind the cake mix into a smooth batter.

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened) – Creates a luscious, tangy middle layer similar to cheesecake.

• Granulated sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cream cheese for a balanced filling.

• Eggs (2 large) – Give structure and silkiness to the cream cheese layer.

• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Adds warm, sweet flavor that complements the richness.

For the Streusel Topping:

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted) – Helps form a buttery, golden topping.

• Yellow cake mix (1 box) – Doubles as a crumble topping when combined with butter.

• Chopped pecans or walnuts (½ cup, optional) – Add a toasty crunch and nutty depth.

Tips and Tricks

• Use room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest filling.

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping for a warm spice note.

• For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel or glaze after baking.

• Don’t overbake—this cake is meant to be gooey in the center.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Lover’s Version: Use chocolate cake mix and swirl in mini chocolate chips.

• Lemon Cream Cheese Crack Cake: Swap yellow cake mix for lemon and add lemon zest to the cream cheese layer.

• Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts in the topping without losing flavor or texture.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a hot cup of coffee or espresso

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

• Add a side of fresh berries for contrast

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days

• Refrigerator: Keeps well for 5–6 days

• Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months

  • Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy chilled or slightly warmed

Popular Questions

Why is it called Crack Cake?
Because it’s so good, it’s hard to stop at one bite—like it’s addictive!

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely. White, butter pecan, or even spice cake mix all work beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and it actually tastes better the next day after chilling overnight!

Crack Cake

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 servings 1x

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Description

Best Ever Crack Cake – A sinfully delicious mashup of buttery cake, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy streusel! Irresistibly rich, gooey, and guaranteed to vanish fast

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box yellow cake mix

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• 3 large eggs

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 box yellow cake mix

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cake Base

• In a bowl, combine:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix

  • ½ cup melted butter

  • 3 large eggs

• Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

• Spread the batter into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

• In a separate bowl, beat together:

  • 8 oz softened cream cheese

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

• Add in 2 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated.

• Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

• In a clean bowl, stir together:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix

  • ½ cup melted butter

  • ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

• Mix until a crumbly topping forms.

• Sprinkle over the cream cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.

• The center may have a slight jiggle—it will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

• Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing.

• Serve at room temperature or chilled for extra firmness.

Notes

• This cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert for entertaining or gifting.

• Slice with a sharp knife and wipe between cuts for the cleanest pieces.

• It’s a great base for experimenting—try adding fruit preserves or chocolate chips for new twists.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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