Why You’ll Love This Ugly Cake Recipe
When you take a bite of Ugly Cake, you’ll instantly understand why it’s a beloved dessert in many homes. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that makes every forkful delightful.
The rich cream cheese layer contrasts beautifully with the moist cake base, creating a comforting indulgence. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which means I can whip it up even on busy days.
The best part? It’s not about looks; it’s about taste. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, Ugly Cake always brings a smile. Trust me, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients of Ugly Cake
When it comes to making Ugly Cake, the ingredients are simple and straightforward, yet they come together to create something incredibly delicious. You don’t need to be a baking expert to pull this off.
In fact, it’s such an easy recipe that even if you accidentally spill half the flour on the floor (not that I’ve ever done that), you can still end up with a fantastic dessert. So, let’s gather what you need to get started on this delightful treat.
Ingredients for Ugly Cake:
- 1 box cake mix (any kind)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 box powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (for the second part)
- 2 eggs (for the second part)
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. The cake mix is super versatile, meaning you can use your favorite flavor. Chocolate, vanilla, or even red velvet – the choice is yours!
Just imagine the possibilities. And don’t skimp on the cream cheese; it’s the magic ingredient that gives Ugly Cake its signature rich and creamy layer.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try adding a splash of vanilla extract or some chocolate chips for an extra twist. But remember, this cake is all about simplicity and comfort, so keep it fun and easy.
After all, who needs perfection when you have a deliciously imperfect dessert that tastes so good?
How to Make Ugly Cake

Making Ugly Cake is a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and it all starts with the first part of the recipe. Grab that 1 box of cake mix (any kind you fancy) and empty it into a mixing bowl. Next, you’ll want to add in 1/2 cup of melted butter and 1 egg.
Now, this is where the magic begins. Mix it all up until it’s well combined and looks like a thick, buttery batter. It mightn’t look glamorous yet, but don’t worry, it’s about to become something special.
Once you’ve got that mixture just right, grease and flour a 9×13 pan – this step is essential, trust me, you don’t want your cake to stick like a stubborn toddler to a favorite toy. Press that cake mix blend evenly into the bottom of the pan. The base is ready; now let’s move on to the creamy goodness!
For the second part, you’ll need to whip out that 8-ounce package of cream cheese. Make sure it’s softened, so it blends smoothly. In a bowl, cream the cream cheese until it’s fluffy.
Then, add in the other 1/2 cup of melted butter along with 2 eggs and the entire box of powdered sugar. This is where the cake gets its rich, sweet character. Mix it all together until it’s a decadent, creamy mixture—just try not to eat it straight from the bowl (though I won’t judge if you do).
Once it’s well blended, pour this luscious cream cheese mixture over the first layer in the pan. Spread it out gently to cover the cake mix layer completely. Now, pop that beauty into a preheated oven at 300°F and let it bake for about an hour.
The aroma will fill your kitchen and may even lure in unsuspecting family members, curious about what’s cooking.
And there you have it! After an hour, you’ll want to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, congratulations—you’ve just made Ugly Cake!
Let it cool for a bit before slicing into it. Remember, it mightn’t win any beauty contests, but its taste is truly to die for. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Ugly Cake Substitutions & Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the delightful process of making Ugly Cake, let’s explore some fun substitutions and variations to customize your creation.
For a chocolate twist, swap the cake mix for chocolate cake mix. If you want a fruity flair, mix in some mashed bananas or applesauce.
You can also replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut to change the flavor profile.
Don’t forget to top with your favorite nuts or sprinkles for added texture. The possibilities are endless, so have fun making it your own!
Additional Tips & Notes
Although baking can sometimes feel intimidating, a few simple tips can help you achieve the best Ugly Cake possible.
First, make sure your butter is melted but not too hot; this keeps your batter smooth. I recommend using room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
When mixing, don’t overdo it—just combine until smooth. Remember to keep an eye on your cake while baking; ovens can vary, so check for doneness a bit early.
Finally, don’t fret about the appearance; it’s meant to be rustic! Enjoy the process, and I’m sure you’ll create a delicious treat that everyone will love.