Yes, You Can Make A Cake Using Only Half A Box Of Cake Mix. Here's How

Boxed cake mix is one of those convenience foods that you may not have yet realized is even more adaptable across use cases. Like the frozen pizza you can snap in half to make just a few slices at a time, so, too, can those prepackaged cake sizes be reduced. And, unlike some more elaborate projects, all you need to do to shrink them is to cut the ingredients in half.

This easy method does not apply to all, or even most baked good preparations — but boxed cake mix is pre-calibrated and typically only calls for a few extra ingredients, so the formula is particularly straightforward. You can even still give your boxed mix a homemade touch with a liquid swap, you'll just do so at a 50% proportion. You'll just ultimately pour the batter into one 8- or 9-inch tin instead of doubling them or using larger dimensions all together. The final product is just a little more manageably sized for when those cake whims arrive and you aren't expecting many extra sweet teeth to join in the indulgence.

A standard cake mix requires portions of water and oil that are easy enough to measure by half. The powdered mix itself can also be handily divided with a food scale or measuring cups. But instructions will also often call for three eggs, which makes resizing moderately more challenging. Some brands may provide the option to use four egg whites instead, or even something like applesauce, which would all be easier to divide.

Should you find yourself navigating the likely three egg scenario, you'll want to crack 'em into their own bowl, whisk to combine, and then measure the appropriate portion. A food scale would also make this easier, but tablespoons will do in a pinch. You should still be able to follow the manufacturer's recommended bake time and temperature, as they should list those metrics for when you've made the full amount but have prepared two separate layers. Boxed cake upgrades abound for whatever fraction you're preparing.