When it comes to baking, convenience is key, and Duncan Hines French Vanilla cake mix offers a delightful starting point for countless delicious desserts.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this versatile mix makes it easy to create a variety of sweet treats with minimal effort. From moist cakes and fluffy cupcakes to decadent cookie bars and creative desserts, the possibilities are endless.
In this blog post, we’ll explore over 25 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the delightful flavor of French vanilla, inspiring you to get creative in the kitchen.
Each recipe is designed to bring joy and sweetness to your table, perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself to something delicious.
Get ready to whip up some magic with Duncan Hines French Vanilla cake mix!
25+ Irresistible Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix Recipes
With 25+ delicious recipes at your fingertips, the Duncan Hines French Vanilla cake mix proves to be more than just a simple cake base. It’s a canvas for your creativity, allowing you to whip up a range of delectable treats that can please any palate.
From the classic comfort of a vanilla cake to innovative desserts like cookie cakes and fruity trifles, there’s a recipe here for every occasion.
So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the baking adventures begin!
Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging in a sweet treat at home, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring smiles all around. Happy baking!
Vanilla Almond Bundt Cake
This Vanilla Almond Bundt Cake is a luscious twist on the classic vanilla flavor, infused with the nutty richness of almond extract. It’s perfect for celebrations or a cozy afternoon tea. The cake’s moist texture pairs beautifully with a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch Bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, milk, eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
This Vanilla Almond Bundt Cake is not only visually stunning but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. The combination of vanilla and almond creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, this cake is a testament to the ease and deliciousness of baking with Duncan Hines French Vanilla cake mix.
French Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Indulge in these fluffy French Vanilla Cupcakes topped with rich buttercream frosting. These cupcakes are light and airy, making them an excellent choice for birthdays, parties, or any festive occasion. The simple recipe ensures that you can whip up a batch quickly, with a final touch that can be customized to match any celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles or decorations of choice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the buttercream frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add milk and vanilla extract until you reach your desired consistency.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes and top with sprinkles or decorations as desired.
These French Vanilla Cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser and a delightful addition to any dessert table. The lightness of the cake mix combined with the creamy buttercream makes for a perfect bite. They are easy to make and fun to decorate, allowing you to customize them for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy and satisfaction.
French Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake
This French Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake is a delightful fusion of classic vanilla flavor and chocolate goodness. The addition of chocolate chips provides bursts of sweetness in every bite, making this cake an instant favorite among chocolate lovers. It’s perfect for a casual family dessert or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
The French Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake is a delightful combination of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This easy-to-make cake brings together the comforting tastes of vanilla and chocolate, creating a treat that’s both nostalgic and delicious. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this cake showcases how versatile Duncan Hines French Vanilla cake mix can be in creating memorable desserts. Enjoy it on its own or elevate it with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent experience!
French Vanilla Berry Trifle
This French Vanilla Berry Trifle is a show-stopping dessert that layers moist vanilla cake, whipped cream, and fresh berries. It’s a visually stunning and delectable treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. The light and airy textures make it a refreshing choice, and it can be made in advance for easy serving.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Optional: mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut each cake into cubes.
- In a large trifle bowl or individual cups, layer the cake cubes, whipped cream, and mixed berries. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and a few berries on top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
The French Vanilla Berry Trifle is not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. This layered dessert combines the lightness of vanilla cake with the freshness of berries, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for entertaining, as it can be made ahead of time and easily served. Whether it’s a family gathering or a summer barbecue, this trifle is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at your dessert table!
French Vanilla Pumpkin Spice Cake
This French Vanilla Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin desserts. Combining the lightness of French vanilla cake mix with the warm spices of pumpkin makes for a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving celebrations. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates this cake to a whole new level of indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, water, vegetable oil, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
The French Vanilla Pumpkin Spice Cake is a warm and comforting dessert that beautifully combines the classic flavors of vanilla and pumpkin. This cake is incredibly moist and rich, thanks to the pumpkin puree, making it a perfect addition to your fall dessert repertoire. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy touch that complements the spiced cake perfectly. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, this cake is sure to bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts.
French Vanilla Lemon Poke Cake
This French Vanilla Lemon Poke Cake is a refreshing and tangy dessert that’s ideal for warm-weather gatherings. The poke cake technique allows the lemon-flavored glaze to soak into the cake, creating a moist and flavorful treat. Topped with whipped cream and lemon zest, this cake is both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
- Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes.
- While the cake is cooling, mix together the lemon juice and powdered sugar in a bowl to create a glaze.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake. Pour the lemon glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely, then top with whipped cream and garnish with lemon zest.
The French Vanilla Lemon Poke Cake is a delightful burst of flavor that is sure to brighten up any occasion. The combination of the sweet vanilla cake with the tangy lemon glaze creates a perfect balance that’s refreshing and satisfying. This dessert is not only easy to make but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home. The lemon poke cake is a wonderful reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
French Vanilla Strawberry Shortcake
This French Vanilla Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert reimagined with the ease of cake mix. Featuring layers of moist vanilla cake, sweetened strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings and special occasions. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh berries while celebrating the flavors of the season.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the strawberries)
- 2 cups whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
- Optional: mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar in a bowl. Allow them to sit for about 15-20 minutes until they release their juices.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Top with half of the strawberries and half of the whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining strawberries and whipped cream.
- Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
This French Vanilla Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful celebration of summer flavors. The lightness of the vanilla cake pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy strawberries, while the whipped cream adds a fluffy finish. This recipe is not only simple to make but also visually stunning, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or special occasions. Whether served at a birthday party or a family picnic, this shortcake will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
French Vanilla Chocolate Marble Cake
The French Vanilla Chocolate Marble Cake combines the classic flavors of vanilla and chocolate in a stunning marbled effect. This cake is not only visually appealing but also delivers a rich and moist texture that is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover. It’s a perfect dessert for birthdays, celebrations, or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for optional frosting)
- 1/4 cup milk (for optional frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for optional frosting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder and granulated sugar. Take half of the cake batter and add it to the cocoa mixture, stirring until combined.
- Pour half of the vanilla batter into the prepared baking pan. Add spoonfuls of the chocolate batter on top, then pour the remaining vanilla batter over it. Swirl the two batters together with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- For optional frosting, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Frost the cooled cake if desired.
The French Vanilla Chocolate Marble Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings joy to any dessert table. The combination of rich chocolate and light vanilla creates a perfect balance, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with frosting, this cake is versatile enough for any occasion. It’s a wonderful choice for celebrations or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home, reminding us of the joy of baking with Duncan Hines cake mix!
French Vanilla Funfetti Cake
This French Vanilla Funfetti Cake is a colorful and joyful dessert that brings smiles to everyone. The cake mix is infused with colorful sprinkles, creating a festive look that’s perfect for birthdays and celebrations. Topped with a creamy vanilla frosting, this cake is both fun and delicious, making it a hit among kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cups butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cakes are cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Garnish with additional sprinkles.
The French Vanilla Funfetti Cake is a delightful and cheerful dessert that is sure to bring joy to any celebration. Its colorful sprinkles add a festive touch, while the moist vanilla cake makes it a delicious treat. This cake is not only easy to make but also allows for creativity in decorating, making it a fun activity to share with family or friends. Perfect for birthdays or any festive gathering, this cake will create sweet memories and delicious smiles all around!
French Vanilla Banana Bread Cake
This French Vanilla Banana Bread Cake is a wonderful twist on traditional banana bread. The cake mix adds a light, fluffy texture while the ripe bananas contribute moisture and natural sweetness. Topped with a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack with coffee. It’s an excellent way to use up overripe bananas while satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, mashed bananas, vegetable oil, water, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the optional glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.
The French Vanilla Banana Bread Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the beloved banana bread and the lightness of vanilla cake. Its moist texture and sweet banana flavor make it a comforting treat for any time of day. Whether served warm for breakfast or as a dessert with glaze, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose overripe bananas while indulging in a delicious dessert that everyone will love!
French Vanilla Coconut Cream Cake
This French Vanilla Coconut Cream Cake is a tropical delight that combines the rich flavor of coconut with the lightness of vanilla cake. Perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to bring a taste of the tropics, this cake is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Topped with whipped cream and shredded coconut, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1 cup coconut milk (instead of water)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, for the batter)
- For the Topping:
- 2 cups whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
- 1 cup shredded coconut (toasted, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, coconut milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and coconut extract. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost the top of one layer with whipped cream, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Garnish with toasted shredded coconut.
The French Vanilla Coconut Cream Cake is a delightful escape to a tropical paradise. Its moist, fluffy texture combined with the rich coconut flavor creates a heavenly dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. The whipped cream topping and toasted coconut add a beautiful finishing touch, making it an eye-catching centerpiece. This cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them with a taste of summer, no matter the season!
French Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
This French Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake is a delicious combination of soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies and moist vanilla cake. It’s the perfect dessert for cookie lovers who want something a little different! Topped with a rich chocolate frosting, this cake is a delightful indulgence that’s sure to please everyone at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines French Vanilla Cake Mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and cake mix until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk, until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the chocolate frosting over the top and serve.
The French Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the best of both worlds—soft vanilla cake and gooey chocolate chip cookies. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a special dessert to enjoy at home. With its rich chocolate frosting and chocolate chip goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe not only satisfies cravings for cookies but also adds a fun twist to traditional cake, making it a unique and delicious dessert!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
