How to Make a Box Cake in the Instant Pot

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The Magic of Instant Pot Baking

I’ve always loved finding new and clever ways to use my kitchen gadgets, and when I discovered that I could make a delicious box cake in my Instant Pot, I was thrilled. It’s such a cool trick, especially on those hot days when the last thing I want to do is heat up my whole kitchen by turning on the oven. Baking a cake in an Instant Pot is super simple, and the result is incredibly moist and tasty, with hardly any effort. So, let me walk you through how to transform a simple box cake mix into a scrumptious dessert using your Instant Pot. Trust me, it’s going to be a game-changer for your baking routine!

Why Bake a Cake in an Instant Pot?

You might be wondering, why bake a cake in an Instant Pot when you can just use an oven? Well, there are a few reasons:

1. Energy Efficiency: The Instant Pot uses less energy than an oven.
2. Heat Management: It doesn’t heat up your kitchen like an oven does.
3. Moisture Retention: It keeps your cake moist, which is especially great for box cakes that can sometimes turn out dry.

The Steps to Making a Box Cake in an Instant Pot

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of how to make a box cake in an Instant Pot.

Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

You’ll need a box cake mix of your choice, the ingredients listed on the box, a 7-inch springform pan that fits in your Instant Pot, and a trivet with handles.

Prepare the Cake Mix

Follow the instructions on the box to prepare the cake mix. This usually involves combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water.

Prepare the Pan

Grease your springform pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking. Then, pour the cake batter into the pan.

Prepare the Instant Pot

Pour a cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot. Then, place the trivet inside. The handles should be sticking up.

Cook the Cake

Place the pan on the trivet in the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer according to the box instructions.

Release the Pressure and Cool the Cake

Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Remove the lid and use the trivet handles to lift the pan out of the pot. Let the cake cool before removing it from the pan.

Frost and Serve

Once the cake is cool, frost it as desired and serve. Enjoy your moist, delicious box cake made in the Instant Pot!

Final Thoughts

Baking a cake in an Instant Pot might seem unconventional, but it’s a testament to the versatility of this beloved kitchen gadget. Ideal for those seeking convenience without sacrificing quality, this method transforms a simple box cake mix into a delectable dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re avoiding the oven’s heat in summer or simply experimenting with new baking methods, the Instant Pot offers a surprisingly effective way to bake cakes that are moist, fluffy, and full of flavor.