Yes, there are several brands that make sugar free cake mixes that are suitable for people with diabetes or others who want to limit sugar intake. Some of the most popular options include:
- Duncan Hines Sugar Free Cake Mix
- Pillsbury Sugar Free Cake Mix
- Betty Crocker Sugar Free Cake Mix
- Mrs. Smith’s Sugar Free Cake Mix
- Simple Mills Almond Flour Baking Mix
These mixes use sugar substitutes like Splenda or stevia to sweeten the cake without adding sugar. Many people find they provide a tasty, low-carb cake option. Some brands also offer additional sugar free frosting and decorating options to complete the cake.
What ingredients are in sugar free cake mixes?
Sugar free cake mixes are made with many of the same ingredients as regular cake mixes, minus the added sugar. Common ingredients include:
- Low-calorie sugar substitute like sucralose, stevia, or aspartame
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder and baking soda
- Salt
- Vegetable oil
- Emulsifiers
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Food coloring (in some)
They may also contain milk, eggs, or other ingredients depending on the specific recipe. The sugar alcohol erythritol is used in some sugar free mixes. Simple Mills uses almond flour to make their mix gluten-free.
Always check the nutrition label and ingredients list for specifics on which sweeteners and other components are used in a particular brand’s sugar free cake mix.
How do sugar free cake mixes taste?
The taste of sugar free cake mixes varies by brand. Many people find they provide a pretty comparable taste and texture to regular cake mixes. The sweetness may be a bit different than what you expect from normal sugar, but companies have gotten better at formulating mixes with sugar substitutes that mimic regular sugar well.
Some find mixes made with stevia have a mild aftertaste. Splenda or sucralose-based mixes tend to be closest to traditional sugar taste. Those made with sugar alcohols like erythritol will have a cooling effect. Simple Mills with almond flour has a nuttier taste.
You may need to try a few brands to find your favorite taste and texture, as preferences vary by individual. Many bakers say they are very happy with sugar free mixes after getting the ratios of mix to oil and eggs right. Adding chocolate chips or frosting also improves sweetness and flavor.
What do nutritionists say about sugar free cake mixes?
Many nutrition experts support the use of sugar free cake mixes in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet:
- They remove calories, added sugars, and carbohydrates compared to regular mixes.
- The artificial sweeteners used do not spike blood sugar levels.
- They allow inclusion of treats in a diabetic or low-carb diet when consumed occasionally.
- Making sweets with sugar free mixes promotes baking at home rather than buying processed desserts high in sugar and fat.
Potential downsides cited by some nutritionists include:
- They are still highly processed convenience foods.
- Sweeteners may maintain taste for sweets and sugar cravings.
- There are concerns about effects of some sweeteners on gut bacteria.
- They should be an occasional treat food, not everyday consumption.
Overall, if baking an occasional cake using a sugar free mix allows you to follow your medical nutrition plan or simply save calories and sugar, most nutrition experts would recommend it over more highly processed convenience desserts. Moderation and portion control are still important.
Does the texture and moisture differ in sugar free cake mixes?
Most bakers find the texture of cakes made with sugar free cake mixes to be quite close to the regular full sugar versions. Companies have worked hard at perfecting recipes with sugar substitutes that mimic traditional sugar cakes well when it comes to density, softness, and moisture.
There are a few differences some notice:
- Cakes may dome a little more in the center without the weight of sugar.
- Edges and tops may get overly brown if not carefully monitored.
- Batter may be slightly thicker. An extra egg or splash of milk can thin it out.
- They may be lighter and airier due to fewer carbs.
- Cool completely before frosting so crumb is firm.
You may need to test oven temperatures and baking times to get the ideal texture for your preferences. Reducing temperature 25 degrees lower can help prevent over-browning. In general, sugar free cake mix recipes produce excellent results very similar to regular cakes.
Do you need to make any substitutions when baking with sugar free cake mixes?
Most sugar free cake mixes can be used in place of regular mixes without any adjustments. A few substitutions to consider for optimal results:
- Add an extra egg or two for moisture and structure.
- Use butter instead of oil for added moisture and richness.
- Substitute milk for water for a more tender crumb.
- Increase vanilla or almond extracts to boost flavor.
- Add citrus zests for a fresh flavor note.
- Fold in a tablespoon of flour if batter seems too thin.
- Add a couple tablespoons cocoa powder for chocolate flavor in a vanilla mix.
The goal is to provide enough liquid for the required hydration but have a thick enough batter to give the cake structure to rise properly and form a good crumb. Experiment to get the perfect consistency and flavors you prefer.
What are some good recipes using sugar free cake mixes?
You can make many classic cake recipes using sugar free cake mixes with great results:
Basic Sugar Free Cakes
- Chocolate cake
- Vanilla cake
- Spice cake
- Lemon cake
- Strawberry cake
- Carrot cake
- Red velvet cake
- Funfetti cake
Sugar Free Layer Cakes
- Birthday cake
- Wedding cake
- Groom’s cake
- Baby shower cake
- Graduation cake
Sugar Free Cupcakes
- Chocolate cupcakes
- Vanilla cupcakes
- Spice cupcakes
- Caramel cupcakes
- Lemon cupcakes
- Strawberry cupcakes
Sugar Free Cake Recipes
- Pumpkin cake roll
- Boston cream cake
- Tres leches cake
- Poke cake
- Upside down cake
- Ice cream cake
- Pound cake
Sugar Free Bundt Cakes
- Lemon glazed bundt cake
- Chocolate marble bundt cake
- Pumpkin spice bundt cake
- Strawberry swirl bundt cake
Get creative with adding nuts, fruits, extracts, spices, and more to make any flavor sugar free cake imaginable!
What kind of pans can you use to bake sugar free cake mixes?
Sugar free cake mixes can be baked in just about any type of cake pan:
- Round cake pans (2 for layer cakes)
- Square cake pans
- Rectangular sheet cake pans
- Loaf pans
- Muffin tins (for cupcakes)
- Angel food cake pans
- Bundt pans
- Tube pans
Be sure to grease pans well with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Parchment paper liners are also an easy option for quick release.
Glazed glass, metal, and ceramic pans all work well for even browning. Avoid anything with a dark non-stick coating as it may over-brown the edges. Follow package directions for ideal pan size and baking temperature.
Can you make frosted cakes using sugar free cake mixes?
Absolutely! Sugar free cake mixes pair beautifully with frosting to make frosted layer cakes, cupcakes, sheet cakes and any other frosted creations. You have a couple options for sugar free frosting:
Prepared Sugar Free Frosting
Many brands that offer sugar free cake mixes also sell ready-made frosting using sugar substitutes. These come in chocolate, vanilla, cream cheese and other flavors. They spread easily and give a sweet topping.
Make Your Own Frosting
For ultimate control over ingredients and flavors, make homemade frosting sweetened with your preferred sugar substitute. Whip up buttercream, cream cheese frosting, ganache and more. You can also add berries, nuts, coconut and extracts.
Use the same amount of sugar substitute as a regular recipe calls for sugar. Add a teaspoon at a time if needed for ideal sweetness. Frost generously between cake layers and on the top for a picture-perfect cake.
What occasions are sugar free cake mixes good for?
Sugar free cake mixes can be used for almost any cake-worthy celebration or get-together! Here are some fun occasions to bake a sugar free cake for:
- Birthdays
- Anniversaries
- Weddings
- Bridal showers
- Baby showers
- Graduations
- Retirement parties
- Dinner parties
- Potlucks
- Bake sales
- Office parties
- Holiday parties
Decorate your sugar free cake masterpiece with frosting, berries, sprinkles, candies and other topping to match the theme or occasion. Write sweet messages with sugar free frosting or decorate with edible flowers.
Offering a sugar free cake option shows your care and inclusiveness of guests with dietary needs or restrictions. The whole crowd can celebrate together and enjoy cake!
Where can you find and purchase sugar free cake mixes?
Sugar free cake mixes are getting easier to find in stores and online. Here are some places to buy them:
Grocery Stores
Look on the baking aisle or with specialty dietary foods. More stores now carry at least one or two common brands of sugar free cake mixes.
Big Box Stores
Retailers like Walmart, Target, Sam’s Club, Costco and BJ’s Wholesale often have large displays of Pillsbury, Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines sugar free cake mixes.
Online
You can browse a wide range of sugar free cake mix brands and flavors on Amazon, Walmart.com, Target.com, Vitacost.com, Netrition.com and sites that specialize in low carb and diabetic baking products. These sites also offer sugar free frosting and cake decorations.
Specialty Stores
Some health food stores, gluten free bakeries and diabetic supply stores sell niche brands of sugar free and alternative flour cake mixes not found in regular stores. These cater to food allergies and other medical diets.
Check labels to verify no sugar added claims and find the best value on bulk cases of your favorite mixes. Clip coupons and watch for sales too!
Conclusion
Sugar free cake mixes provide a delicious way to still enjoy the treats you love while limiting sugar, carbs, and calories. Leading brands like Duncan Hines, Pillsbury and Betty Crocker make high quality mixes using sweeteners like Splenda that taste great. With the right pan prep and baking adjustments, you can whip up perfect cakes in any flavor. Using sugar free mixes allows you to bake for holidays, parties and celebrations so no one has to miss out. Look for wide availability online and in stores. With the many cake recipe options, there is definitely a perfect sugar free mix and creation for your needs.
