Beef

No this is not about deliciously yummy dead cows- having said that the steaks on St Valentine's day were amazing- I really have an issue with people who apologize for using a mix. Know that if you bring something that you have created from a mix to eny event that I attend, you get FULL CREDIT. Thank you so much for what ever it is that you were so willing to take the time and make, when I know that you could have bought a box off a shelf. I love the fact that you brought something from your home to share. So next time you begin to make excuses for opening a box in the pursuit of making a contribution to the well being another individual, stop. Please recognize that it truly is the thought that counts, and if you didn't spike the item with fecal matter (The Help/) or put methyl blue in the item I know that it was out of love.
Nonetheless, I realize sometimes that the mix can be a bit lack luster. So turn up the Wow factor with this simple recipe from one of the greatest cooks I know. Or experiment with adding an extra extract, or substituting a different liquid. Add Jello to change the color and flavor. The possibilities are endless; thus, the cookbook franchise on the whole mix thing (one of my least favorite cookbooks ever). Hopefully, all the love and time you put into your creation comes across in the manner you were hoping for, and if not, at least you did something instead of being a spectator in your own story.
Grandma Talley's Kahlua Cake- Yes it uses real liquor. If you are uncomfortable replace the liquid with juice or water (milk will mute the chocolate flavor) and add 1 tsp coffee flavor or your own favorite undertone for chocolate-fruity, nutty, or deep. Having said that Grandma Talley served this to us when we were young and I don't recall any "hard" flavor as chemically it should bake off.
Preheat Oven to 350 great and dust 10 in bundt with cocoa powder for easier release.
1 chocolate cake mix-any variation but no pudding int he mix.
1 box instant chocolate pudding
1/2 c. oil
3 eggs
1/2 c. Kahlua
1 c. or 8 oz sour cream
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 package chocolate chips-we always use semi-sweet

Combine everything but the chocolate chips in a big bowl and mix until just combined no dry streaks, don't beat this one to death the thick crumb is more like a coffee cake. Pour into prepared bundt pan and bake for 45-55 min. until cake springs back when you press it or use the toothpick test don't open oven early. Cool for 10 min, then run a butter knife around it to loosen the edges.flip onto serving plate, and dust with lots of powdered sugar. If you prefer put a potted plant in the center and serve to hunger family members.
This is a favorite from my childhood. Smile with each bite and savour the chocolatey goodness of a freakin' mix.
Faithfully,
Mrs. Brownie