Here are six easy ways to upgrade a basic cake mix. Add an Extra Egg. If you only use one tip from this story, this one should be it. ... Add Milk, Coffee, or Soda. ... Use Butter Instead of Oil. ... Add Instant Pudding. ... Up the Flavor with an Extract or Citrus Zest. ... Top the Cake with Homemade Frosting. Sep 19, 2022