7 Cake Mix Flavors We’re Glad Are Gone And 9 Retro Picks We’d Love to Bake Again

Cake mix has been a pantry staple for generations, helping home bakers whip up sweet treats without the fuss. Over the years, though, some flavors came along that were… let’s just say more curious than delicious. While a few boxed blends deserved to disappear, others deserve a second chance in the spotlight. Let’s dig into 7 discontinued cake mix flavors we’re not missing, followed by 9 retro varieties we’d happily bake again.

1. Soda Pop Cake Mix

Soda Pop Cake Mix once promised a fizzy delight reminiscent of your favorite sodas like Orange Crush or Root Beer. Much to the disappointment of young bakers expecting a unique treat, the cakes often emerged overly sweet, with a synthetic aftertaste. The novelty quickly wore off as palates matured and demanded more authentic flavors. This flavor became a reminder that not every soda should inspire a cake. Fun fact: these mixes were often marketed during the soda craze, hoping to capitalize on the love for fizzy drinks.

2. Cotton Candy Cake Mix

The Cotton Candy Cake Mix was aimed at children’s birthday parties but missed the mark with its overpowering sweetness. Parents quickly found their kids bouncing off the walls after a slice. The flavor, reminiscent of toothpaste mingled with sugar, offered an odd experience for the taste buds. Although visually appealing, the cake was better left in its box. It served as a sweet lesson in why some fairground treats should remain just that. Did you know? This mix was inspired by the 1950s carnival treats resurgence.

3. Watermelon Cake Mix

Watermelon Cake Mix promised a summery escape but delivered artificial disappointment. The bright green and pink colors lured in curious bakers, but the flavor resembled a Jolly Rancher gone rogue. It lacked the refreshing quality one hopes for in watermelon-themed treats, instead offering a cloying sweetness. This flavor became a cautionary tale for overly ambitious cake experiments. Interestingly, its release coincided with a trend of ‘fun’ flavored products in the 1990s, which quickly faded into obscurity.

4. Birthday Cake With Sprinkles Inside

Birthday Cake With Sprinkles Inside sounded like a celebration in a box. However, the reality was less festive. As the cake baked, the vibrant sprinkles melted into unappealing hues, turning the cake into a pastel mess. Taste-wise, the sugar overload was its downfall, disappointing those seeking a delightful surprise. This mix illustrated that sometimes, less is more. Did you know? The concept of ‘sprinkles inside’ cakes originated in the 1980s as a way to add visual excitement to plain cakes.

5. Bubble Gum Cake Mix

Bubble Gum Cake Mix aimed to marry whimsy with dessert by capturing the essence of bubblegum in cake form. Unfortunately, it ended up tasting like an old piece of gum left under a desk. Children might have enjoyed a slice, but it failed to win over more discerning palates. The idea was fun in theory but lacked execution in reality. A forgotten relic of quirky 1990s baking trends, this mix serves as a reminder that not all candy flavors belong in cake. Fun fact: its introduction coincided with a spike in novelty baking products.

6. Blue Raspberry Cake Mix

Blue Raspberry Cake Mix was as visually striking as it was controversial. The neon blue hue screamed artificial, and the flavor did nothing to dispute that. Its overly tangy taste didn’t sit well with the traditional cake lovers. While it caught the eye of adventurous bakers, it quickly fell out of favor due to its lack of broad appeal. Did you know? Blue raspberry’s origin traces back to the 1970s as a way to offer a new berry flavor for products when real blue raspberries didn’t exist!

7. Chocolate Bacon Cake Mix

Chocolate Bacon Cake Mix tried to tap into the bacon craze but met with mixed reviews. The idea of marrying sweet chocolate with savory bacon was intriguing but didn’t translate well in cake form. The artificial bacon bits lent a greasy texture, overshadowing the rich chocolate. This flavor was an experiment in daring culinary trends that didn’t quite hit the mark. Discovering bacon in desserts was a culinary adventure for the brave, yet this mix proved that some trends are better left separate.

8. Butter Pecan

Butter Pecan is a timeless delight, offering a rich and nutty flavor that resonates with those who appreciate a classic. Its buttery essence and crunchy pecan pieces make it an elegant choice for gatherings. Pair it with a brown sugar glaze or whipped cream frosting for an added touch of indulgence. This mix’s charm lies in its simplicity and ability to evoke nostalgia. Interestingly, butter pecan has been a favorite since the early days of boxed cake mixes, renowned for its comforting taste and versatility in dessert pairings.

9. Cherry Chip

Cherry Chip brings back memories of joyful celebrations with its vibrant pink cherry bits scattered throughout each bite. This flavor offers the perfect balance of sweetness and nostalgia, making it a long-lost favorite for many. The cake’s tender crumb pairs beautifully with a light, whipped frosting, allowing the cherry essence to shine. Did you know? Cherry chip cake was a hit in the mid-20th century, often featured in advertisements with smiling families gathered around a table. A true classic deserving of a comeback in today’s kitchens.

10. Lemon Supreme

Lemon Supreme is the embodiment of sunshine in a cake pan. Its zesty, fresh flavor profile invigorates the senses, making it a perfect choice for spring and summer occasions. The delicate crumb and vibrant lemon flavor harmonize beautifully with a light glaze or fluffy frosting. This mix’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of a sunny day. Interestingly, lemon cakes have historical roots stretching back centuries, valued for their refreshing quality and versatility in pairings with fruits and herbs.

11. Spice Cake

Spice Cake is a warm embrace in dessert form, filled with the inviting aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Ideal for cozy autumn gatherings, it pairs exquisitely with cream cheese frosting. The cake’s deep, spiced notes invite gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Originally popularized in the 19th century, spice cakes have been a staple in holiday celebrations, revered for their comforting flavors. Today, this cake mix continues to be cherished for its timeless appeal and ability to evoke heartwarming family memories with each bite.

12. Devil’s Food

Devil’s Food Cake stands as the epitome of chocolate indulgence, with its dark, rich flavor that has enchanted cake lovers for generations. This mix promises a moist, luscious texture that satisfies even the deepest chocolate cravings. Perfect for any celebration, it pairs wonderfully with a silky chocolate ganache or classic buttercream. Legend has it, the name ‘Devil’s Food’ was coined in the early 1900s to describe its decadent nature, a sinful counterpart to the lighter angel food cake. A truly timeless choice for chocolate aficionados.

13. Marble Cake

Marble Cake is the best of both worlds, harmoniously blending vanilla and chocolate into a swirling masterpiece. Each slice offers a delightful contrast of flavors, perfect for those who can’t decide between the two. The marbled effect not only pleases the eye but excites the palate. Historically, marble cakes have been around since the 19th century, a testament to their lasting popularity. Pair it with a simple glaze or whipped topping, and you have a versatile cake suitable for any occasion, delighting both young and old alike.

14. Carrot Cake Mix

Carrot Cake Mix is beloved for its perfect blend of spices and moist texture, offering a taste that feels both homespun and gourmet. The mix captures the classic flavors without the labor-intensive shredding of fresh carrots. Pair it with a luscious cream cheese frosting to enhance its rich flavor. Carrot cakes date back to medieval times when sugar was scarce, and sweet vegetables were used in baking. Today, it remains a favorite for its unique combination of flavors and textures, making it a staple in celebrations worldwide.

15. Strawberry Supreme

Strawberry Supreme captures the essence of a summer day, offering a burst of strawberry flavor in every bite. Its pretty pink hue and delightful sweetness make it a hit at parties and bake sales. The cake pairs perfectly with a simple whipped cream or vanilla frosting, accentuating its fruity notes. This mix hearkens back to the 1950s when strawberry desserts were all the rage. Today, it remains a symbol of retro charm, inviting bakers to revisit a classic that never truly went out of style. Perfect for strawberry lovers everywhere.

16. Banana Supreme

Banana Supreme Cake Mix delights with its mellow, moist texture and gentle banana flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with cream cheese or vanilla frosting, it satisfies those craving a comfort dessert. This mix is reminiscent of banana breads and cakes that have been family favorites for generations. Did you know? The origins of banana bread trace back to the 1930s during the Great Depression, when nothing went to waste, and overripe bananas found new life in baked goods.