Let me share my absolute favorite dessert ever this Better Than ANYTHING Cake. I discovered this recipe years ago and trust me it lives up to its name. Picture the most decadent devil's food cake soaked with caramel and sweetened condensed milk topped with clouds of cool whip and crunchy Heath bits. It's pure dessert heaven.
Why This Cake is Pure Magic
What makes this cake really special is how simple it is to make while tasting like you spent hours in the kitchen. Every bite gives you that perfect mix of textures moist cake creamy filling and those addictive crunchy toffee bits on top. It's my go to when I need a dessert that'll make everyone's eyes light up.
What You'll Need
- Devil's Food Cake Mix: 1 box this is your foundation
- Caramel Sauce: 1 cup it makes everything better
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can for that incredible moisture
- Cool Whip: 8 ounces creates the dreamiest topping
- Heath Toffee Bits: 1/2 cup for that irresistible crunch
Let's Make It Together
- Start With The Cake
- First whip up that devil's food cake following the box directions. Once it's baked let it cool for about 10 minutes you'll need it still warm but not hot.
- The Fun Part
- Now grab a wooden spoon and poke holes all over that cake. Mix your caramel sauce with the condensed milk and pour it all over letting it sink into those holes. It's messy but so worth it.
- The Finishing Touches
- Once it's completely cool spread that fluffy cool whip all over top. Sprinkle with those Heath bits and if you're feeling extra drizzle some more caramel on top.
- Chill Time
- Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour though I think it's even better after a few hours when everything gets super friendly in there.
My Best Tips
After making this cake countless times I've learned some tricks. Make sure that cake is completely cool before adding the Cool Whip or it'll melt everywhere trust me I learned that one the hard way. Play around with toppings crushed Oreos are amazing and so are chopped Reese's cups. Let it hang out in the fridge for a few hours it gets even better as those flavors mingle.
Mix It Up
The beauty of this cake is how flexible it is. Sometimes I'll swap the Heath bits for crushed Skor bars or even crushed peanut butter cups. When I'm feeling fancy I'll make my own caramel sauce it takes things to a whole new level. Try chocolate Cool Whip if you're a serious chocolate lover or add some sliced bananas between the layers.
Serving Tips
I love serving this cake cold straight from the fridge but it's also amazing at room temperature. Add an extra drizzle of warm caramel sauce right before serving it looks stunning. My family loves it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side the combination of temperatures and textures is incredible.
Make It Ahead
This cake is perfect for making ahead it'll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. I often make it a day or two before a party the flavors actually get better with time. Just wait to add the Cool Whip and toffee bits until a few hours before serving to keep them fresh.
Perfect for Any Party
Whether it's a birthday holiday gathering or just because this cake fits every occasion. It's that perfect mix of casual and special that makes everyone feel celebrated. Plus it feeds a crowd and looks beautiful on any dessert table.
Making It Gluten Free
I've got several gluten sensitive friends who love this cake. The trick is using a good gluten free chocolate cake mix as your base. Just double check all your other ingredients especially the caramel sauce since gluten can hide in unexpected places. The taste and texture stay just as amazing.
From Scratch Magic
Sometimes I'll make this with my favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe and caramel sauce. It takes a bit more time but wow the flavor is incredible. There's something special about making it completely from scratch my kitchen smells absolutely heavenly.
Fun With Toppings
The topping possibilities are endless. I love adding crushed pretzels for that sweet and salty combo or sprinkling on some mini chocolate chips. Fresh raspberries look gorgeous and taste amazing with the chocolate. My kids love helping choose different toppings each time we make it.
Make It Double
Want to really wow your guests? Try making this as a layer cake. Just slice your cooled cake horizontally spread that amazing caramel mixture between the layers then frost the whole thing with Cool Whip. The presentation is stunning and everyone gets more of that gooey caramel goodness.
Get The Kids Involved
This is such a fun cake to make with little helpers. My kids love being in charge of poking the holes and sprinkling on toppings. Yes it gets a bit messy but seeing their proud faces when we serve their creation makes it all worth it.
Perfect Pairings
A cold glass of milk is classic with this cake but try it with a creamy latte or hot cocoa too. For grown up gatherings I love serving it with a dessert wine the caramel notes in a good Port are fantastic with this cake.
Holiday Magic
I love dressing this cake up for holidays. Crushed candy canes on top for Christmas colored sprinkles for birthdays or even some gold sugar sparkles for New Year's. It's so easy to make it feel special for any celebration.
Why It's So Good
The secret to this cake's incredible texture is how that caramel and condensed milk mixture seeps into every bite. Those little holes we poke become pockets of gooey deliciousness making every forkful perfectly moist and rich.
Freezer Tips
Yes you can freeze this beauty! I make the cake and add the caramel mixture then wrap it really well and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready just thaw it overnight in the fridge and add fresh Cool Whip and toppings. It's perfect for planning ahead.
Why We Love It
This cake has been my go to dessert for years now. It's one of those recipes that just works every single time. The combination of chocolate caramel and toffee is totally irresistible and it's so easy to make it's become a true family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make it 1-2 days ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors actually improve as it sits.
- → What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
- You can use freshly whipped cream stabilized with a bit of powdered sugar. Whip 2 cups heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- → Can I use a different cake mix?
- While devils food cake works best, you can use any chocolate cake mix. The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the caramel and toffee.
- → Why is it called Better Than Anything Cake?
- The name comes from its rich combination of flavors and textures that many find irresistible. It's also known as Better Than Sex Cake.
- → How long does this cake last?
- When stored in the refrigerator, this cake stays fresh for up to 5 days. The caramel keeps it moist and flavorful.