Substituting water for the same amount of milk in a boxed cake greatly improves its texture. Full-fat milk is best for the same flavor and moistness as a homemade cake.

Substitute plain milk with flavored options like chocolate, strawberry, or coffee to add depth. Melted ice cream instead of milk adds richness without changing the flavor.

Buttermilk is a great option that has several advantages. It provides a pleasant tang to balance the cake's sweetness and creates a fluffier, more tender cake.

For a non-dairy option, stout beer, red wine, coffee, or soda can elevate your boxed cake mix. A lemon-lime soda in a lemon pound cake makes a tender crumb.