Recipe(tried): Imitation Cathy's Rum Cake

Hi...I've been making a fake-Cathy's-Rum-Cake that tastes very similar and is SO EASY. I like to use a box cake mix because it's easier and it comes out with a similar texture.

Take 1 (or 2 depending on how many layers you want) box of yellow cake mix (you NEED the kind that has pudding in it). Make the mix as the box directs, but mix in 1 tsp of Rum extract. Pour batter into 2 8in rounds and bake according to box directions.

Let the cakes cool completely. Slice off the rounded tops because the cake needs to be flat or it will slide. Sometimes I like to make 2 mixes (four 8-inch rounds) so I can make a really thick 4 layer cake, but two layers is fine too. Refrigerate.

Next comes the pudding. You can either make your own Cook and Serve vanilla pudding (you'll need 1-2 boxes depending on how many layers you have) or you can just buy the jello pudding packs that are pre-made. If you cook your own, make sure it thickens properly (sometimes the gelatin fails) and let it cool COMPLETELY. Refrigerate the pudding until you assemble the cake.

Next, slice bananas and strawberries thinly (you'll need enough to cover all of the middle layers and have some left for garnishing the top).

To assemble: (for best results, do this as close to serving as possible):
Put the bottom layer down. Cover the top with pudding. in the pudding, place strawberries and bananas in a single layer. Continue this process if you have more than 2 layers. Do not put pudding/fruit on the top of the cake.

To frost, I use simple whipped cream, but you can use whatever you want. Garnish with fruit and refrigerate until served.

Good luck!

PS: whenever I buy Cathy's Rum Cakes, the pudding and fruit are partially frozen which leads me to believe they keep them frozen before purchase. I think that's because the pudding will destroy the cake in a few days because there is just too much moisture. So eat it fast!