For those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, finding suitable treats can be a challenge. Fortunately, the market now offers various keto-friendly options, including baking mixes. Duncan Hines, a well-known brand, has also joined the keto-friendly scene with its Keto Friendly Chewy Fudge Brownie mix. This article dives deep into the Duncan Hines Keto Brownie mix, exploring its taste, texture, ease of preparation, and overall value.
First Impressions: Discovering the Mix
The author stumbled upon the Duncan Hines Keto Brownie mix during a shopping trip, initially drawn in by a bag of Swerve sweetener. Spotting the "KETO" label on the brownie mix sparked excitement, reminiscing about childhood memories of enjoying Duncan Hines cupcakes made by their grandmother. The nostalgia and the appeal of a keto-friendly treat led to purchasing the mix.
Priced at just under $6, the Duncan Hines Keto Cake & Brownie Mixes seemed like an affordable option. A quick online search revealed reviews suggesting the addition of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor. Eager to experiment, the author decided to put the brownie mix to the test.
Following Instructions: The Initial Attempt (Test #1)
The first test involved following the instructions on the box: combining the mix with butter, eggs, and water, then baking. Due to using a larger pan (11x9 instead of 8x8) and an oven that didn't quite reach 350°F, some adjustments were necessary.
The result was "alright" but underwhelming. The brownies lacked sweetness and a rich, fudgy texture, resembling a drier lemon bar. The chocolate flavor was also not as pronounced as desired.
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Modifications Begin: Adding Chocolate (Test #2)
To address the lack of chocolate flavor, a half cup of Lilly’s Milk Chocolate Chips was added to the mix. While Lilly's Dark Chocolate chips are a common favorite, milk chocolate was chosen for its better melting properties. The rest of the ingredients remained the same, and this time, an 8x8 pan and a properly functioning oven were used.
Baking for 20 minutes resulted in a significant improvement. The milk chocolate chips added the desired chocolate flavor and texture. However, the brownies still weren't as sweet as preferred.
Suggested Substitutions: Experimenting with Greek Yogurt (Test #3)
The Duncan Hines box suggests substitutions like coconut oil, avocado oil, unsweetened applesauce, or Greek yogurt. Opting for the lowest calorie option, Greek yogurt caught the author's attention. Six tablespoons of melted butter were replaced with six tablespoons of 10% fat Greek yogurt, along with another half cup of Lilly’s Milk Chocolate chips. The result was interesting.
When to Stop? Evaluating the Effort
After the 5th test, the author decided to stop experimenting. The primary purpose of a pre-made mix is to save time and effort. However, the need for numerous additional ingredients diminished the time-saving aspect. If so many modifications are required, making the mix from scratch might be a better option.
However, the mix is great if you just want to make some brownies now. It requires simple ingredients and can be made very quickly!
Read also: Keto-Friendly Baking Mix
The Verdict: A Keto Home Run with a Few Tweaks
Despite the initial underwhelming results, the Duncan Hines Keto Brownies ultimately proved to be a success with a few modifications. The key was adding extra chocolate and potentially a sweetener substitute to enhance the flavor profile.
The author achieved a "keto home run" by adding Lily's Salted Caramel Chocolate Chips to the mix. Even a non-keto-eating, picky teenager approved, requesting another batch soon after.
Key Ingredients and Potential Laxative Effect
The ingredient list includes erythritol, almond flour, coconut flour, allulose, chicory root fiber (inulin), leavening agents, modified tapioca starch, salt, xanthan gum, stevia sweetener (steviol glycosides), and natural flavor.
The packaging mentions that excessive consumption of erythritol, allulose, and inulin may cause a laxative effect.
Duncan Hines Keto Classic Yellow Cake Mix
The author also experimented with the Duncan Hines Keto Classic Yellow Cake Mix, opting to make cupcakes instead of a full cake. Following the suggestion to add vanilla extract (about 1/4 - 1/2 tsp) to the mix, the cupcakes baked up beautifully.
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While Birch Benders keto frosting was initially chosen for the cupcakes, it proved to be unappetizing. Instead, the cupcakes were topped with cut-up strawberries for added flavor and visual appeal. Despite not being a skilled baker, the author found the cupcakes to be delicious, almost like the real thing.
Alternatives and Variations
For those who prefer not to make their own frosting, Duncan Hines Keto Frosting is a convenient option. The yellow cake mix can also be used to create other desserts, such as a keto pumpkin cake with chocolate chips.
Conclusion: Worth Buying with Considerations
Both the Duncan Hines Keto Cake Mix and Brownie Mix are worth considering, especially given their affordable price and the minimal extra ingredients required. With a few adjustments, such as adding extra chocolate or vanilla extract, these mixes can satisfy cravings for sweet treats while adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle.