mini layer cakes - $3.69

I have noticed recently that the store sells brownie mix for a dollar a box. all it takes is a couple eggs an some oil for a tasty treat. and if you want them a little healthier, you can substitute 1/3c applesauce for each egg you use. I have been getting creative, but tonight's adventure really "takes the cake." I didn't have any birthday cake this year, so i figured i would make my own individual cakes using my trusty brownie mix. One box of mix makes about 20 with this recipe. The secret is to add an extra egg, and use baking cups, for the perfect consistency.

Servings: 20 individual cakes

Ingredients:

1 Box Brownie Mix (cheapest you can find - most stores have $1 boxes) - $1

3 Eggs (or one egg more than your brownie mix calls for) or 1c applesauce

1/2c oil

1/4c water

1 can frosting (I used cream cheese, use your favorite) - $2.69

Cupcake Papers

Garnish

Optional items:

Nuts

Coconut

Chocolate Chips

peppermint oil/extract

etc (you get the idea - whatever you have a little bit left of in your cabinets)

Mix together the eggs and oil, then add brownie mix - blend till all lumps are gone, then add extra ingredients. pour into muffin cups about 1/3 full to make individual layers, and 2/3 full to make sliceable cakes that can be cut in two to make layers. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. let cool - if you don't the frosting will melt! When they are cool, slice the tall ones right under the "muffin top." Frost the bottom half, then place the top on it. Frost the sides, then the top, and garnish with a sprig of mint, a drizzle of hersheys syrup, a maraschino cherry, sprinkles - use your imagination on this an the add ins that mix well wit a dark, devil's food like cake and your favorite frosting.

they are yummy!