The 70-Year-Old Beloved Boxed Mix Grandmas Won’t Be Buying Anymore Overview This article highlights an issue impacting traditional baking recipes cherished by grandmothers and home bakers: the shrinkage of boxed cake mixes, particularly Betty Crocker’s cake mix. This shrinkage affects the quantity and quality of baked goods, making many family recipes difficult to replicate. Key Points Shrinkflation of Cake Mix Boxes Betty Crocker cake mixes have decreased in size multiple times, most recently from 15.25 ounces to 13.25 ounces. The original size was 18.25 ounces, so the current box reflects a 27% decrease in product weight, a clear example of shrinkflation. The shrinkage results in fewer baked items and changes the texture and outcome of recipes. Impact on Family Recipes and Bakers The article shares the story of Judith, a neighbor and grandma whose chocolate crinkle cookie recipe has been a staple in community potlucks for 15 years. Her traditional recipe (box mix + two eggs + ⅓ cup neutral oil) now produces fewer and inferior cookies due to the reduced cake mix size. Judith and other grandmas feel disheartened and upset, with some refusing to buy the product out of principle. Other baked goods like dump cakes, crumbles, and pancakes are also suffering because of changes in mix size and possibly ingredients. Potential Changes in Ingredients There are observations, such as from a Reddit user, suggesting that Betty Crocker might have altered the amount of leaveners. This may cause the cake to appear substantial when hot but shrink after cooling. Official confirmation from the brand regarding ingredient changes is pending. The Science of Baking Baking requires precise measurements and consistency; thus, even small changes in ingredient quantities can drastically affect the outcome. Many treasured recipes passed down through generations rely on the original mix sizes and formulations. Additional Notes The author shared a new chocolate crinkle cookie recipe to help create new baking traditions. The article was originally published on The Kitchn. Author Ali Domrongchai, a Brooklyn-based food writer with a background involving food in her family's Thai restaurant. Visuals The article features images of baking ingredients and preparations. --- For more recipes, baking tips, and kid-friendly food content, visit the website or subscribe to their newsletter.