Step 1: Preheat and prep : Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or parchment-line two 9×5″ loaf pans.

• Stuffani’s Tip:
  When I’m too tired to scrub pans, parchment is my superhero cape. Just lift, slice, and smile.

Step 2: Make the batter : In a big bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, oil, water, and sour cream. Beat on medium for 2 minutes until it’s silky.

• Kitchen Truth:
  Don’t overthink it. The box mix knows what it’s doing. You just bring the heart.

Step 3: Stir in the fun : Fold in your chocolate chips or dried fruit if using. Save some for the top if you want that bakery finish.

• Stuffani’s Whisper:
  This is where I let the kids throw in “just a few more” chips. It’s messy, it’s sweet, and it’s ours.

Step 4: Bake to dreamy : Split the batter into the loaf pans. Bake for 40–45 minutes. A toothpick should come out with crumbs, not wet batter.

• Real-Life Tip:
  Don’t wait for it to look perfect wait for it to smell perfect. That’s when you know.

Step 5: Cool it : Let the loaves rest 10 minutes, then move them to a wire rack.

• Stuffani’s Note:
  When I skip this step, it falls apart. When I respect the cool-down, I get beautiful slices. This bread teaches patience.