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About Us
The History of Duncan Hines
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The Duncan Hines Seal of Approval
In the forties, Duncan Hines was a traveling salesman turned food critic, who through his books became the authority on quality food. When he gave a restaurant a top rating, it would be presented with a "Recommended by Duncan Hines" sign. Today, our logo is a combination of the sign with a book, and is emblazoned on all of our mix packages.
The Authoring Years
Duncan's authoring success began when traveling across America as a salesman. On the road day after day, he would eat in many a restaurant of varying degrees of quality. As more people began venturing on nationwide driving trips, he wanted to help them find quality food and excellent service. In 1935, Duncan and his wife, Florence, compiled a list of 167 recommended establishments and sent them out as Christmas presents. He wrote:
"I am passing this information on to you, hoping that it may yield enjoyment and delectation, should you find yourself in the vicinity of one of these 'harbors of refreshment' as you travel hither and yon."
Word spread quickly, and soon enough he quit traveling sales to write full time. His books grew to include more restaurant reviews along with hotel and lodging reviews. As well, he put together a few collections of recipes--including one of his passions: baked goods.
A Brand Was Born
It was Duncan's well-respected persona and business sense that prompted North Carolina businessman, Roy Park, to approach him in 1948. Roy proposed that he lend his name to a line of packaged foods from many top manufacturers. In May 1950, Duncan Hines vanilla ice cream was delivered to the shelves of grocery stores across the nation. Initially, there were hundreds of products under the Hines-Park name, including cake mixes.
Their venture was a success, and in 1956 Procter & Gamble purchased the brand with the authority to put the Duncan Hines name on various food products. The line was eventually pared down to focus on the mixes you know and love today.
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Ingredient Substitution Tips
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Fat-Free Instant Puddings for Regular Instant Puddings
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You may substitute fat-free instant pudding instead of regular instant pudding in pound cakes. However the texture and consistency may be drier. So, if you don't mind losing some of the moistness, go right ahead.
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Sugar-Free Instant Puddings for Regular Instant Puddings
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Unfortunately, you cannot make this substitution. Real sugar in puddings is what adds to the tenderness of your cake. Also, artificial sweeteners lose their sweetness when heated.
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