* Item: Betty Crocker Stir 'n Bake Cake Mix

* What you get: 6 servings

* Cost: About $2

* Preparation time: 21 to 26 minutes in conventional oven

* Review: Our 9-year-old neighbor, Matt, pronounced this cake mix -- which requires only water and a bowl to mix the batter -- "very easy" to make. The cake is baked in a 6-inch by 8-inch pan that's included. The Devil's-Food version was "really chocolaty and sweet," Matt said. The Coffee Cake hides a layer of crumbly cinnamon streusel. Brownies and Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting are among other offerings. When boredom sets in this summer, send your budding bakers to the kitchen to try their luck. It's sure to be a snack-time hit.

Pub Date: 7/08/98