Description
This Mandarin Orange Cake is a light and moist dessert bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of mandarin oranges. Made with a simple yellow cake mix and fresh mandarin oranges, it’s an easy-to-make treat perfect for any occasion. The cake bakes to a tender crumb that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a citrus glaze, making it a delightful way to enjoy a fresh fruit-infused dessert in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/4 cup sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained (juice reserved)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, drained mandarin oranges, reserved orange juice, eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until the batter is smooth and the ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Pour Batter: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing. For added flavor and presentation, top the cake with whipped cream or a citrus glaze if desired before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the mandarin oranges well to avoid excess moisture which can affect cake texture.
- Using the reserved mandarin orange juice in the batter adds extra citrus flavor and moisture.
- Allow the cake to cool fully to prevent toppings like whipped cream from melting.
- For a citrus glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little mandarin orange juice and drizzle on top once cooled.
- This cake pairs excellently with vanilla ice cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
