If you’re craving a light, refreshing dessert with a sweet citrus twist, this Mandarin Orange Cake is the perfect treat. With its fluffy texture and vibrant orange flavor, it’s an easy-to-make cake that’s sure to impress at any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, a family gathering, or just as a sweet treat, this cake is the perfect balance of light and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a delightful fusion of sweet mandarin oranges and a light, fluffy texture. The citrus flavor shines through, making it a refreshing dessert that isn’t overly sweet. It’s quick and easy to make using a box cake mix, making it the perfect dessert for when you’re short on time but want something homemade. Plus, the cake can be topped with whipped cream or a citrus glaze for added indulgence!

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix
1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained and juice reserved
3 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan (8-inch round or square works well).
Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, mandarin oranges (with juice reserved), eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. You can top it with whipped cream or a citrus glaze for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Frosting Options: Try topping the cake with a simple whipped cream or a citrus glaze (mix powdered sugar and reserved mandarin orange juice for a tangy glaze).
Fruit Add-ins: Add some fresh or canned mandarin orange segments on top for added texture and flavor.
Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use non-dairy milk and oil to make this cake vegan-friendly.
Zesty Twist: Add a little lemon or lime zest to the batter for an extra layer of citrus flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerating: If frosted or glazed, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, then thaw at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh mandarins, but make sure to peel, segment, and remove any seeds before using. You can also use the juice from the fresh mandarins for added flavor.

2. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for several days.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.

4. Can I add a citrus glaze?

Absolutely! A citrus glaze made with powdered sugar and mandarin orange juice adds a sweet, tangy finishing touch.

5. Can I make this cake in a different-sized pan?

Yes, you can use a 9×9-inch square pan or a loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time as needed—check with a toothpick to ensure it’s done.

6. What can I serve with this cake?

Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh whipped cream, or a dollop of yogurt for a more indulgent treat.

7. Can I use another type of citrus?

You can swap the mandarin oranges for other citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines, or even lemons for a slightly different flavor.

8. Can I make this cake without sugar?

You can try using a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit if you prefer a sugar-free version, though the texture may be slightly different.

9. How can I make this cake fluffier?

Ensure you don’t overmix the batter, and be sure to use the proper amount of leavening agents (baking powder) for a light and airy texture.

10. Can I add nuts to this cake?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, almonds, or pistachios would be a great addition to this cake, either mixed in or sprinkled on top for some crunch.

Conclusion

This Mandarin Orange Cake is the ultimate citrus-inspired dessert. Light, fluffy, and bursting with the sweet, refreshing flavor of mandarin oranges, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special celebration or just as a sweet snack, this easy-to-make cake is sure to be a hit with everyone! Enjoy the bright citrusy goodness and delightful texture in every bite!

Mandarin Orange Cake

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Print Recipe

Looking for a refreshing, citrus-inspired dessert? This Mandarin Orange Cake is the perfect treat! With a light, fluffy texture and the bright, sweet flavor of mandarin oranges, this cake is easy to make and ideal for any occasion. Topped with whipped cream or a citrus glaze, it’s a deliciously simple dessert that’s sure to impress your guests!

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix

1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained and juice reserved

3 large eggs

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan (8-inch round or square works well).
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, mandarin oranges (with juice reserved), eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. Optionally, top with whipped cream or a citrus glaze for extra flavor.

Notes

Frosting Options: Try a simple whipped cream or a citrus glaze (mix powdered sugar and reserved mandarin orange juice).
Fruit Add-ins: Top the cake with fresh or canned mandarin orange segments for added texture.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs, and use non-dairy milk and oil for a vegan-friendly version.
Zesty Twist: Add a little lemon or lime zest to the batter for an extra citrus burst.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert, Citrus Cakes, Easy Cakes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian