This light and refreshing Mandarin Orange Pineapple Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With layers of fluffy cake, a tangy cream cheese filling, and a fruity finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
- 1 (18.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups confectioners' sugar (sift for best results)
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, juice reserved
- 2 (8 oz) cans mandarin oranges, drained (reserve 5 slices for decoration)
- 1 (3.5 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
- Mix and bake the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions for two round cake layers. Once baked, let the layers cool completely.
- Split the cake layers in half horizontally to create 4 layers in total. (If you prefer, you can split into fewer layers.)
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Fruit Filling
- In a large bowl, whip the cream cheese until soft and smooth.
- Gradually mix in the sifted confectioners' sugar until well incorporated.
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple (without juice) and the mandarin oranges, leaving a few slices aside for decoration.
- Add the dry vanilla pudding mix to the cream cheese mixture and stir.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until everything is well mixed.
- If the mixture feels too thick, add a little of the reserved pineapple juice to reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer, and spread more frosting over it.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cake layers, ensuring even coverage of frosting between each layer.
- Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out to create a clean finish.
Step 4: Decorate and Chill
- Use the reserved mandarin orange slices to decorate the top of the cake, arranging them in a pattern of your choice.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
Tips for the Best Mandarin Orange Pineapple Cake:
- Sift the confectioners' sugar for a smoother frosting.
- Add more pineapple juice to the frosting if you prefer a lighter consistency.
- Chill the cake overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Enjoy Your Tropical Treat!
This Mandarin Orange Pineapple Cake combines the tangy flavors of pineapple and mandarin oranges with a creamy, velvety frosting that is sure to impress. It’s light, fruity, and a delightful way to bring a touch of tropical sweetness to your next gathering!