🍴 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, mandarin oranges with juice, and vanilla extract.
Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth. The oranges will break up, adding moisture and little bursts of citrus flavor throughout the cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes (round pans) or 35–40 minutes (9×13 pan), until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from oven and let cakes cool completely on wire racks before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, stir together crushed pineapple (with juice) and instant pudding mix until thickened.
Fold in whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
If using, gently mix in shredded coconut.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
For a Layer Cake: Place one cooled cake round on a serving plate, spread a thick layer of frosting over it, then place the second cake round on top. Frost the top and sides generously.
For a Sheet Cake: Simply spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake in the pan.
Step 5: Chill & Garnish
Refrigerate cake for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight). This allows flavors to meld and frosting to set.
Garnish with extra mandarin oranges, toasted coconut, or cherries right before serving.
👩🍳 Tips & Variations
Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake actually tastes better the next day after chilling overnight.
Lighter Version: Use sugar-free pudding mix, light Cool Whip, and canned fruit in natural juice.
Tropical Twist: Add ½ cup drained crushed pineapple to the cake batter itself.
Cupcake Version: Bake in lined muffin tins for 18–20 minutes, then top with frosting.
Extra Creamy Frosting: Beat in 4 oz softened cream cheese before folding in Cool Whip.
Decoration Ideas: Arrange mandarin slices in a spiral on top, sprinkle with nuts, or pipe whipped cream for a fancier look.
🍽️ Yield
Makes 12–16 servings depending on pan size.
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