Finger Licking' Good Cake
A moist, flavorful cake infused with mandarin oranges and pineapple, perfect for fruit lovers and suitable for family gatherings and celebrations with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, undrained mandarin oranges, melted butter, vegetable oil, eggs, and pineapple juice.
- Blend on low speed for 1 minute.
- Scrape down sides of the bowl, then mix on medium speed for 2 more minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake before frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can also substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. If you don't have butter, margarine or coconut oil can work as substitutes while maintaining moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a light fruit salad or serve alongside Fantastic Strawberry Jello With Sour Cream for a refreshing dessert table. It’s a perfect treat for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to keep the cake fresh for a longer period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Finger Licking' Good Cake contains roughly 174 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 13g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh mandarin oranges, but you'll need to peel and segment them. Ensure to measure the equivalent amount, as fresh fruits may have a different moisture content, which could affect the batter consistency.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Be sure not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before storing. Frost it closer to serving time to keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).