Mandarin Orange Cake Double Batch
A moist, citrus-flavored cake featuring sweet mandarin oranges, perfect for brunches, tea parties, or light desserts, offering a bright and flavorful twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat together the sugar, eggs, and drained mandarin orange slices.
- Mix in the flour and baking soda until well combined.
- Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also substitute half the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract. If mandarin oranges are unavailable, canned peaches or pineapples work well as substitutes. This cake can be topped with whipped cream or paired with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This Mandarin Orange Cake is perfect for brunch or as a light dessert. Serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Shirred Lemon Eggs for a delightful brunch experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or serve at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mandarin Orange Cake Double Batch contains roughly 75 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value).
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. Just peel and segment them, then ensure to drain the juice well. Keep in mind that the texture and moisture level might vary slightly compared to canned oranges.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Baking time may vary based on your oven, so start checking around 30 minutes.
Can I add frosting to the cake?
Absolutely! A light glaze or cream cheese frosting would complement the flavors beautifully. You might try Aunt Ruby's Peanut Butter Icing for a unique twist, or simply dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
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).