Pick A-Peck-A-Cake
A delightful and moist citrus-flavored cake featuring mandarin oranges, perfect for gatherings or casual desserts. Its bright, fruity flavor pairs well with tea or coffee, making it an easy-to-make treat that appeals to all ages and can be customized with frosting or served plain.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the yellow cake mix, Wesson oil, and the mandarin oranges with juice until well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly into three well-floured cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool before assembling or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for extra flavor. If you don’t have Wesson oil, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil will work well. You can also substitute the mandarin oranges with crushed pineapple for a different twist. Make sure to grease your pans well to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Frosty Fruit Salad for a refreshing dessert spread. Consider serving alongside Herbed Green Beans for a complete meal, especially during gatherings or celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the layers individually, wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, for up to 2 months. To reheat, let the cake come to room temperature and warm it gently in the oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pick A-Peck-A-Cake contains roughly 24 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 a different brand of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any yellow cake mix brand you prefer. Just follow the same proportions and instructions. Different brands may yield slight variations in texture or flavor, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
How can I make this cake more festive?
To make the cake more festive, consider adding a layer of frosting between the cake layers, such as cream cheese frosting or whipped topping. You could also decorate the top with fresh fruit or edible flowers for a colorful presentation.
Is this cake suitable for special diets?
This cake is not gluten-free or dairy-free as it contains cake mix and oil. However, you can explore gluten-free cake mixes and use a dairy-free oil alternative to make it more suitable for various dietary needs. Always check labels for allergens.
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).