Pineapple-Orange Refrigerator Cake
A moist, fruity refrigerator cake blending pineapple, mandarin oranges, and buttery cake mix for a light, flavorful dessert perfect for casual gatherings or family treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Do not drain the mandarin oranges.
- Mix the entire can of mandarins with the cake mix, eggs one at a time, and oil until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider folding in some crushed pineapple or coconut flakes into the batter. If you don't have a butter cake mix, a vanilla or yellow cake mix can be used as a substitute. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. This cake is perfect for summer picnics or gatherings, similar to Travel Cakes.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh fruit or a citrus salad can be a refreshing side. For a festive touch, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce over the top. It’s a delightful dessert to serve alongside Peach Or Apple Pie for a dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To keep it moist, cover the top with plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, you can serve it cold or let it come to room temperature. For a warm option, lightly microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple-Orange Refrigerator Cake contains roughly 688 calories, with 4g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% 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 oranges instead of canned mandarins?
Yes, you can use fresh oranges, but you will need to segment and juice them to achieve a similar consistency. Keep in mind that fresh oranges will change the texture and flavor slightly, so adjust sweetness if necessary.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, consider adding a simple syrup made with equal parts sugar and water to moisten it. Brush the syrup onto the cake while it's still warm. Additionally, ensure you aren't overbaking it next time, as that can lead to dryness.
Can I freeze this cake for later?
Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).