Snow Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful layered cake featuring mandarin oranges and pecans, perfect for celebrations or a light dessert that appeals to citrus lovers and nut enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (18 1/2 oz.) box butter yellow cake mix
  • 3/4 cup salad oil
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges and juice
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease and flour 3 (8-inch) cake pans; set aside.
  2. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Blend until moistened; beat at medium speed for 4 minutes.
  4. Spread batter evenly in three prepared pans.
  5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
  6. Cool on wire racks.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, separate the egg whites and beat them until soft peaks form before gently folding them into the batter. If you don't have mandarin oranges, you can substitute with crushed pineapple or diced peaches for a different flavor. Ensure your cake pans are well-greased to prevent sticking, especially with this moist batter. This cake is also great for layering with whipped cream or frosting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Snow Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with Easy Gingerbread or can be enjoyed alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing touch. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish, making it perfect for special occasions.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, allow slices to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a fresh taste.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Snow Cake contains roughly 355 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 30g fat.

355 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.6g 7% DV
Total Fat 30.3g 39% DV
Carbs 21.2g 8% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 4.1g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 146.7mg 6% DV
Potassium 215.8mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 43mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.7mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 4.3mg 5% DV
Calcium 58.5mg 4% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Tree nuts

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 type of cake mix?

Yes, you can use a white or vanilla cake mix instead of butter yellow for a lighter flavor. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the richness of the cake. Experimenting with different mixes can lead to delicious variations, so feel free to try what you have on hand.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To prevent this, mix just until ingredients are combined. You can also try adding a little extra liquid, such as orange juice, to improve the moisture content. Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature as well, which helps with the cake's rise.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This can enhance the flavors. Just remember to frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.

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).

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