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mandarin orange cake

Mandarin Orange Cake – Light, Citrus-Sweet, and Moist

This Mandarin Orange Cake is a bright, tender cake packed with fresh mandarin flavor. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion, it’s moist, fluffy, and lightly sweetened with a hint of citrus. Add a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of indulgence!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:
  • 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
  • 1 small can 11 oz mandarin oranges, drained and chopped
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze (Optional):
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 –3 tbsp mandarin juice from the can or fresh

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Preheat oven
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Prepare the batter
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, drained and chopped mandarin oranges, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
  2. Beat on medium speed until smooth and fully combined.
Bake the cake
  1. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  2. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool
  1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack or serve directly from the pan.
Optional glaze
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and mandarin juice until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the cooled cake for a glossy, citrusy finish.
Serve
  1. Slice into squares and enjoy as a light, refreshing dessert.

Notes

For extra flavor, fold in ½ cup shredded coconut or chopped nuts.
The glaze is optional, but it adds a lovely citrusy sweetness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.