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Freshly baked mandarin orange cake with glaze and citrus garnish.

Mandarin Orange Cake

This Mandarin Orange Cake is light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. It's easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake Batter

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup mandarin orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon mandarin orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup whole milk

Optional Garnishes

  • Powdered sugar
  • Mandarin orange slices
  • Whipped cream

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch or 9-inch cake pan.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in mandarin orange zest, juice, and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth.
  • Pour batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a citrus glaze before serving.
Keyword citrus cake, easy cake recipe, Mandarin orange cake