Orange Coconut Cake

RECIPE :

The Orange Coconut Cake is a delightful marriage of zesty orange and tropical coconut, offering a burst of flavor and a touch of paradise in every slice. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, as a delightful treat, or just to add a bit of zest to your day, this cake promises a fusion of citrus and coconut that’s simply delightful. Gather your ingredients, follow the straightforward steps, and savor the combination of orange and coconut as you create moments of pure delight around the dessert table.

Orange Coconut Cake

“The Orange Coconut Cake is a delectable fusion of zesty orange and tropical coconut, offering a burst of citrus sunshine in every slice.”

INGREDIENTS:

Cake:

• 1 orange cake mix (I used Pillsbury Moist Supreme Creamsicle cake mix)
• 1 cup flaked, sweetened coconut
• Tools: Cake Leveler for beautiful even cake layers

Frosting:

• 1 (15 oz.) can mandarin oranges, do not drain, crushed
• 1 (5 oz.) large instant vanilla pudding mix (not prepared)
• 1 cup flaked, sweetened coconut
• 1 (8 oz.) frozen whipped topping, thawed

INSTRUCTIONS:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper and then spray them with nonstick baking spray.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. This typically involves mixing the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water, but follow the specific instructions on the box. After the cake mix is well combined, stir in 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut.
3. Bake the cakes according to the instructions for two 9-inch cake pans. Once they are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them cool.

For the Frosting:

1. In a large mixing bowl, crush the mandarin oranges (with their juices) using an electric mixer.
2. Mix in the instant vanilla pudding mix and 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is well combined.

Assembling the Cake:

1. When the cakes are cool enough to handle, remove them from the pans and place them on a flat surface.
2. Use a cake leveler or a sharp knife to cut the tops off both cakes to create a flat surface.
3. Place one of the cakes with the cut side down on a cake plate.
4. Add a layer of the prepared frosting on top of the cake layer.
5. Place the second cake layer, cut side down, on top of the frosting layer. This will give you a perfectly flat surface on the top of the cake for a clean look.
6. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. You can garnish with a few mandarin oranges if desired.
7. Let the cake chill in the fridge for several hours before serving.