Yum Yum Cake is a classic retro dessert that became popular in mid-20th century American kitchens, especially at potlucks and gatherings. Known for its ease and tropical flair, the cake combines a yellow cake mix with mandarin oranges for a moist and flavorful base. Its signature frosting blends whipped topping, crushed pineapple, and instant vanilla pudding, creating a light, fruity topping that complements the citrus cake beautifully. Beloved for its simplicity, refreshing taste, and nostalgic quality, Yum Yum Cake continues to be a crowd-pleaser at summer picnics, church socials, and family celebrations.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 pkg yellow cake mix (suggested: Duncan Hines Lemon Supreme)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 eggs (large )
- 11 oz mandarin oranges (with juice)
Frosting:
- 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
- 15-16 oz crushed pineapple (drained)
- 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix ( emon-flavored optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, oil, eggs, and mandarin oranges with their juice. Stir with a spoon until blended.
Step 2: Bake Cake
- Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake according to package directions (typically 30–35 minutes at 350°F) until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 3: Cool Cake
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Make Frosting
- In a bowl, combine Cool Whip, drained crushed pineapple, and instant pudding mix. Stir until well blended.
Step 5: Frost and Chill
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. Keep cake refrigerated.
Tips
- Use lemon-flavored yellow cake mix as noted for extra citrus brightness.
- Drain pineapple very well to prevent runny frosting.
- Chill the cake before frosting to reduce crumbs.
- Let the frosted cake refrigerate several hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Add toasted coconut on top for crunch and tropical flavor.
- Substitute sugar-free pudding mix for lighter version.
- Fold in mini marshmallows or chopped pecans to the frosting for texture.
- Bake as cupcakes for parties (reduce bake time).
- Add extra drained mandarin segments between layers if making a layer cake.
Nutrition
Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg
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