Pineapple Orange Heaven Cake

If you’re dreaming of a light, fruity dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Pineapple Orange Heaven Cake is your answer! Packed with tropical flavors and a luscious whipped topping, this cake is the perfect refreshing treat for any gathering or just a sweet pick-me-up.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright & Refreshing – The tropical flavors of pineapple and orange are a match made in dessert heaven.
Light & Fluffy – Made with angel food cake, it’s wonderfully airy and satisfying without being heavy.
Easy to Make – Just a few simple steps and ingredients!
Perfect for Warm Weather – A chilled, fruity cake that’s ideal for spring and summer.
Crowd-Pleaser – Great for potlucks, parties, or anytime you need an easy, beautiful dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 1 box angel food cake mix
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained and roughly chopped

For the Whipped Topping:

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk
• 1 tsp orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Extra mandarin orange slices
• Pineapple chunks
• Fresh mint leaves

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand or stand mixer
• Spatula
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven according to the angel food cake mix package instructions.
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish if not specified otherwise on your cake mix box (some angel food cakes require an ungreased pan for proper rising).

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the angel food cake mix and crushed pineapple (with the juice).
Gently stir until well combined—the batter will get light and fluffy as it mixes.
Fold in the chopped mandarin oranges carefully to distribute evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
Bake according to the package instructions, typically around 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the cake completely before adding the topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Topping
In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy.
Stir in the orange zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor if using.

Step 5: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the whipped topping mixture evenly over the top.
Use a spatula to smooth it out beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Chill
Top with extra mandarin orange slices, pineapple chunks, and fresh mint if desired.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the topping set.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Orange Heaven Cake
Don’t Overmix – Gently fold the fruit into the batter to keep the cake airy.
Cool Completely – Make sure the cake is fully cooled before adding the topping to prevent it from melting.
Use Cold Milk – Helps the pudding thicken quickly and gives the topping structure.
Chill Before Serving – Refrigeration not only sets the topping but also enhances the refreshing flavor.

Serving Suggestions
As a Dessert – A perfect ending to any meal, especially barbecues and summer dinners.
At Potlucks – Easy to transport and guaranteed to disappear fast.
With Coffee or Tea – A light yet satisfying treat with your afternoon beverage.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Freeze unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.

Reheating:
Not recommended. This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapple and oranges?
   Yes! Just make sure the pineapple is finely crushed and the oranges are chopped small.
2. Can I make this cake a day ahead?
   Absolutely. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
3. What if I don’t have instant pudding?
   You can skip it and simply use whipped topping, but the pudding adds a firmer texture and a richer flavor.
4. Can I use sugar-free options?
   Yes, sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping work great for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts
Pineapple Orange Heaven Cake is the ultimate easy dessert recipe—bright, fluffy, creamy, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a party, a holiday, or just because you want something sweet and tropical, this cake delivers every single time.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your creations on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your cake turns out.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 240mg

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