Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a cake that bursts with bright citrus flavor and irresistible moistness, you’re in for a treat with this Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe. This delightfully fragrant cake combines the natural sweetness of fresh mandarins with warm spices and a luscious glaze, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for any gathering or a special indulgence just for you. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of tender crumb and zesty freshness that will have you reaching for seconds and sharing the secret with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients come together beautifully in this cake, each bringing its own magic to the table. From the creamy butter that ensures a tender texture to the bright mandarin oranges that infuse citrusy brightness, the combination is a real winner. The warming spices add depth and richness, making this cake both comforting and vibrant.

• Cooking spray: Essential for greasing your bundt pan to ensure the cake releases without a hitch.
• 1 1/2 cups butter, softened: Adds richness and a moist, tender crumb to the cake.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly, balancing the citrus notes.
• 3 eggs: Provide structure and lift for a light but sturdy crumb.
• 6 mandarin oranges or clementines, peeled (seeds removed): The star ingredient, supplying fresh tang and moisture.
• 1 cup almond flour: Adds a subtle nuttiness and helps keep the cake moist.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the cake the body it needs to hold together beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Lightens the texture and contributes to a soft crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening power that helps the cake rise evenly.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Works alongside baking soda for the perfect lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a gentle warmth to the spice blend.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a zingy brightness that complements the mandarins.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Deepens the spice profile with its cozy notes.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar: For a silky, sweet glaze finish.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Adds just enough liquid to make the glaze pourable.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a lovely mellow sweetness in the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor in the glaze.

How to Make Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Meanwhile, generously grease your bundt pan with cooking spray, ensuring every curve is coated so your cake will come out flawless and intact after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture for about 30 seconds until the two are fully combined and creamy. This step is crucial to creating a light texture in your cake.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating on medium speed for about a minute after all are added. The eggs will help bind everything together and lend the cake structure.

Step 4: Puree the Mandarins

In a blender or food processor, pulse the peeled mandarin oranges just enough so they’re broken down but not completely liquefied — this gives your cake lovely bursts of citrus throughout.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the pureed mandarin oranges to the butter and egg mixture, then beat until fully incorporated. The fresh fruit adds moisture and a zesty tang that sets this cake apart.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, spices (cloves, ginger, nutmeg), and salt. This blend of dry ingredients brings the cake’s signature texture and nuanced flavor.

Step 7: Incorporate Dry Into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — you want a tender crumb, not a dense cake.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Invert

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a cooling rack and let it cool completely to ensure the glaze doesn’t melt.

Step 10: Prepare and Apply Glaze

Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth and pourable. Drizzle generously over the cooled cake. Optional garnishes such as dried orange slices or zest add a festive, elegant touch.

How to Serve Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

Garnishes

The Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe shines even brighter with simple garnishes like candied mandarin slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds. These not only enhance the look but add delightful texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake alongside creamy whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic pairing. Fresh berries or a citrusy compote also complement the cake’s flavors without overpowering its delicate balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the cake into individual portions and serve on brightly colored plates. You can also layer slices with mascarpone and fresh orange segments for a fancy dessert parfait. The versatility of this Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe makes it perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days to maintain moistness and flavor. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended, wrapped well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully either as a whole bundt or in individual slices. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to protect from freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds to revive the soft texture and bring out the fragrant mandarin bouquet. Avoid overheating, which can dry the cake out.

FAQs

Can I substitute canned mandarins for fresh ones?

While fresh mandarins give the best flavor and texture for this Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe, you can use canned mandarins packed in juice if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to drain them well and pat dry to avoid extra moisture affecting the batter.

Is almond flour necessary in this recipe?

Almond flour adds moisture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the mandarins perfectly. You can try using all-purpose flour instead, but the cake’s texture and taste will be less rich and tender.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Don’t overbake, as this can dry out the cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can experiment by replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be aware that baking powder amounts and textures might need tweaking. The almond flour helps, but testing is key to perfect your version.

What’s the best way to get the glaze smooth and lump-free?

Sifting the powdered sugar before mixing and whisking the glaze until it’s completely smooth will give you the best results. Adjust the milk quantity to get the right consistency for drizzling.

Final Thoughts

This Mandarin Orange Bundt Cake Recipe is one of those special treats that effortlessly brightens any day. With its moist crumb, citrus zing, and warming spices, it’s truly a crowd-pleaser that begs to be shared. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and watch how quickly it disappears at your table!

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