Orange Coconut Cake with Mandarin Orange Frosting

For the Sunshine Cake:

• The Citrus Star:
• 1 orange cake mix (1 box) - We used Pillsbury Moist Supreme Creamsicle cake mix for its vibrant orange flavor, but feel free to choose your favorite brand.
• The Tropical Addition:
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut - Adds a delightful sweetness, chewiness, and a touch of tropical flair to the cake.
• Tools:
• Cake leveler (optional) - This helps achieve perfectly even cake layers for a professional presentation.

For the Mandarin Orange Dream Frosting:

• The Tangy Citrus Burst:
• 1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained (not dried or ground) - Mandarin oranges add a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the orange cake perfectly. Reserve a few whole mandarin oranges for garnish if desired.
• The Creamy Base:
• 1 (5 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix - Provides a smooth and creamy base for the frosting.
• The Tropical Touch:
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut - Adds more coconut flavor and texture to the frosting.
• The Light and Fluffy Touch:
• 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped cream, thawed - Adds lightness and a delightful sweetness to the frosting.

1. Preparing to Bake Sunshine: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and grease them with nonstick baking spray for easy removal.
2. Creating the Tropical Cake Batter: Prepare the orange cake mix according to the package instructions. Once the batter is well mixed, gently fold in 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut.
3. Baking the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the two greased cake pans. Bake the cakes according to the cake mix instructions, typically around 25-30 minutes. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely in the pans before frosting.
4. Making the Dreamy Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, crush the drained mandarin oranges, including their juices. This will create a slightly chunky citrus mixture.
5. Building the Creamy Citrus Delight: Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and the remaining 1 cup of shredded coconut to the crushed mandarin oranges. Beat with the electric mixer until well combined.
6. Folding in Lightness: Gently fold in the thawed whipped cream until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the frosting to lose its volume.
7. Assembling the Tropical Paradise: Once the cakes have cooled completely, use a cake leveler (if using) to ensure even layers. Place one cake layer on a cake plate or serving dish, cut side down. Spread a generous layer of the mandarin orange frosting over the top.
8. Adding a Fruity Touch (Optional): If desired, arrange some mandarin orange slices on top of the frosting layer for a beautiful and refreshing garnish.
9. Frosted Perfection: Carefully place the second cake layer on top, cut side down, to create a complete cake. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
10. A Touch of Citrus Cheer (Optional): For an extra flourish, garnish the top of the frosted cake with additional mandarin orange slices.
11. Chilling for Perfection: Refrigerate the cake for several hours before serving. This allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.