Million Dollar Cake

Would you eat a cake that “tastes like a million dollars?” That’s the origin behind the million dollar cake, a tropical-flavored cake with sweet and tangy flavors of fruit and cream sandwiched between a fluffy cake. This recipe keeps it simple by using a boxed cake mix and a box of pudding mix as the bases for your cake. We also use canned fruit so there’s no work to cut up the real thing. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients for Million Dollar Cake

• Mandarin oranges: Mandarin oranges are used as the topping for this cake and the reserved juices are also mixed into the cake batter to enhance the orange flavor of this dessert.
• Yellow cake mix: This million dollar cake is made simple with a box of cake mix. It has a small tweak to enhance the flavor.
• Cold milk: Milk is used as a base for the creamy center of this cake. Use a 2% or something else with milk fat for the best results.
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: A box of pudding mix is mixed with milk to thicken the milk and create that sweet, creamy center.
• Crushed pineapple: A can of crushed pineapple is used to add to the creamy center, which pairs well with the flavor of the mandarin orange already in the cake batter.
• Cream cheese: A block of softened cream cheese is used as the base of this cake frosting. You can quickly soften cream cheese using a microwave or a bowl of warm water.
• Confectioner’s sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens a frosting and keeps the texture smooth compared to a granulated sugar.
• Vanilla extract: Adds to the flavor of the frosting and cuts the tangy taste of the cream cheese.
• Whipped topping: A container of whipped topping is added to make the frosting light and airy. You can find a container of this in the freezer section of the grocery store.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the cake batter

Drain the can of mandarin oranges and reserve the liquid. Measure out 1/2 cup of the reserved liquid. Mix the reserved juice with 1/2 cup of water. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions, but add in the water and juice mixture in place of the water step in the mix.

Step 2: Bake the cake and let it cool

Transfer the batter to two greased 9-inch round baking pans, according to package directions. Cool the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Whisk the creamy center and layer

While the cakes are cooling, in a large mixing bowl whisk together the milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Stir in the pineapple. Place a layer of cooled cake on a plate, then layer 1 cup of the pudding mixture on top, then add the second cake layer.

Step 4: Frost the cake

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until smooth. Beat in 1 cup of whipped topping, then once everything is combined fold in the remaining topping. Spread the frosting on top and the sides of the cake. Cover the cake and refrigerate for three hours or overnight. Decorate with extra mandarin oranges before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Sprinkle with dried coconut and nuts: For even more enhanced flavor, and for a fun decorative twist, sprinkle some dried coconut and nuts of your choice (like pecans, almonds or walnuts) on top of the cake.
• Sub in almond extract: If you love the nutty flavor of almond extract, swap out the vanilla extract in the frosting and use almond extract instead. For an even more robust flavor, add 3/4 teaspoon extra to the frosting.
• Make it a pound cake: Prefer a thicker cake with your fruity topping? Switch it up and make the million dollar pound cake instead!

How to Store Million Dollar Cake

This cake contains a milk-based frosting and needs to be stored in the refrigerator. Store the million dollar cake covered in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.

Can you freeze million dollar cake?

For the best results, it’s best to freeze the cake layers separate and to assemble the cake when you’re ready to make it. Wrap the layers separately in plastic, then in aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to three months. Let the layers defrost in the fridge overnight before preparing the filling and the frosting.

Million Dollar Cake Tips

How can you make sure the filling isn’t too runny?

According to Taste of Home Senior Food Editor, Peggy Woodward, to make sure it’s not too runny, be sure to measure the milk accurately with a liquid measuring cup and thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple. Squeeze the liquid out of the pineapple by pressing down the loose can lid onto the pineapple while holding the can upside down or drain through a strainer, pressing the pineapple with the back of a large spoon to get the most juice out. If the filling seems too thin right after mixing, let it stand for one to two minutes to set up a bit.

Can you use fresh fruit in million dollar cake?

While you can top your cake with fresh slices of mandarin oranges, you’ll still need the liquid from the can to place in the cake if you want the taste to right. However, you can easily crush your own pineapple if that’s what you prefer!

What do you do with leftover million dollar cake filling?

Use it as a fruit dip as a snack! Cut up fresh fruit that’s easy to dip like strawberries or slices of apple.