When you’re craving a dessert that’s sure to wow your guests, nothing beats the irresistible taste of a Finger Lickin’ Good Cake. Named after the iconic country music legend Barbara Mandrell’s “Pig-Lickin’ Cake,” this moist, tender cake is truly unforgettable. Packed with juicy mandarin oranges and topped with a decadent, creamy frosting that has the delightful flavors of a pina colada, it’s the perfect treat to serve at your next summer BBQ, family gathering, or any occasion that calls for a light and refreshing citrusy dessert. The best part? There won’t be a single crumb left on the plate.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
This cake is a perfect balance of fluffy, zesty goodness, with the vibrant flavor of mandarin oranges shining through in every bite. The frosting, a dream come true for coconut lovers, brings in just the right amount of tropical sweetness. Whether you’re looking to treat your family after a long day or impress guests at a party, this cake offers both convenience and a taste that lingers long after the first bite.
Ingredients for the Cake
For this delightful dessert, you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (any brand)
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 (11 oz) can of mandarin oranges, drained and chopped (reserve the juice)
- 1/2 cup of the mandarin orange juice (from the can)
For the Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) container of whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup of crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lime or lemon juice (for a citrus kick)
- Optional: Additional coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions for Preparing the Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, mandarin orange juice, and chopped mandarin oranges. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the ingredients together until smooth and well-combined. The texture should be slightly thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon or two more juice to achieve the right consistency.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking at 28 minutes to ensure you don’t overbake. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This cooling period is essential to prevent the frosting from melting off the warm cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Frosting
- Blend the Frosting Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy. Add in the whipped topping, shredded coconut, crushed pineapple (making sure it’s drained properly to avoid excess moisture), and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Continue to beat until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, and the frosting has a fluffy texture.
- Frost the Cake: Once your cake has cooled to room temperature, spread a generous layer of the frosting over the top. Make sure the frosting is evenly spread out to cover every edge and corner, creating a thick, creamy topping. The frosting will form a lush, tropical layer that complements the moistness of the cake beneath it.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra tropical touch, sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top of the frosted cake. This adds a bit of texture and a beautiful, festive appearance.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Now that your Finger Lickin’ Good Cake is ready, cut into squares and serve chilled. This cake is best enjoyed when it’s cool, so allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. The combination of citrus, creaminess, and coconut creates a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Tips for Making the Best Finger Lickin’ Good Cake
- Mandarin Orange Substitution: If you can’t find canned mandarin oranges, you can use fresh oranges or another type of citrus fruit. Just be sure to chop them up into small pieces to maintain the texture.
- Make It Ahead: This cake is a great make-ahead option! You can prepare it the night before your event and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
- Texture Variations: If you want a more textured frosting, feel free to add some chopped macadamia nuts or toasted coconut to the frosting for an additional crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
It’s easy to see why Finger Lickin’ Good Cake has stood the test of time. This cake offers a beautiful combination of moisture, sweetness, and refreshing citrus that’s perfect for hot summer days. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a fruity, tropical dessert, this cake fits every occasion.
The best part? This cake is so light and airy, you can eat several slices without feeling guilty. The tropical flavors, combined with the rich and creamy frosting, create a symphony of taste in every bite. It’s a dessert that people will rave about long after the last crumb is gone. Your guests will be asking for the recipe, and it might just become your signature dish at future gatherings.
Conclusion :
The Finger Lickin’ Good Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. The zesty mandarin oranges and the luscious, pina colada-inspired frosting make it a crowd-pleaser every time. From casual family dinners to formal celebrations, this cake adds a touch of sweetness and sunshine to any occasion. With its moist, fluffy texture and bold tropical flavors, it’s no wonder this cake has become a beloved favorite. Next time you want to impress your friends and family with something extraordinary, this cake is your go-to solution. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s truly finger-lickin’ good!
