Bright, fragrant, and full of natural sweetness, this Mandarin Cake (also known as Clementine Cake or Tangerine Cake) is the perfect way to celebrate citrus season. Made with whole mandarins — peel and all — blended right into the batter, it delivers an incredible aroma and moist texture that makes it impossible to resist.
Thanks to the addition of yogurt and sunflower oil, the cake stays deliciously soft for days. It’s ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert after dinner. Each slice is a burst of sunshine — sweet, tangy, and wonderfully fragrant.
What Is Mandarin Cake?
Mandarin Cake is a soft and moist citrus dessert made using whole mandarins or clementines. The fruit is blended with its peel to capture every bit of flavor and natural oil, giving the cake a bright citrus aroma and a tender crumb.
This Mediterranean-style cake is loved for its simplicity — no fancy steps, no frosting, just pure citrus goodness. Dust it with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream or yogurt for an extra touch of indulgence.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Natural Citrus Flavor: Made with whole mandarins for authentic aroma and taste.
- Soft and Moist Texture: Yogurt and sunflower oil keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
- Long-Lasting Freshness: Keeps moist for days and freezes beautifully.
Tips for the Best Mandarin Cake
- Use Organic Mandarins: Since you’ll be using the peel, organic fruit ensures a cleaner, more vibrant flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Blend just until smooth for a soft, fluffy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.
- Add a Twist: Try mixing in dark chocolate chips or a spoonful of honey for extra richness.
- Serve Chilled or Warm: Equally delicious at room temperature or slightly warm.
How to Store Mandarin Cake
Store the cake under a cake dome or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it moist, wrap it lightly in parchment paper.
How to Freeze Mandarin Cake
Let the cake cool completely, then cut it into slices. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven before serving.
How to Serve Mandarin Cake
- With powdered sugar and a cup of tea.
- Topped with fresh mandarin slices and whipped cream.
- Paired with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- As a base for layer cakes or trifle desserts.
Ingredients
How to Make Mandarin Cake
Wash and dry the mandarins thoroughly. Take about 300 g of them and roughly chop — keeping the peel on. Peel the remaining mandarins, remove any seeds, and cut them in half.
Place both the peeled and unpeeled mandarins in a food processor. Add yogurt, eggs, sugar, and sunflower oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and aromatic.
Add the flour and baking powder directly into the food processor and blend again until fully combined. The batter should be thick but pourable and have a rich orange color.
Butter and flour a 24 cm (9-inch) springform pan, then pour in the batter, spreading it evenly.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 75 minutes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with parchment paper after 30 minutes.
Let the cake cool slightly before removing it from the pan.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt.
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