Description
Million Dollar Cake is a delightful American dessert featuring a moist yellow cake layered and frosted with a creamy, tangy fruit mixture made from cream cheese, whipped topping, crushed pineapple, and mandarin oranges. Perfect for potlucks and special occasions, this easy-to-make cake combines tropical flavors with a smooth, rich frosting for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
Frosting and Filling Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layers: Follow the instructions on the yellow cake mix box and bake the cake batter in two 9-inch round cake pans. After baking, allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
- Make the Fruit Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully combined. Carefully mix in the drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges, ensuring even distribution without breaking up the fruit too much.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the fruit frosting mixture evenly over the top of this layer. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining fruit frosting over the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set properly. For best results, chill overnight. Garnish with maraschino cherries if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute light whipped topping and reduced-fat cream cheese.
- The cake can be made a day in advance; chilling overnight enhances the flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
