Million Dollar Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box: eggs, oil, water)

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained
• 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip or whipped topping, thawed
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk
• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained

Instructions:

1. Bake the Cake:

• Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions.
• Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions.
• Divide the batter evenly between two 9-inch round cake pans, greased and floured.
• Bake according to the time listed on the box (usually 25-30 minutes), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely.

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
• In another bowl, whisk the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
• Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
• Add the drained pineapple and gently fold in until mixed.
• Gently stir in the drained mandarin oranges.

1. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes have cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate.
• Spread half of the creamy filling mixture evenly over the first cake layer.
• Place the second cake layer on top.
• Spread the remaining filling on top and around the sides of the cake for a full coating.

1. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up.
• Garnish with extra mandarin oranges or a sprinkle of shredded coconut if desired.

Enjoy your indulgent Million Dollar Cake! The combination of cream cheese, fruit, and whipped topping gives this cake its signature rich and refreshing taste.