Description
These Pineapple Orange Cupcakes are light, fluffy, and packed with refreshing citrus flavors. Made with mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and a creamy whipped topping, they are perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a quick dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges (with juice)
- 4 egg whites
- ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
For the Frosting:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 box (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 8 oz light Cool Whip
- Mandarin orange slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, mandarin oranges with juice, egg whites, and applesauce. Beat for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Fill each cupcake liner two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix crushed pineapple with juice and vanilla pudding mix. Let it thicken, then fold in Cool Whip.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes with the pineapple topping.
- Garnish with mandarin orange slices if desired. Chill for at least an hour before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use fresh pineapple instead of canned.
- Substitute vanilla pudding mix with coconut or banana for variety.
- Best served chilled for a refreshing taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American