Orange Cake Recipe with Mandarin Oranges

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites and a pinch of salt at medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, avocado oil, reserved egg yolks, flour, baking powder, and orange juice. Fold in the beaten egg whites until just combined. No more white streaks should be visible.

Spread the batter on the cake pan. Bake until the top is just starting to turn a golden color and a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 18 to 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, about 2 hours.

Meanwhile, make the mandarin orange topping: Place the mandarin oranges in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of the mandarin juice with the cornstarch, set aside.

In a small saucepan, heat the remaining 15 ounces (440 ml) of the mandarin juice. Heat to boiling over high heat and whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Continue boiling, while stirring constantly, until thick like pudding, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and transfer to the bowl with the mandarin oranges.

Add the vanilla and using a rubber spatula, stir until everything is evenly incorporated. Let cool completely.

To make the frosting: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, or in a large bowl and using an electric hand mixer, add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream and whisk at high speed until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes. Gently fold in the sour cream until just combined.

To assemble: Evenly distribute the mandarin orange mixture over the cake. Spread on the frosting, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and chill in the fridge for 2 hours. Cut into slices and serve. This cake tastes great the next day but doesn’t keep well beyond that and is not freezer friendly.