If you love the nostalgic flavor of a classic orange creamsicle, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is the perfect dessert to brighten your day. With layers of zesty orange and a creamy, buttery frosting, this cake is a showstopper for any occasion. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box vanilla cake mix
1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
1 cup orange juice
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp orange zest
For the Frosting:
1 cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
2 tbsp orange liqueur (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin mix.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Beat on medium speed with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and well mixed.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully turn them onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Frosting
- Whip the Butter: Beat the softened butter on high speed until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the bowl frequently to ensure even mixing.
- Add Cream and Flavoring: Stir in the heavy cream and orange liqueur (if using). Beat on high speed until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
Step 3: Assemble and Frost
- Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread an even layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
- Smooth the frosting for a polished look or create decorative swirls with a spatula.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice and serve your Orange Creamsicle Cake for a sweet, citrusy treat.
Tips and Variations
Extra Zest: For a stronger orange flavor, increase the orange zest to 2 teaspoons.
Marbled Look: Swirl in a small amount of orange food coloring to the batter for a creamsicle-inspired marble effect.
Layer Options: Instead of two 8-inch layers, try making cupcakes or a bundt cake with the same batter. Adjust baking times accordingly.
Alcohol-Free Version: Skip the orange liqueur for a kid-friendly dessert.
How to Store
At Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
In the Refrigerator: Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh orange juice?
Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the citrus flavor. - Can I substitute the orange gelatin mix?
If you can’t find orange gelatin mix, try using orange extract and a small amount of orange food coloring for a similar effect. - How do I make the frosting less sweet?
You can balance the sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or a little more heavy cream to the frosting. - Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers up to 2 days ahead, wrap them tightly, and store them at room temperature. Frost closer to serving for the best results.
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a dessert worth celebrating. Whether for a birthday, a family gathering, or just a treat for yourself, it’s a delicious reminder of summer flavors and happy moments. Enjoy!