Discover the bright, tangy delight of the Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe, a luscious dessert that perfectly captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic creamsicle in cake form. This vibrant cake balances zesty orange and creamy vanilla notes with a soft, moist crumb and a dreamy, smooth frosting, making it ideal for celebrations or whenever you need a sunny pick-me-up. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just want a crowd-pleaser that’s straightforward to whip up, this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things simple is the key to the success of this recipe. Each ingredient here plays a crucial role: from the bright orange cake base to the creamy frosting that brings it all to life, every component enhances the flavor, moisture, and irresistible texture of the cake.
- 1 box orange cake mix: The foundation of this cake, providing that wonderful citrus flavor and light texture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the cake tender and balanced.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Ensures the cake stays soft and moist.
- 3 large eggs: Essential for structure and richness.
- 1/4 cup orange juice: Boosts the natural orange flavor and infuses freshness.
- 1 tsp orange zest: Delivers an extra punch of citrus aroma and depth.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm sweetness.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the frosting, lending creaminess and slight tang.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and smooth texture to the frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
- 1 tbsp orange juice: Keeps the frosting light with that fresh citrus punch.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the frosting flavor beautifully.
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional, for garnish): Gives a vibrant and elegant finishing touch.
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly greasing and flouring two 9-inch cake pans. This ensures your cakes won’t stick and will bake evenly, giving you those perfect layers for your masterpiece.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the orange cake mix with sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until it’s completely smooth and combined so you get that wonderful blend of flavors in every bite.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and pop them in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking at 30 minutes to see if a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This means your cakes are perfectly baked, soft yet sturdy enough to hold the frosting.
Step 4: Cool the Cake
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Cooling fully is essential to make sure the frosting doesn’t melt when applied.
Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Frosting
While the cakes cool, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until the texture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, blending well after each addition until you get a luscious frosting.
Step 6: Add Flavor to the Frosting
Mix in the orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest, creating a frosting bursting with fresh citrus notes that pairs perfectly with the cake layers.
Step 7: Assemble and Frost the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer generously. Then carefully place the second layer on top and spread the frosting evenly over the entire cake, making sure every edge is covered beautifully.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the optional orange zest on top for a pop of color and that irresistible citrus aroma. Slice up your creation and get ready to enjoy every creamy, zesty bite!
How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the cake’s visual and flavor appeal by adding fresh orange zest or candied orange slices on top. Not only do these garnishes add a burst of color, but they also elevate that refreshing citrus flavor with a delightful texture contrast.
Side Dishes
Pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can amplify the creamy notes in the cake while balancing the bright orange zest. Fresh berries or a vibrant fruit salad are also fantastic to serve alongside, providing a light, juicy complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cake in individual mini mason jars topped with frosting and orange zest, or layer cake cubes with frosting and whipped cream in glasses for a deconstructed Orange Creamsicle Cake experience. Either way, it’s a showstopper that invites smiles at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays delicious when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled ensures the frosting stays firm and the cake layers remain moist and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving for a fresh-baked taste.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If preferred, leave the slice out at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting slightly for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh oranges instead of store-bought orange juice?
Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice will add a vibrant, natural citrus flavor that elevates the cake’s taste. Just be sure to strain any seeds for a smooth batter.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the batter?
Sour cream is key for maintaining moistness and slight tang, which balances the sweetness and enhances texture. You could substitute with Greek yogurt, but expect a slight flavor variation.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free orange cake mix compatible with the rest of the ingredients. Just double-check your cake mix for gluten-free labeling to ensure success.
How do I get the frosting to be the perfect consistency?
Softened cream cheese and butter combined with gradual addition of powdered sugar help achieve a smooth, spreadable frosting. If it’s too thick, a tiny splash of orange juice keeps it creamy; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all ingredients and bake in appropriately sized pans or multiple pans. Monitor baking time closely as it may vary depending on your oven and pan size.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe, you’re just a few steps away from bringing a burst of sunshine to your table. This cake’s radiant flavors and creamy frosting create moments of pure joy. So grab your ingredients, have fun with the process, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this citrusy, dreamy delight. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe combines vibrant orange flavors with creamy frosting to create a delightful, nostalgic dessert reminiscent of the classic creamsicle treat. Moist and tender orange cake layers are topped with a luscious orange cream cheese frosting, perfect for celebrations or an indulgent everyday treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box orange cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to ensure the cake layers release easily after baking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the orange cake mix with sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour Batter: Evenly distribute the batter into the two prepared cake pans to ensure even baking.
- Bake Cake Layers: Bake the cakes for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, preventing sogginess and preparing them for frosting.
- Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, creating a rich base for the frosting.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Flavor Frosting: Mix in orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest to infuse the frosting with fresh citrus flavor.
- Assemble Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle extra orange zest over the cake for a bright, decorative finish.
- Serve: Slice the cake, serve, and enjoy this creamy and citrusy dessert.
Notes
- Make sure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
- For an extra citrus punch, consider adding a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the frosting.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor impact.
- The cake mix base allows for a quick and easy preparation while delivering moist texture.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
