Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Orange Creamsicle Cake combines the classic flavors of orange and vanilla in a moist, fluffy cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With a creamy orange frosting and a hint of zest, it tastes just like the beloved frozen treat in cake form.

Ingredients

• 1 box vanilla cake mix
• 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 2 tbsp orange extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prepare for baking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin mix thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Add the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined.
4. Step 4: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
5. Step 5: To make the frosting, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in the heavy cream and orange extract if using, then beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
6. Step 6: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Stack the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
7. Step 7: Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake!

Tips & Variations

• For a stronger orange flavor, add extra orange zest to the batter or use fresh-squeezed orange juice.
• If you prefer a lighter frosting, substitute half the butter with cream cheese.
• Use food coloring to give the frosting a pale orange tint for a more vibrant appearance.

Storage

Store the Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. You can also freeze the cake (unfrosted or frosted) for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch without using cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute a homemade vanilla cake recipe and add orange gelatin and zest to replicate the flavor, but using a cake mix simplifies the process and ensures consistent texture.

Is it necessary to use orange gelatin mix in the cake?

The orange gelatin mix adds both flavor and a subtle moistness to the cake, giving it that distinctive creamsicle taste. However, you can omit it if needed, but the orange flavor may be less pronounced.

Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 147 reviews

This Orange Creamsicle Cake combines the nostalgic flavors of vanilla and orange in a moist, fluffy vanilla cake enhanced with orange gelatin and zest. Topped with a creamy, smooth orange-infused buttercream frosting, it’s a delightful dessert perfect for celebrations or anytime you crave a citrusy treat.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake

• 1 box vanilla cake mix
• 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange zest

Frosting

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 2 tbsp orange extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix with the orange gelatin mix thoroughly to blend the flavors well.
3. Add wet ingredients and beat: Pour in the orange juice, vegetable oil, and add eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Beat the mixture until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.
5. Prepare the frosting: Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously for a smooth texture. Add the heavy cream and orange extract if desired, and continue beating until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
6. Assemble the cake: Spread a layer of frosting on the top of the first cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing the sides and top for a neat finish.
7. Serve: Slice the cake into pieces and enjoy this refreshing orange creamsicle inspired treat with your family and friends.

Notes

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• You can substitute orange extract with more orange zest for a natural orange flavor.
• Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
• Store cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Keywords: Orange Creamsicle Cake, vanilla cake, orange gelatin, orange zest, orange frosting, buttery frosting, citrus cake, dessert, homemade cake