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Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

4.9 from 86 reviews

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful blend of classic vanilla cake and vibrant orange flavor, inspired by the nostalgic creamsicle treat. Moist and fluffy cake layers are infused with orange gelatin and zest, then generously frosted with a creamy orange buttercream that perfectly balances sweetness and citrus brightness.

Ingredients

Scale

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 and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and the orange gelatin mix thoroughly.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  4. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
  5. Prepare the Frosting: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream and orange extract (if using), then beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
  6. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and frost the top. Stack the second cake layer on top and apply a thin crumb coat. Then frost the entire cake evenly with the remaining frosting.
  7. Serve: Slice the finished cake and serve. Enjoy the bright and creamy flavors reminiscent of a classic Orange Creamsicle.

Notes

  • For more intense orange flavor, add extra orange zest or a splash of orange liqueur to the batter or frosting.
  • If you prefer a lighter frosting, reduce powdered sugar slightly and increase heavy cream.
  • The cake layers can be baked a day ahead and wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.
  • Ensure butter for frosting is at room temperature for smoother mixing.
  • Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor impact.

Keywords: Orange Creamsicle Cake, vanilla cake, orange gelatin, orange buttercream, citrus cake, homemade cake, classic desserts