Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the refreshing citrus of oranges with creamy vanilla for a nostalgic flavor.
  • Easy to make using a simple cake mix base with an extra flair.
  • Perfectly moist and fluffy, topped with a light and airy frosting.
  • Customizable with garnishes like orange zest, slices, or white chocolate shavings.
  • Ideal for parties, potlucks, or a sweet midweek treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

  • Orange cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • Orange soda or orange juice
  • Vegetable oil
  • Eggs

For the Filling and Frosting:

  • Instant vanilla pudding mix
  • Cold milk
  • Orange extract (optional)
  • Whipped topping (Cool Whip)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Orange zest or slices
  • White chocolate shavings

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, orange soda (or juice), vegetable oil, and eggs.
  3. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes or until smooth.
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, cold milk, and orange extract (if using) until thickened.
  8. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
  9. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
  10. Add the second cake layer and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
  11. Garnish with orange zest, slices, or white chocolate shavings as desired.
  12. Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12 slices
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free orange cake mix.
  • Low-Sugar: Substitute sugar-free pudding mix and a light whipped topping.
  • Extra Citrus: Add orange zest to the cake batter for more zing.
  • Layered Dessert Cups: Serve the cake in individual cups with alternating layers of cake and frosting.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Reheating: No need to reheat; enjoy chilled for the best flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh orange juice instead of orange soda?

Yes, fresh orange juice works well and gives the cake a natural citrus flavor.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. What can I use instead of whipped topping?

You can use homemade whipped cream, but keep in mind it may not hold up as long as store-bought whipped topping.

4. Can I add food coloring for a brighter orange cake?

Yes, a few drops of orange food coloring can enhance the cake’s color.

5. Is the orange extract necessary?

No, it’s optional. The orange flavor from the soda or juice is usually sufficient.

6. Can I make this cake as cupcakes?

Yes, divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18–22 minutes.

7. How can I make the cake more moist?

Using orange juice instead of soda and adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter can increase moisture.

8. What type of chocolate works best for garnishing?

White chocolate shavings pair beautifully with the citrus flavors.

9. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?

Grease the pans thoroughly with butter or oil and dust with flour before adding the batter.

10. Can I use a bundt pan instead of round pans?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to 40–45 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is the perfect dessert for those who love sweet, citrusy flavors. With its moist layers and creamy frosting, it’s an irresistible treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply indulging in some homemade goodness, this cake is a winner every time. Give it a try and savor the taste of sunshine in every bite!


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Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delight in the nostalgic flavors of this Orange Creamsicle Cake! Moist, fluffy layers of orange-infused cake are topped with creamy vanilla frosting, creating the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any sweet craving.


Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box orange cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 1 cup orange soda or fresh orange juice
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs

For the Filling and Frosting:

  • 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 tsp orange extract (optional)
  • 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Orange zest or slices
  • White chocolate shavings

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pans:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • Mix the Batter:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, orange soda (or juice), vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
  • Bake the Cakes:
    Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool the Layers:
    Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Make the Frosting:
    In a bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, cold milk, and orange extract (if using) until thickened. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
  • Assemble the Cake:
    Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
  • Garnish and Chill:
    Decorate with orange zest, slices, or white chocolate shavings if desired. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free orange cake mix.
  • Enhance the citrus flavor by adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter.
  • This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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