Orange Creamsicle Cake

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 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Nostalgic Flavor: This cake brings back memories of enjoying orange creamsicle popsicles on warm days, delivering the same beloved taste in a moist, fluffy cake form.
  • Simple Preparation: Utilizing a boxed cake mix as its base, this recipe streamlines the baking process, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
  • Versatile Presentation: Whether served as a simple sheet cake or dressed up as a layered masterpiece, this cake adapts to both casual family gatherings and special celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) white or vanilla cake mix
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Orange Cream Glaze (optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

For the Frosting:

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional, for extra flavor)

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

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
    • Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
  3. Bake the Cake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Prepare the Orange Cream Glaze (Optional):
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
    • Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to seep into the cake.
  5. Make the Frosting:
    • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
    • Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
    • Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice (if using) until well combined.
  6. Frost the Cake:
    • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
    • For a layered cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a portion of the frosting on top, then place the second layer over it and frost the top and sides.
  7. Serve:
    • Slice and enjoy the cake immediately, or refrigerate it for a chilled treat.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including cooling and frosting)

Variations

  • Citrus Twist: Substitute lemon or lime juice and zest for the orange components to create a different citrus flavor profile.
  • Layered Presentation: Bake the cake in two 9-inch round pans and layer them with frosting in between for an elegant presentation.
  • Cupcakes: Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 15-20 minutes to create individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What type of cake mix should I use?

A white or vanilla cake mix works best for this recipe, as it allows the orange flavors to shine through.

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought?

Yes, fresh orange juice will enhance the natural citrus flavor of the cake.

Is the orange cream glaze necessary?

The glaze is optional but adds an extra layer of orange flavor and moisture to the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Frost it on the day you plan to serve for the best texture.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, you can add a pinch of salt or use less powdered sugar, adjusting to taste.

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Orange Creamsicle Cake

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: ~1 hour (including cooling and frosting)
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of an Orange Creamsicle Cake, a delightful dessert blending bright citrus notes with creamy vanilla. Made with a simple cake mix base, fresh orange juice, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a sheet cake or layered for an elegant touch, this refreshing treat will transport you back to summer days with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) white or vanilla cake mix
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Orange Cream Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

For the Frosting:

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Cake Batter:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
  2. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and well combined.

Bake the Cake:

  1. Pour batter into the prepared pan(s).
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Orange Cream Glaze (Optional):

  1. Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak in.

Make the Frosting:

  1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract, orange zest, and optional orange juice.

Frost the Cake:

  1. Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  2. For a layered cake, frost between layers, then cover the top and sides.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Slice and serve immediately, or refrigerate for a chilled dessert.

Notes

  • For a stronger orange flavor, add a few drops of orange extract.
  • Make it extra moist by brushing the cake layers with a bit of orange juice before frosting.
  • Chill the cake before serving for a firmer texture and enhanced flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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