Description
Sweet memories of childhood mingle with the delightful Orange Creamsicle Cake, blending nostalgic citrus zest and creamy vanilla dreams. Dessert enthusiasts will discover a refreshing slice of pure indulgence that whispers summer’s playful spirit in every delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz/432 g) white or vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup (240 ml) orange juice
- 1 small box (3 oz/85 g) orange-flavored gelatin
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Frosting Ingredients:
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh orange slices
- Orange sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by warming the oven to 350F (175C). Coat two 9-inch round cake pans with grease and flour, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Create a vibrant orange cake batter by blending cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, orange juice, and orange zest in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture. Incorporate orange gelatin powder to enhance the citrusy flavor and intensify the batter’s color.
- Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared pans, ensuring balanced cake layers. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. Verify doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean and dry.
- Allow the cakes to rest in their pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire cooling rack. Permit the layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Craft a creamy frosting by whipping softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually fold in powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly between additions. Introduce vanilla extract for depth of flavor. Adjust the consistency with heavy cream or milk, adding liquid sparingly.
- Assemble the cake by positioning the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a luxurious layer of frosting across the surface. Carefully place the second cake layer on top, then generously coat the entire cake with remaining frosting.
- Enhance the presentation by garnishing with delicate orange zest, fresh orange segments, or celebratory sprinkles. Refrigerate briefly to set the frosting, or serve at room temperature for a soft, inviting texture.
Notes
- Always check cake mix package for specific mixing instructions to ensure the best texture.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for a more vibrant and intense citrus flavor compared to store-bought juice.
- Chill the cream cheese and butter before making frosting to achieve a smoother, more stable consistency.
- For a lighter version, swap full-fat ingredients with low-fat alternatives like reduced-fat cream cheese or milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 303
- Sugar: 34 g
- Sodium: 265 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg