Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

Orange creamsicle cake is a vibrant, citrusy dessert inspired by the nostalgic flavors of the classic orange creamsicle treat. This cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that balances the tangy orange perfectly. It’s the ultimate dessert for summer parties, birthdays, or anytime you’re craving a refreshing and sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Refreshing: Bursting with fresh orange flavor, this cake is a citrus lover’s dream.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this a breeze to prepare.
• Moist and Tender: The combination of orange juice and zest ensures a soft, flavorful crumb.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress family and friends.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with variations or decorative toppings.

Ingredients

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

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Eggs
• Fresh orange juice
• Orange zest
• Vanilla extract
• Whole milk or buttermilk

For the Creamsicle Frosting:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh orange juice
• Orange zest
• Vanilla extract

Directions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients:
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Creamsicle Frosting:

1. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
   • Stir in orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar or orange juice as needed.
2. Frost the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
3. Decorate:
   • Garnish with additional orange zest, candied orange slices, or sprinkles, if desired.

Serve:

• Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling and Frosting Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

• Orange Dream Cupcakes: Use the batter to make cupcakes and frost individually.
• Layered Flavors: Add a layer of whipped cream or orange curd between the cake layers for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
• White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the frosted cake for a decorative touch.
• Sheet Cake: Bake the batter in a 9×13-inch pan for a simpler presentation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
• Serving: Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Yes, but freshly squeezed orange juice will provide the best flavor.

How do I ensure the cake is moist?

Use room temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing, and don’t overbake.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free milk and cream cheese.

What’s the best way to zest an orange?

Use a fine grater or microplane, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath the zest.

Can I make the frosting less sweet?

Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to suit your taste, but note it may alter the frosting’s texture.

Can I add food coloring?

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

How do I avoid frosting crumbs?

Apply a thin “crumb coat” layer of frosting, chill the cake for 20 minutes, then frost fully.

Can I substitute oranges with another citrus fruit?

Yes, lemons, limes, or grapefruits can be used for a different citrus twist.

Can I add orange extract to enhance the flavor?

Absolutely! A teaspoon of orange extract can boost the citrus flavor.

Is this cake suitable for stacking?

Yes, as long as the frosting is firm enough to hold the layers securely.

Conclusion

Orange creamsicle cake is a delightful dessert that brings the refreshing flavors of orange and cream together in a moist, tender cake. With its creamy frosting and vibrant citrus flavor, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is guaranteed to impress!

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