Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
If you’re looking to chase a wave of creamy citrus nostalgia, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is your golden ticket. Inspired by the classic frozen treat, each bite balances zesty orange brightness with silky creaminess, all nestled in a tender cake crumb. The luscious cream cheese frosting, kissed with orange juice and zest, wraps everything in a velvety, dreamy finish. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a summer get-together, or simply craving something refreshingly different, Orange Creamsicle Cake promises that vibrant, sunshine-sweet flavor with every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this cake lies in its simplicity—you’ll find these ingredients are likely already in your kitchen or just a short trip to the grocery store away. Each one is crucial for infusing this Orange Creamsicle Cake with layers of citrus and cream flavor, from the cake itself to the show-stopping frosting.
- 1 box white cake mix: The perfect shortcut for a soft, moist cake base, ready to soak up all that gorgeous citrus flavor.
- 1 cup orange juice: Brings that signature juicy tang and a sunny color to every bite.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Ensures the cake stays extra tender and moist, never dry.
- 4 large eggs: Add structure, richness, and help the cake rise into fluffy layers.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Packs a punch of natural orange fragrance and taste—zest makes all the difference.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Grounds everything with creamy undertones that mimic the classic creamsicle.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting): The secret to a tangy, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth frosting texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Provides richness and helps the frosting whip up light and fluffy.
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens and smooths out the frosting beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a subtle sweetness and complements the cream cheese.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (for frosting): Dials up the zesty citrus and keeps the frosting spreadable.
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (for frosting): Brightens up each forkful of icing with pops of fresh orange flavor.
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pans and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease two 8-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch pan with a bit of butter or nonstick spray. This simple step helps your Orange Creamsicle Cake release easily once it’s baked, making for perfect slices.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the white cake mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat everything together for about 2 minutes until your batter is smooth and delightfully fragrant. You’ll notice the batter turns a gorgeous pale orange—just the sight will make your mouth water.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan(s). If using two round pans, try to distribute the batter as evenly as possible for uniform layers. Slide the pans into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake will puff and turn lightly golden, filling your kitchen with irresistible citrusy sweetness.
Step 4: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, let the cake rest in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then carefully remove the layers and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here—a cooled cake holds frosting much better and ensures a picture-perfect finish.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Orange Frosting
While your cake cools, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until they’re creamy and free of lumps. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing as you go to prevent clouds of sweetness from flying through your kitchen. Finally, blend in the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest until the frosting is fluffy, light, and utterly dreamy.
Step 6: Frost and Finish
Once your cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top (and between the layers, if you’re going for a layer cake). Swirl it on as thickly as your heart desires. For the grand finale, sprinkle extra orange zest or artfully arrange a few orange slices on top for a burst of color and flair.
How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh orange zest or a few delicate slices of orange truly make this cake pop, offering both a decorative touch and an additional hit of citrus aroma. You might also try candied orange peel or even a chiffonade of basil for a unique twist that keeps everyone guessing. Every bite feels a little more festive with these fruity, fragrant garnishes.
Side Dishes
Pairing Orange Creamsicle Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream turns dessert into a celebration—think creamy, dreamy, and breezy all at once. Fresh berries on the side, like blueberries or raspberries, add a tart counterpoint, while a flute of sparkling wine highlights those sunny orange notes for special occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the cake into small cubes to serve as irresistible mini cake bites at parties or brunches. Another showstopper: turn it into parfaits by layering cubes with extra frosting and whipped cream in tall glasses. For a picnic-perfect twist, bake the batter as cupcakes, then pipe on that velvety orange frosting for a grab-and-go treat bursting with creamsicle nostalgia.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Orange Creamsicle Cake holds up beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover any leftover slices tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep them moist and protect that creamy frosting. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making it a fabulous treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
If you’d like to prep ahead or save some cake for later, you can freeze it unfrosted or fully frosted. Wrap pieces tightly in plastic and then foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. It will keep its delightful flavor and texture for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so there’s usually no need to reheat. However, if you’re after slightly warm slices (and don’t mind a softer frosting), just let a piece come to room temp or give it a quick 5-10 second zap in the microwave. It will taste like a fresh-baked treat all over again!
FAQs
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of bottled?
Absolutely! Fresh-squeezed orange juice delivers a lively, bright flavor that makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake even more irresistible. Just make sure you strain out the pulp unless you like a bit of texture.
How do I make the orange flavor stronger?
If you crave even bolder citrus, add 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract to the cake batter or the frosting. You can also increase the orange zest slightly—just be careful not to overpower the creaminess.
Can I make this Orange Creamsicle Cake as cupcakes?
Definitely! Simply divide the batter among lined cupcake tins and bake at the same temperature for about 18-20 minutes, checking for doneness. Frost each with the cream cheese icing for delightful handheld treats.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?
If cream cheese isn’t handy, you can substitute with mascarpone or use all butter for a classic buttercream. Keep in mind that the tangy element may be milder, but the cake will still sing with citrusy sweetness.
Is this Orange Creamsicle Cake recipe good for special occasions?
It’s ideal! With its vibrant color, nostalgic flavor, and luscious frosting, Orange Creamsicle Cake is guaranteed to brighten up birthdays, showers, picnics, or any time you want your dessert to steal the spotlight.
Final Thoughts
If cheerful, sun-kissed flavors make your heart sing, you owe it to yourself to bake this Orange Creamsicle Cake at least once. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser and a nostalgic favorite, perfect for sharing with your favorite people. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe whenever you crave a little citrusy celebration!
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Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of a classic creamsicle with this delightful Orange Creamsicle Cake. A light and moist white cake infused with fresh orange juice and zest, topped with a creamy and tangy orange cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch pan.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, orange juice, oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar gradually, then mix in the vanilla, orange juice, and orange zest. Beat until fluffy.
- Frost the cake: Frost the cooled cake and garnish with extra zest or orange slices if desired.
Notes
- For a stronger orange flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon orange extract to the batter or frosting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
