Description
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful twist on classic vanilla cake, infused with orange gelatin and fresh orange juice for a citrusy burst. Topped with a creamy, buttery orange frosting, it’s a perfect dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of a creamsicle in cake form.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange zest
Frosting
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tbsp orange extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and the orange gelatin mix, ensuring they are well mixed for an even orange flavor throughout the cake.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Mix: Add the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Add the heavy cream and orange extract if using, then beat the frosting until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread frosting evenly on top. Stack the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake smoothly.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 10 servings and enjoy your delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake!
Notes
- Using fresh orange juice and zest adds natural citrus flavor and brightness to the cake.
- The orange gelatin mix not only adds flavor but also gives a subtle color and slight texture improvement.
- Adjust the amount of orange extract in the frosting to your preference or omit if you prefer a less intense orange flavor.
- Make sure cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- You can substitute butter with margarine for a dairy-free option but note flavor differences.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
