Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate nostalgic treat, look no further than this Orange Creamsicle Cake. This vibrant dessert is a sunshine-infused twist on a classic sheet cake, combining zesty orange flavors with a dreamy vanilla frosting—just like your favorite childhood popsicle, but in cake form. Every slice delivers moist, citrusy bliss balanced by a fluffy, creamy finish, making it a must-bake for summer cookouts, birthday parties, or whenever you need a little burst of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how these simple, straightforward ingredients each play a starring role, transforming pantry staples into a cake that’s as impressive as it is easy to make. Here’s what brings this Orange Creamsicle Cake together, plus a few handy tips:
- White cake mix: Provides a soft, neutral base that lets the orange flavor shine and keeps prep effortless.
- Orange juice: Infuses the cake with fresh, tangy citrus flavor and extra moisture.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures the crumb stays incredibly tender; you can substitute canola oil if preferred.
- Large eggs: Bind the batter and give the cake structure and richness.
- Orange zest: Packs a punch of aromatic citrus oils that makes the flavor absolutely irresistible.
- Orange gelatin powder: Delivers that signature creamsicle orange color and a boost of sweet, tangy taste.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Thickens the frosting and adds classic vanilla creaminess.
- Cold milk: Activates the pudding mix and lightens the frosting so it’s billowy and smooth.
- Orange extract (optional): Optional but highly recommended for an even more intense orange twist.
- Whipped topping (thawed): Folds into the frosting, making it fluffy and easy to spread while keeping things light.
- Orange zest or slices (for garnish, optional): Adds a finishing pop (and makes your cake look bakery-worthy!).
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coat of oil to ensure your Orange Creamsicle Cake releases easily after baking, leaving every slice picture-perfect.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and orange gelatin powder. Beat everything together with an electric mixer on medium speed for about two minutes. The mixture should be smooth, thick, and wonderfully fragrant—this is where the magic really begins!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour your cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack—this step is vital because it keeps the frosting from melting and sliding right off.
Step 4: Prepare the Orange Cream Frosting
While the cake cools, make your supremely creamy frosting. Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and orange extract (if using) in a bowl. Mix for about two minutes until everything thickens up nicely. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until you have a light, fluffy mixture that’s ready for spreading.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting generously across the top. If you’re feeling fancy, add curls of orange zest or arrange thin slices of orange for a vibrant garnish. For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving—this helps the flavors settle and gives every bite that cool, creamy finish.
How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh orange zest or a scattering of paper-thin orange slices instantly elevates this Orange Creamsicle Cake from simple to stunning. You could also use a handful of edible flowers or a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair. Serve chilled, and watch your guests’ eyes light up with the first bite!
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with everything from seasonal fruit salads to scoops of vanilla bean ice cream. For a lighter touch, serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. If you’re planning a party, a citrusy sparkling beverage or classic lemonade makes a fabulous match.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into cubes and threading them onto skewers with fresh berries for a playful dessert kabob. Or, use a round biscuit cutter for mini individual cakes, perfect for parties. Hosting brunch? Display squares of Orange Creamsicle Cake on a tiered stand with extra orange wheels for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake covered in the refrigerator to keep the frosting set and the cake moist. It will stay fresh for up to four days—and just might taste even better on day two.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to two months, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. If you want to freeze a frosted cake, first chill it to set the frosting, then wrap slices individually. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best taste and texture.
Reheating
Orange Creamsicle Cake is meant to be served chilled, not warm. If your cake has been in the freezer, let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before enjoying. There’s no need to reheat, which makes it the perfect low-stress dessert option!
FAQs
Can I use fresh oranges instead of packaged orange juice?
Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice will make the cake even more vibrant and fragrant. Just be sure to strain out any seeds or pulp for a perfectly smooth batter.
What if I don’t have orange gelatin powder?
While orange gelatin is key for both flavor and color, you can substitute with a little extra orange zest and a few drops of natural food coloring. However, the classic Orange Creamsicle Cake experience comes from that signature jello boost!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, in fact, this cake benefits from a few hours (or even overnight) in the fridge. The flavors meld together, and the texture becomes delightfully creamy—perfect for prepping in advance of parties or gatherings.
Is it possible to use a different cake mix?
You can try a yellow cake or vanilla cake mix for subtle flavor shifts, but white cake mix best lets the citrus notes shine through. Avoid chocolate or spice varieties for this particular recipe.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Opt for a dairy-free whipped topping and plant-based milk for the frosting. Double-check your pudding mix to make sure it doesn’t contain dairy, and you’ll have an irresistible lactose-free Orange Creamsicle Cake!
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably joyful about biting into a chilled slice of Orange Creamsicle Cake. Whether you’re sharing it at a summer celebration or enjoying a nostalgic treat on a quiet afternoon, this cake always delivers big smiles and bright flavors. Give it a try—the combination of citrus and cream just might become your new favorite dessert tradition!
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Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the refreshing flavors of orange and cream in a moist and fluffy cake. Topped with a creamy orange frosting, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin powder
For the Orange Cream Frosting:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
- 8 oz whipped topping (thawed)
- orange zest or slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the cake: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, orange juice, oil, eggs, orange zest, and orange gelatin powder. Beat with an electric mixer for 2 minutes. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- Make the frosting: Whisk pudding mix with milk and orange extract until thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over cooled cake.
- Garnish and chill: Garnish with orange zest or slices, if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This cake is best served chilled for a refreshing treat.
- For extra citrus flavor, add a drizzle of orange juice over the cake before frosting.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
