Orange Creamsicle Cake

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Orange Creamsicle Cake is a nostalgic dessert that brings together bright citrus flavor and smooth vanilla sweetness in every bite. Inspired by the classic frozen treat, this cake is soft, moist, and layered with a creamy orange-flavored frosting that feels both refreshing and indulgent.

This easy orange creamsicle cake recipe is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, summer gatherings, or anytime you want a cheerful dessert that stands out. Using a cake mix keeps things simple, while fresh orange juice and zest give it that homemade, bakery-style flavor.

If you love citrus desserts with a creamy twist, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy recipe using a cake mix base
• Bright orange flavor with classic vanilla notes
• Soft, moist crumb every time
• Perfect for parties, celebrations, or holidays
• Beginner-friendly with impressive results

About the Ingredients

Vanilla Cake Mix

The cake mix provides a reliable, fluffy base while saving time. It pairs perfectly with citrus flavors and creates a tender crumb.

Orange Gelatin Mix

Orange gelatin enhances color, flavor, and moisture, giving the cake its signature creamsicle taste.

Orange Juice

Fresh orange juice adds natural citrus brightness and keeps the cake moist. It also deepens the overall orange flavor.

Orange Zest

Orange zest intensifies the citrus aroma and gives the cake a fresh, vibrant finish without extra liquid.

Butter

Butter forms the base of the frosting, creating a rich, creamy texture that spreads beautifully.

Powdered Sugar

Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth, fluffy consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor
• Zest oranges before juicing for easier prep
• Beat the batter until smooth to avoid dense spots
• Let cake layers cool completely before frosting
• Use parchment paper for easy pan release

Pro Tips

• Chill the cake layers briefly for easier frosting
• Add a thin crumb coat before final frosting
• Garnish with orange slices or zest for presentation
• For stronger citrus flavor, add extra zest to the batter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin mix. Add the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

To make the frosting, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream and orange extract if using, then beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly. Slice and serve.

Variations

• Add a layer of vanilla or orange pudding between cake layers
• Use cream cheese frosting for extra tang
• Make cupcakes instead of a layer cake
• Add food coloring for a brighter orange hue
• Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers

How to Store

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container
• Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months
• Bring refrigerated cake to room temperature before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the layers a day in advance and frost before serving.

Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor.

How do I keep the cake moist?
Avoid overbaking and store the cake covered once cooled.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in additional pans.

Is this cake freezer-friendly?
The unfrosted cake layers freeze very well.

Caroline

Orange Creamsicle Cake

This orange creamsicle cake is soft, fluffy, and bursting with nostalgic citrus-vanilla flavor. Made with orange juice, zest, and a creamy orange frosting, it’s a bright and refreshing dessert perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 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
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 2 tbsp orange extract (optional)

Equipment

• mixing bowls
• hand mixer or stand mixer
• measuring cups and spoons
• Two 8-inch round cake pans
• Wire cooling racks

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin.
3. Add the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Beat until smooth.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes.
5. Allow the cakes to cool completely on wire racks before frosting.
6. Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar.
7. Mix in the heavy cream and orange extract if using, beating until light and fluffy.
8. Frost the cake layers, assemble, and decorate as desired.

Notes

For the best creamsicle flavor, balance the orange and vanilla carefully—too much extract can overpower the cake. This cake tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld.

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