Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

Ready for a dessert that’s as bright and refreshing as a summer day? This Orange Creamsicle Cake is just the thing you didn’t know you needed. Imagine biting into a slice of soft, moist cake bursting with tangy orange flavor, paired with a creamy, smooth filling that’ll make you feel like you’re indulging in a frozen creamsicle on a hot day. This cake brings that nostalgic, sweet citrus treat right to your plate. Trust me, it’s a showstopper!

It’s light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, with that irresistible combination of citrus and cream that’s simply impossible to resist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in something refreshing, this cake is the perfect way to treat yourself. Oh, and did I mention how easy it is to make? You’re going to love it!

Why You’ll Love Orange Creamsicle Cake

This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles to faces and brightens up any gathering. Here’s why you’ll be obsessed:

Refreshing Citrus Flavor

The fresh orange zest and juice give this cake its signature tangy, citrusy punch. It’s like biting into a fresh creamsicle, but in cake form. Perfect for those hot days when you want something light and refreshing.

Super Moist and Fluffy

With the right balance of ingredients, this cake stays unbelievably moist and soft, thanks to the addition of sour cream and a little extra love. It’s like biting into a cloud of citrus goodness.

Sweet and Creamy

The orange cream filling adds a luscious, velvety layer of sweetness to every bite. It perfectly complements the tangy orange cake, creating that perfect creamy-citrus combo.

Easy to Make

Don’t let the looks fool you—this cake comes together in no time and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. A few simple steps and you’ve got a cake that looks like it’s straight out of a bakery.

Crowd-Pleasing

This cake is sure to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. Its bright, fresh flavors make it the perfect dessert for birthdays, summer parties, or whenever you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet light.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dreamy Orange Creamsicle Cake:

For the Cake: Cake Mix: To keep things simple, we’re using a store-bought cake mix—your favorite vanilla or white cake mix will work perfectly.

Orange Zest: Fresh orange zest brings that bold, citrusy flavor that makes this cake so refreshing.

Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds to the flavor and helps keep the cake moist.

Sour Cream: This adds richness and moisture, giving the cake that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Eggs: The classic binder that helps everything come together into a fluffy, tender cake.

Butter: For that rich, buttery flavor that makes the cake just perfect.

For the Cream Filling: Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the creamy filling, making it rich and smooth.

Cream Cheese: A little cream cheese for that tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness.

Powdered Sugar: Sweetens up the filling and gives it that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the filling.

For the Orange Glaze: Powdered Sugar: This is the base for your glaze, giving it that perfect, smooth finish.

Orange Juice: A little fresh orange juice to thin the glaze and add even more citrus flavor.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to create this luscious Orange Creamsicle Cake:

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine your cake mix, orange zest, orange juice, sour cream, eggs, and melted butter. Mix well until the batter is smooth and fully combined. The orange juice and zest will infuse the batter with that delightful citrus flavor.

Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, and bake in the preheated oven 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 wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Cream Filling

While the cake cools, make the cream filling. In a large bowl, beat together the heavy cream, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat until the filling reaches a thick, spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the cream filling on top. Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently.

Prepare the Orange Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and drizzle-able. You want the glaze to be thick enough to coat the cake but still thin enough to drizzle down the sides.

Glaze the Cake

Pour the orange glaze over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for that beautiful, glistening finish.

Chill and Serve

For the best results, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling and glaze to set. Slice it up, serve, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake

This cake is a showstopper on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate your dessert experience:

With Whipped Cream

For an extra creamy touch, serve slices of this cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. It adds a fluffy, light contrast to the cake’s rich filling.

Fresh Fruit

Pair this cake with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or citrus slices, to enhance the refreshing orange flavor. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

As a Birthday Cake

This cake is perfect for birthdays or celebrations! Its vibrant color and light, creamy texture make it the ideal treat for a party.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

Want to make it even more indulgent? Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even orange sherbet for a full creamsicle experience.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: This cake actually gets even better as it sits! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the layers of the cake before frosting. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Glaze Variations: If you want to make the glaze a little more indulgent, you can add a splash of cream for a thicker, richer glaze.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 slices
• Calories per serving: 350
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 32g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes cooling time)

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can make the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Q2: Can I use store-bought frosting instead of the cream filling?
A2: You can definitely use store-bought frosting if you’re short on time, but the cream cheese filling really adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the orange cake perfectly.

Q3: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A3: Yes! You can substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free version, and the rest of the ingredients should work just as well.

Q4: How should I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake stays moist and delicious!

Q5: Can I freeze the cake?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q6: Can I use a different citrus fruit?
A6: While orange is the star here, you can experiment with lemon or lime for a different citrus twist!

Q7: How can I make the glaze thicker?
A7: To thicken the glaze, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. If you want a thinner glaze, just add a little more orange juice.

Q8: Can I use a different cream for the filling?
A8: You can use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a slightly different flavor. You could also swap in heavy whipping cream for the cream cheese for a lighter, fluffier filling.

Q9: How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
A9: Make sure to keep the cake moist by using sour cream and adding the orange juice. Also, cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep the moisture in.

Q10: Can I decorate the cake with anything else?
A10: Absolutely! You could top the cake with orange slices, zest, or even a sprinkling of edible flowers for a beautiful finishing touch.

Conclusion

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a dreamy, refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress. With its bright citrus flavor, creamy filling, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this cake is the perfect way to bring a little sunshine to your day. Enjoy every sweet, citrusy bite!

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