Description
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful twist on a classic vanilla cake, infused with bright orange flavors from gelatin mix, juice, and zest, then finished with a creamy orange buttercream frosting. It’s perfect for those who love the nostalgic taste of creamsicles in cake form, offering a moist and flavorful dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
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 oven and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes don’t stick.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and the orange gelatin mix thoroughly.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Beat the mixture until the batter is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into 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: Beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat. Incorporate the heavy cream and orange extract (if using) and mix until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Assemble the cake: Spread a layer of frosting on the first cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing the sides and top.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 10 servings and enjoy the bright, creamy flavors reminiscent of a classic orange creamsicle.
Notes
- Using fresh orange zest along with the orange gelatin mix intensifies the citrus flavor.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a bit more orange extract to the frosting.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
