A delightful cake with a light vanilla-orange flavor, topped with a creamy frosting that captures the nostalgic taste of a creamsicle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the refreshing citrusy taste of orange with the creamy richness of vanilla
- Easy to make using a cake mix as a base
- Perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any dessert craving
- The frosting is smooth, creamy, and adds an irresistible sweetness
- A great make-ahead dessert that tastes even better chilled
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, orange juice, oil, eggs, and orange zest until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving for best results.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the frosting for added texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cake for a citrus-chocolate combination.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make it suitable for dietary needs.
- Extra Orange Flavor: Add a few drops of orange extract to enhance the citrus taste.
- Whipped Topping: Substitute the frosting with whipped cream for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months; thaw before frosting.
- Reheating: Serve chilled, or let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
How long does this cake stay fresh?
The cake stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead and refrigerate it for better flavor.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought?
Yes, fresh orange juice enhances the flavor and provides natural sweetness.
Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?
Yes, simply adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes for cupcakes.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, lemon or white cake mix can also work well with this recipe.
What type of frosting works best?
Cream cheese frosting is ideal, but you can also use buttercream or whipped cream.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Be sure to store it in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.
Can I add nuts or fruits to the batter?
Yes, chopped nuts or dried fruits can be added for extra texture.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as the cake mix and frosting ingredients align with vegetarian preferences.
Can I make it without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or yogurt.
Conclusion
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a perfect blend of citrus and creaminess, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you serve it chilled on a warm day or as a festive treat, it never fails to delight.
PrintOrange Creamsicle Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Orange Creamsicle Cake with a light vanilla-orange flavor and creamy frosting, capturing the nostalgic creamsicle taste.
Ingredients
1 box vanilla cake mix
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, orange juice, oil, eggs, and orange zest until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving for best results.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh orange zest and juice to enhance the citrus taste.
- Chill the cake before serving for a refreshing, creamsicle-like experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Orange Creamsicle Cake