Orange Creamsicle Cake (2025)

If you love the nostalgic taste of an Orange Creamsicle, this cake will bring back all the childhood memories in a delicious, homemade dessert. The perfect blend of zesty orange and creamy vanilla, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor.

With a moist orange-flavored cake base, creamy vanilla frosting, and a beautiful swirl of orange and white layers, this cake is perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or anytime you crave a refreshing dessert. Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to create a stunning and flavorful Orange Creamsicle Cake!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cake uses simple pantry ingredients to create its signature orange-and-cream flavor.

For the Cake:

• 1 box white or vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
• 1 package (3 oz) orange-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
• ¾ cup orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

the Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
• Orange food coloring (a few drops, for a marbled effect)

For Garnishing (Optional):

• Orange zest
• Mandarin orange slices
• White chocolate shavings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the white or vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions.
3. Stir in orange gelatin powder, orange juice, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the batter evenly into the two prepared cake pans.

2. Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
2. Add vanilla extract and orange extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. If you want a marbled effect, separate a portion of the frosting into a small bowl and add a few drops of orange food coloring.

4. Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream frosting on top.
2. Place the second cake layer over the frosting.
3. Cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream frosting, smoothing it out evenly.
4. To create an orange-and-white swirl effect, gently mix the orange-colored frosting with the white frosting on top of the cake.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle orange zest on top for extra citrus flavor.
2. Add mandarin orange slices and white chocolate shavings for a beautiful presentation.
3. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips for the Perfect Orange Creamsicle Cake

Accurate Ingredient Measurement

Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
Level off dry ingredients to avoid overpacking.
Measure liquids at eye level to ensure accuracy.

Oven Temperature & Baking Tips

Variations & Substitutions

Different Cake Flavors

Lemon Creamsicle Cake – Swap orange gelatin for lemon gelatin.
Strawberries & Cream Cake – Use strawberry gelatin for a berry twist.
Chocolate-Orange Cake – Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey kick.

Alternative Frosting Options

Cream Cheese Frosting – Adds a rich, tangy contrast to the orange cake.
Buttercream Frosting – A sweeter, more traditional cake frosting.
Orange Glaze – Mix powdered sugar with orange juice for a light drizzle.

How to Store Your Cake

Short-Term Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions:

1. Let the cake cool completely.
2. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
3. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
4. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Slice Smartly: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices.
Pair It Perfectly: Serve with vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for birthday parties, summer BBQs, or a weekend treat!

Conclusion

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is the ultimate blend of citrus and cream, delivering a moist, fluffy, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. The combination of orange zest, orange gelatin, and creamy vanilla frosting creates an irresistible, nostalgic treat reminiscent of the classic creamsicle popsicle.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try fun variations, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients, start baking, and enjoy this bright and flavorful dessert!

FAQ

1. What is an Orange Creamsicle Cake?

It’s a light and fluffy cake inspired by the classic Orange Creamsicle popsicle, featuring a zesty orange cake base and creamy vanilla frosting.

2. Can I make this cake without a cake mix?

Yes! Substitute the cake mix with a homemade vanilla cake batter using flour, sugar, eggs, and baking powder.

3. How do I make the frosting more stable?

✔ Use cold heavy cream for better whipping.
✔ Add a stabilizer like cornstarch or gelatin for longer-lasting peaks.

4. Can I make cupcakes instead?

Absolutely! Bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes, then frost as usual.

5. How can I make this a layer cake with more filling?

Add a layer of orange curd or vanilla pudding between the cake layers for extra flavor!

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