If you’re looking for a bright, nostalgic dessert that bursts with citrusy goodness, you have to try this Orange Jello Cake With Orange Glaze Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of fluffy cake and zesty glaze, with just the right amount of sweetness to keep you coming back for more. Whether for a family gathering or a weeknight treat, this cake is as inviting as a warm hug, making it a must-have in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry and fridge. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that moist, flavorful cake and the tangy glaze that brings the whole dessert to life.
- White or yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): The base that gives this cake its soft, fluffy texture and easy preparation.
- Orange Jello (3 oz): Adds a vibrant citrus flavor and beautiful orange hue to the cake batter.
- Large eggs (4): Help bind the ingredients together, ensuring a perfect rise and tender crumb.
- Vegetable oil (¾ cup): Keeps the cake moist and rich without overwhelming it with butteriness.
- Water (¾ cup): Essential for the batter consistency, allowing it to blend perfectly.
- Orange juice (½ cup + 2 tablespoons): Enhances the citrus notes in both the batter and glaze, adding fresh brightness.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Provides smooth sweetness in the glaze, balancing the tartness of the orange.
- Orange zest (1 teaspoon): Packs a concentrated orange aroma and a subtle bite in the glaze for that extra wow factor.
How to Make Orange Jello Cake With Orange Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your batter is mixed. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and help the cake come out flawlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the white or yellow cake mix with the dry orange Jello powder. This blend is what gives the cake its distinctive orange flavor and color, so be sure to mix them well before adding the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients and Blend
Next, add the eggs, vegetable oil, water, and half a cup of orange juice to the dry mixture. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the batter is smooth, with no lumps. This step is key to creating a light and fluffy texture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—no sticky crumbs or wet batter!
Step 5: Prepare the Orange Glaze
While the cake bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze is what elevates the cake from great to unforgettable with its sweet and tangy finish.
Step 6: Poke Holes and Add the Glaze
Once the cake is out and slightly cooled for about 10 minutes, use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly across the surface. This allows the glaze to seep deep into the cake, infusing each bite with flavor and keeping it moist.
Step 7: Drizzle and Soak
Slowly drizzle the orange glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into every crevice. This is the magic moment where the cake truly absorbs that delightful citrus sweetness and sparkle.
Step 8: Cool Completely Before Serving
Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack before slicing. This resting time ensures the glaze sets perfectly and the flavors meld together into a cohesive, delicious dessert.
How to Serve Orange Jello Cake With Orange Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, consider garnishing slices with fresh orange slices or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios for color and crunch. A dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely creamy contrast to the tangy glaze.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a light cup of tea or fresh-brewed coffee to balance the citrus sweetness. For a heartier dessert experience, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the cake in clear glass dishes to showcase its bright orange layers, or cut it into playful shapes using cookie cutters for parties. You can also layer chunks of the cake with fresh berries and whipped cream to create a stunning trifle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Orange Jello Cake With Orange Glaze Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the cake moist and the glaze fresh-tasting, ready to enjoy later.
Freezing
This cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if you want the cake slightly warm. Avoid overheating so the glaze doesn’t melt or become too liquidy.
FAQs
Can I use sugar-free Jello instead of regular orange Jello?
Absolutely! Sugar-free orange Jello can be used to reduce calories, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the sweetness level and texture of the cake.
Is it necessary to poke holes in the cake before adding the glaze?
Yes, poking holes allows the glaze to penetrate the cake deeply, making every bite moist and flavorful rather than having glaze just on the surface.
Can I substitute fresh orange juice with bottled juice?
Yes, bottled orange juice works just fine. Just make sure to choose a variety without added sugar or preservatives for the freshest taste.
What type of cake mix works best for this recipe?
Either white or yellow cake mix works perfectly. The orange Jello will provide enough vibrant flavor, so choose based on your preference for the base flavor.
How long does this cake stay fresh at room temperature?
The cake is best kept refrigerated due to the orange glaze. If kept at room temperature, consume within a day to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Orange Jello Cake With Orange Glaze Recipe that feels both comforting and sunny, perfect for anytime you need a little brightness in your day. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and sure to become a favorite that you’ll want to bake again and again. Go ahead, let this cake bring a splash of orange joy to your table!
Print
Orange Jello Cake With Orange Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Jello Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert combining the classic ease of a boxed cake mix with the bright, citrusy taste of orange Jello. Topped with a sweet orange glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box white or yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 package orange Jello powder (3 oz)
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup water
- ½ cup orange juice
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the white or yellow cake mix with the orange Jello powder until evenly blended.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the eggs, vegetable oil, water, and orange juice to the dry mixture. Use an electric mixer at medium speed to beat the batter for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and well combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Prepare the glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl until smooth and free of lumps.
- Cool and poke holes: After removing the cake from the oven, allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly across the top of the warm cake, which will help the glaze soak in.
- Apply the glaze: Drizzle the prepared orange glaze over the warm cake, letting it seep into the holes and flavor the cake throughout.
- Final cooling and serving: Let the cake cool completely at room temperature before slicing into 12 servings and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the white or yellow cake mix with a gluten-free variety if needed, but adjust baking time accordingly.
- For a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a little extra orange zest to the batter.
- This cake is best served the same day but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The glaze soaks best when applied while the cake is still warm.
- If a thicker glaze is preferred, reduce the orange juice in the glaze slightly.
