If you are searching for a bright and delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrusy goodness and creamy indulgence in every bite, the Orange Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. This luscious cake combines the tang of fresh oranges with the tender crumb of buttermilk-infused white cake, all topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that’s wonderfully lightened by Cool Whip and infused with even more orange flavor. It’s a perfect treat whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a refreshing twist on a classic dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays an essential role in balancing the flavors and textures of the cake. Fresh orange juice and zest elevate the cake’s brightness, the buttermilk keeps the crumb moist and tender, and the cream cheese frosting delivers that irresistible creamy finish.
- White cake mix: A reliable base that ensures a soft, fluffy crumb every time.
- Buttermilk (1¼ cups): Adds moisture and a subtle tang, enhancing the cake’s texture and flavor.
- Melted butter (¼ cup): Gives richness and a tender finish to the cake batter.
- Eggs (2): Help bind the ingredients and provide structure for a perfect rise.
- Fresh orange juice and zest (from 1 orange): Infuse the cake with natural citrus flavor and a fragrant aroma.
- Vanilla extract (1½ tsp): Balances the citrus notes with warm, sweet undertones.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star ingredient for the frosting, creamy and tangy to complement the cake.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the frosting while ensuring a smooth texture.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds extra sweetness and helps stabilize the frosting.
- Additional orange juice and zest (from 1 orange): Mixed into the frosting to brighten the flavor even more.
- Cool Whip (8 oz container): Lightens the frosting, making it fluffy and airy.
How to Make Orange Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures it’s ready to create the perfect environment for your cake to rise evenly. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch cake pan thoroughly so the cake releases easily without sticking or tearing. Taking this simple extra step will save you frustration later.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
Using a mixer, blend together the white cake mix, buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs for about 3 minutes until everything is incorporated and smooth. This thorough mixing helps develop a tender cake crumb. Then, add the freshly squeezed orange juice, zested peel, and vanilla extract. Stir just enough to combine these fragrant flavors into the batter without overmixing, which could toughen the cake.
Step 3: Bake Until Perfect
Pour your beautifully blended batter into the greased and floured pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step is crucial to achieving that moist but fully cooked center everyone dreams about.
Step 4: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling phase is often overlooked, but it’s essential before frosting your cake. Applying frosting to a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off, so patience here will reward you greatly.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting
For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, granulated sugar, the juice of half an orange, and the zest of a whole orange at medium speed until creamy and smooth. This combination forms a luscious frosting packed with citrus aroma and a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Gently fold in the Cool Whip to introduce a fluffy lightness that lifts the whole frosting. Spread this heavenly topping evenly over your cooled cake for the ultimate finish.
How to Serve Orange Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the beauty and flavor, consider adding extra garnishes. Thinly sliced candied orange slices or a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest on top of the frosting brings an elegant and fresh appearance. Fresh mint leaves can also add a touch of color and a subtle contrasting flavor.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dish of fresh berries. If you want to keep things classic, brewed coffee or a chilled glass of sparkling water with a splash of orange juice complement the flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, consider serving your Orange Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting Recipe as neatly cut slices on pretty dessert plates. If you’re feeling creative, layer the cake in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and orange segments for a stunning, multi-textured treat that will wow your guests visually and in flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays moist and delicious for several days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The frosting helps preserve freshness, but to keep the best texture and flavor, consume leftovers within 3 to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and consider adding fresh frosting or garnishes after thawing for the best experience.
Reheating
Reheating this cake isn’t usually necessary, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 10-second intervals just until it’s lukewarm. Avoid overheating as it can affect the texture of the frosting and cake.
FAQs
Can I use freshly squeezed orange juice instead of bottled?
Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a vibrant, natural flavor to both the cake and frosting. It’s superior in taste and aroma compared to bottled juice, making your cake even more special.
Is it possible to make this cake without Cool Whip?
You can substitute the Cool Whip with whipped heavy cream if you prefer a homemade alternative. Just whip the cream to stiff peaks and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture to maintain that light, airy texture.
Can I bake this cake in smaller pans?
Yes, you can divide the batter into two 8-inch round pans for a layered cake, but reduce the baking time to around 25-30 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.
What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?
Make a simple substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1¼ cups of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using. This mimics the acidity of buttermilk, which is crucial for the cake’s tender texture.
Can this Orange Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free white cake mix to ensure the cake is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well for the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its bright citrus flavor combined with the creamy frosting creates a dessert that feels both comforting and refreshing. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite cake that brings a sunny touch to any occasion.
Print
Orange Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A moist and flavorful Orange Buttermilk Cake with a zesty orange cream cheese frosting topped with Cool Whip, perfect for any occasion that calls for a bright, citrusy dessert.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1¼ cups buttermilk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
Frosting
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 1 (8-oz) container Cool Whip
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch cake pan thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix cake batter: In a mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat together the white cake mix, buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs for 3 minutes until well combined. Then stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, incorporating the citrus flavor fully.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it’s fully baked.
- Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This is essential before frosting to prevent melting.
- Prepare the frosting: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, granulated sugar, the juice of half an orange, and the zest of a whole orange at medium speed until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until evenly incorporated.
- Frost the cake: Spread the orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Chill the cake if desired before serving to let the frosting set.
Notes
- Ensure cake is completely cool before frosting to achieve the best texture.
- If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, add more zest or juice gradually to the frosting.
- For a dairy-free version, try substituting dairy ingredients with suitable non-dairy alternatives.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for freshness.
