Description
This Orange Creamsicle Cake combines the nostalgic flavors of an orange creamsicle in a moist, fluffy cake layered with a rich and creamy orange cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat that bursts with citrusy freshness and a smooth, creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box orange cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to ensure the cake layers release easily after baking.
- Mix cake batter. In a large bowl, combine the orange cake mix with sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully blended into a smooth batter.
- Pour batter and bake. Evenly divide and pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare frosting. While the cakes cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and flavor. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well until the frosting is smooth. Incorporate the orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest to infuse a bright citrus flavor.
- Assemble the cake. Once fully cooled, frost the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and spread frosting evenly over the top and sides.
- Garnish and serve. Garnish the cake with additional orange zest if desired, then slice, serve, and enjoy the flavorful creaminess.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- For an extra moist cake, avoid overbaking by checking the cake a few minutes before the recommended time.
- The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before frosting.
- Optional garnish of orange zest adds a fresh, colorful finishing touch.
