Orange Creamsicle Cake

A light, citrusy delight with layers of orange and vanilla flavors, this Orange Creamsicle Cake captures the nostalgic taste of the classic frozen treat. Soft, moist cake infused with fresh orange zest and creamy vanilla frosting makes it perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a dreamy combination of refreshing citrus and rich creaminess. It’s incredibly moist, bursting with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for birthdays, summer parties, or just because—you’ll fall in love with every bite.

Pure Comfort

The blend of fresh orange zest, juice, and creamy vanilla creates a comforting yet refreshing treat. It’s like enjoying a frozen creamsicle but in cake form—pure joy in every slice!

Ingredients

Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp orange extract (optional)

Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange zest
• ½ tsp orange extract (optional)

What You Need

• Two 9-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Zester
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Time to Cook

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Flavoring

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in orange zest, vanilla, and orange extract.

5. Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk and orange juice. Mix until just combined.

6. Bake

Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool

Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Make Frosting

Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add heavy cream, vanilla, orange zest, and orange extract. Beat until fluffy.

9. Assemble

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the entire cake.

10. Serve

Slice and enjoy your delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake!

Make It Perfect

• Use fresh orange zest for a brighter citrus flavor.
• Chill the cake before frosting for easier assembly.
• For extra moisture, brush layers with orange syrup before frosting.

Mix It Up

• Swap vanilla frosting for cream cheese frosting.
• Add white chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Top with candied orange slices for a beautiful finish.

Perfect Partners

This cake pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a glass of cold milk.

Busy Day Hero

Make the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them. Just frost and serve when needed!

Work Ahead

Bake the cake a day before and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost just before serving.

Save Some For Later

Store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freeze individual slices for a quick treat later!

Everyone’s Happy

Kids and adults alike will adore this cake. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with classic orange creamsicle goodness.

Good For You Too

Oranges are full of vitamin C, and buttermilk adds a dose of calcium—a little indulgence with some benefits!

Easy Clean Up

Using parchment paper in cake pans makes for quick, mess-free removal. Plus, fewer dishes mean less hassle.

Switch It Up

• Make cupcakes instead of a cake for an easy-to-serve dessert.
• Layer with orange marmalade between the cake and frosting for extra zing.
• Drizzle with white chocolate ganache for a fancy finish.

Simply Perfect

Light, fluffy, and bursting with orange and vanilla flavors—this Orange Creamsicle Cake is simply perfect for any occasion.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Keep cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

4. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes before using.

5. Can I make this into cupcakes?

Absolutely! Bake at 350°F for about 18-20 minutes.

6. How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Add a pinch of salt and use less powdered sugar.

7. Can I use orange food coloring?

Yes! A drop of gel food coloring enhances the vibrant look.

Conclusion

This Orange Creamsicle Cake brings sunshine to every bite! With its dreamy citrus-vanilla flavor and soft, moist texture, it’s a nostalgic treat perfect for any gathering. Whether for a birthday or just because, this cake is bound to be a favorite!

Discover More Sweet Delights

If you loved this Orange Creamsicle Cake, you’ll definitely want to try other delicious treats! For a fun frozen-inspired dessert, check out this Oreo Ice Cream Cake. If you’re into fruity flavors, this Strawberry Chocolate Layer Cake will be a hit. Looking for something crispy and indulgent? These Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Wontons are a must-try! For a creative twist on classic flavors, don’t miss the Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. And if you need a refreshing fruit-based recipe, this Strawberry Purée makes a fantastic addition to cakes, drinks, and more. Enjoy exploring these delicious recipes!

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