Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

Imagine a dessert that takes you straight back to childhood—biting into a cool, refreshing orange creamsicle on a hot summer day. Now, picture that same nostalgic flavor transformed into a soft, moist cake with layers of creamy vanilla and bright citrusy orange. That’s exactly what this Orange Creamsicle Cake delivers!

This cake is perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or when you simply crave something sweet and refreshing. It’s the ideal balance of tangy and creamy flavors, making it a delightful treat that’s both vibrant and comforting. If you love the combination of vanilla and orange, this cake is going to be your new favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

this …

There’s something magical about the combination of orange and vanilla. The citrus brings a fresh, slightly tangy brightness, while the creamy vanilla rounds it out with a smooth, rich sweetness. This recipe captures those flavors in the best possible way—light, fluffy layers infused with real orange zest and juice, complemented by a velvety vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting.

Another reason this cake stands out is its versatility. You can make it as a layered cake for an elegant dessert or bake it as a simple sheet cake for casual gatherings. It even works well as cupcakes for parties. Plus, the homemade orange glaze drizzled over the cake takes the flavor to a whole new level!

If you’re looking for a cake that’s not overly heavy but still indulgent, this is the perfect recipe. The natural citrus flavors balance out the sweetness, making it a refreshing option for any occasion.

Ingredients for Orange Creamsicle Cake

To create this deliciously light and flavorful cake, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients that bring out the best citrus-vanilla combination. Each ingredient plays an essential role in achieving the soft, moist texture and the signature creamsicle taste.

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for structure and softness)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (to help the cake rise beautifully)
• ½ teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (adds moisture and richness)
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar (for sweetness and texture)
• 4 large eggs (adds structure and tenderness)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (for concentrated citrus flavor)
• ½ cup fresh orange juice (adds natural orange taste)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (to bring out the creamsicle flavor)
• 1 cup whole milk (creates a moist crumb)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (for an extra citrus touch)

For the Orange Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended!):

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

This combination of ingredients ensures a cake that is light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh, natural orange flavor.

How Much Time Will You Need?

This cake is relatively simple to prepare but does require some time for baking and cooling. Here’s a rough estimate:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Bake time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling time: 30 minutes
• Frosting and decorating: 15 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour 40 minutes

How to Make This Orange Creamsicle Cake

Achieving that perfect balance of fluffy cake and rich frosting is easy if you follow these step-by-step instructions carefully.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving the cake a light texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Flavorings

One at a time, add the eggs, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. The batter might look slightly curdled at this stage, but that’s completely normal.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth out the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and orange zest. Whip until smooth and fluffy.

Step 9: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Place one cake layer on a plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Add the second layer and cover the entire cake with frosting. Smooth it out for a clean look.

Step 10: Add the Orange Glaze (Optional)

Whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice, then drizzle it over the cake for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to modify the recipe, here are some great substitutions:

• Butter substitute: Use an equal amount of coconut oil or margarine.
• Milk substitute: Almond milk or oat milk can work, but whole milk gives the best texture.
• Orange juice substitute: Bottled juice is fine, but fresh-squeezed provides a better flavor.
• Frosting alternative: Swap the buttercream for a tangy cream cheese frosting if you prefer a less sweet topping.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Creamsicle Cake

To elevate your dessert experience, pair this cake with:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – The classic pairing that enhances the creamsicle effect.
2. Fresh Berries – Strawberries or raspberries add a slight tartness that complements the sweet cake.
3. Whipped Cream – Light and airy, it adds an extra layer of creaminess without overpowering the flavors.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A cake as beautiful and delicious as this deserves to be served in a way that highlights its bright, citrusy flavors and creamy texture.

• Use a Cake Stand: Elevate the presentation by placing the cake on a cake stand. This makes it the centerpiece of your dessert table.
• Garnish with Orange Slices & Zest: Thinly sliced oranges or a sprinkle of fresh orange zest over the frosting add a vibrant, fresh look.
• Pipe Decorative Frosting Swirls: Use a piping bag to create swirls or rosettes along the edges for a bakery-style finish.
• Serve Chilled: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cake for 20-30 minutes before serving. It enhances the creamsicle flavor and makes slicing easier.
• Pair with a Drink: Serve with a glass of fresh orange juice or vanilla-flavored milk for a full creamsicle experience.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Want to make this cake even more irresistible? Here are some expert tips:

• Use Fresh Orange Juice & Zest – Freshly squeezed juice gives a brighter, more natural citrus flavor compared to store-bought.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Let your butter, eggs, and milk sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking. This ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
• Do Not Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Chill the Cake Before Frosting – If your cake is too warm, the frosting will melt. Let the cake cool completely, and even refrigerate for 15 minutes before frosting.
• Use Buttermilk for Extra Moisture – Swap out regular milk for buttermilk for an ultra-soft and tender crumb.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced bakers can run into trouble with cakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Sifting Step – Sifting the dry ingredients prevents lumps and ensures even distribution, resulting in a lighter cake.
• Not Preheating the Oven Properly – A cold oven can lead to uneven baking, while an oven that’s too hot can dry out the cake. Always preheat your oven for at least 15 minutes before baking.
• Overbaking the Cake – Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with just a few crumbs, the cake is done. Overbaking can make it dry.
• Using Cold Butter for Frosting – Cold butter won’t blend well with the sugar, resulting in a lumpy frosting. Let it soften at room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the Cooling Step – Frosting a warm cake will cause the icing to melt and slide off. Be patient and let it cool completely.

How to Store It

To keep your Orange Creamsicle Cake fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips:

• At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within 24 hours, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it in a cool, dry place.
• In the Refrigerator: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving to soften.
• In the Freezer: Wrap individual cake slices in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQ

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost the cake the day you plan to serve it.

2. Can I use a cake mix instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely! Use a vanilla or orange-flavored cake mix and enhance it with fresh orange zest and juice for a homemade touch.

3. What type of oranges should I use?

Navel oranges or Valencia oranges work best because they are sweet and juicy, adding natural flavor without too much acidity.

4. Can I make this as cupcakes?

Yes! Pour the batter into cupcake liners, filling them ¾ full, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes.

5. How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Add a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of lemon juice to balance out the sweetness. You can also use cream cheese frosting for a tangier alternative.

Print