There’s something magical about the way certain flavors can instantly carry us back to our childhood. For many of us, the taste of a creamsicle — that sweet swirl of orange and vanilla — sparks memories of long summer afternoons, sticky fingers, and carefree joy. The Orange Creamsicle Cake revives those very memories in the most delightful, delicious way possible.
This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience. A vibrant, tender crumb kissed with citrusy brightness, layered with smooth, creamy frosting that melts on your tongue — every bite is a ticket back to simpler times. And what makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake so special is that it captures that blend of tangy and sweet while being incredibly easy to make, thanks to a little shortcut from the pantry.
This cake has become a family favorite in many households, especially during spring and summer. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just craving a sunny pick-me-up, this cake delivers. It’s the kind of dessert that gets passed around with smiles and seconds, that people request for potlucks, and that sparks conversations about favorite summer treats from years gone by.
Let’s bring a little sunshine to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavor-packed: The perfect balance of zesty orange and rich vanilla flavors.
- Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the orange juice and gelatin, the cake stays moist for days.
- Easy to Make: Starts with a box mix but tastes completely homemade.
- Great for Celebrations: A cheerful, eye-catching cake that brightens up any table.
- Customizable: Adjust the frosting, decoration, or add an extra layer of citrus with fresh orange zest.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
For the Cake:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup orange juice
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange zest
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- 2 tbsp orange extract (optional for extra flavor boost)
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake
This cake brings the joy of a popsicle into a tender, bakery-style dessert. Each step builds layers of flavor and texture that make this cake unforgettable.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans, then line them with parchment paper. This ensures a smooth release and beautiful presentation.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin powder. The gelatin adds vibrant flavor and a bit of a color boost that mimics the orange creamsicle hue.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
To the dry mix, add orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible), vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. The zest gives a natural, aromatic depth to the cake — like the smell of fresh citrus peels being grated in Grandma’s kitchen.
4. Beat Until Smooth
Use a hand or stand mixer to blend the batter until it’s completely smooth and slightly thick. This should take about 2–3 minutes. The result is a silky, fragrant batter that’s almost too good not to taste-test.
5. Pour and Bake
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell like a creamsicle in the best way.
6. Cool Completely
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before carefully turning them out onto wire racks. Cool completely before frosting, or you’ll risk melting the frosting.
7. Make the Frosting
In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy — about 3 minutes. Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Add heavy cream (or milk) and orange extract, then beat until the frosting is creamy, light, and spreadable.
8. Frost and Decorate
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting generously over the top. Add the second layer and continue frosting the top and sides. For an extra touch, sprinkle with more orange zest or add candied orange slices.
Helpful Tips:
- Zest First: Always zest your orange before juicing it. It’s much easier.
- Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Even Layers: Use a serrated knife to level your cake layers if they dome during baking.
- Chill the Frosting: If your kitchen is warm, chill the frosting for 10 minutes before applying for a neater finish.
Details:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Notes:
This cake pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also try a cream cheese frosting variation if you prefer a tangier contrast to the sweet orange.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice):
- Calories: ~400
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 35g
- Protein: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is orange Creamsicle poke cake?
Orange Creamsicle poke cake is a soft vanilla cake infused with orange gelatin, creating bright citrus flavor in every bite. It’s topped with a fluffy, creamy orange-vanilla frosting that mimics the nostalgic taste of an orange Creamsicle. Perfect for summer gatherings, this easy dessert is light, colorful, and refreshing.
How do you make an orange Creamsicle cake?
To make an orange Creamsicle cake, start with a vanilla or white cake base. After baking, poke holes and pour over a mix of orange gelatin and orange sherbet. Chill until set, then top with a light frosting made from whipped topping, orange juice, and zest for that classic citrus-vanilla flavor combo.
What is orange Creamsicle cake?
Orange Creamsicle cake is a layered dessert inspired by the classic frozen treat. It features a moist vanilla cake infused with orange gelatin and sherbet, then topped with a creamy, citrus-flavored frosting. The result is a light, sweet, and tangy dessert that’s perfect for summer celebrations.
What does orange Creamsicle taste like?
Orange Creamsicle combines bright, zesty orange flavor with smooth, rich vanilla. The citrus adds a refreshing tang, while the vanilla cream offers a sweet, creamy balance. Together, they create a nostalgic and satisfying taste reminiscent of the iconic frozen treat.
Storage Instructions:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temp before serving for best texture.
- Freezer: Store slices in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other citrusy delights:
Conclusion:
Orange Creamsicle Cake isn’t just dessert—it’s a memory in the making. Each slice brings joy, comfort, and the irresistible charm of orange and vanilla. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, this cake is sure to bring a smile and a burst of sunshine to your table.
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Orange Creamsicle Cake
Description
There’s something magical about the way certain flavors can instantly carry us back to our childhood. For many of us, the taste of a creamsicle — that sweet swirl of orange and vanilla — sparks memories of long summer afternoons, sticky fingers, and carefree joy. The Orange Creamsicle Cake revives those very memories in the most delightful, delicious way possible.
This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience. A vibrant, tender crumb kissed with citrusy brightness, layered with smooth, creamy frosting that melts on your tongue — every bite is a ticket back to simpler times. And what makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake so special is that it captures that blend of tangy and sweet while being incredibly easy to make, thanks to a little shortcut from the pantry.
This cake has become a family favorite in many households, especially during spring and summer. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just craving a sunny pick-me-up, this cake delivers. It’s the kind of dessert that gets passed around with smiles and seconds, that people request for potlucks, and that sparks conversations about favorite summer treats from years gone by.
Let’s bring a little sunshine to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
-
1 box vanilla cake mix
-
1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
-
1/2 cup vegetable oil
-
1 cup orange juice
-
3 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp orange zest
- For the Frosting:
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
4 cups powdered sugar
-
2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
-
2 tbsp orange extract (optional for extra flavor boost)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans, then line them with parchment paper. This ensures a smooth release and beautiful presentation.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin powder. The gelatin adds vibrant flavor and a bit of a color boost that mimics the orange creamsicle hue.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
To the dry mix, add orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible), vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. The zest gives a natural, aromatic depth to the cake — like the smell of fresh citrus peels being grated in Grandma’s kitchen.
4. Beat Until Smooth
Use a hand or stand mixer to blend the batter until it’s completely smooth and slightly thick. This should take about 2–3 minutes. The result is a silky, fragrant batter that’s almost too good not to taste-test.
5. Pour and Bake
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell like a creamsicle in the best way.
6. Cool Completely
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before carefully turning them out onto wire racks. Cool completely before frosting, or you’ll risk melting the frosting.
7. Make the Frosting
In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy — about 3 minutes. Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Add heavy cream (or milk) and orange extract, then beat until the frosting is creamy, light, and spreadable.
8. Frost and Decorate
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting generously over the top. Add the second layer and continue frosting the top and sides. For an extra touch, sprinkle with more orange zest or add candied orange slices.
Notes
This cake pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also try a cream cheese frosting variation if you prefer a tangier contrast to the sweet orange.