Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures all the nostalgia of a favorite childhood treat, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is your ticket to happiness. Imagine the sunny flavor of creamy orange popsicles, tucked into a super-moist cake, and topped with a dreamy orange cream frosting. This cake brings irresistible brightness to every bite, and it’s an absolute showstopper for birthdays, backyard barbecues, or simple weeknight cravings. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to assemble and guaranteed to leave everyone smiling.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather just a handful of simple ingredients to create this unforgettable treat. Each one plays an important role in dialing up the vibrant flavor, silky texture, and signature color that make Orange Creamsicle Cake so special.

• White cake mix: Makes the base extra fluffy, moist, and reliable every time—plus, it saves prep time!
• Orange juice: Infuses the cake with a punch of citrusy sweetness you can truly taste in every forkful.
• Vegetable oil: Ensures the crumb stays tender and delicate, never dry.
• Large eggs: Give the cake structure and help with rising to achieve that perfect, light texture.
• Orange zest: Adds a wonderfully fragrant burst of natural orange flavor and color.
• Orange gelatin powder: Intensifies the creamsicle flavor and gives the cake its sunset-orange look.
• Vanilla pudding mix (instant): Brings creaminess and just the right amount of vanilla sweetness to the frosting.
• Cold milk: Activates the pudding, ensuring your frosting turns out light and smooth.
• Orange extract (optional): A single teaspoon is enough to take the orange cream flavor over the top.
• Whipped topping (thawed): Folds into the pudding for a dreamy, pillowy finish that’s never too heavy.
• Orange zest or slices (for garnish): The finishing touch for a pop of color and fresh citrus aroma.

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously. This will ensure your cake releases easily and gives you those beautiful, clean slices later on.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and orange gelatin powder. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes with an electric mixer. You’ll know it’s ready when the batter is smooth, rich, and streaks of zest and orange color swirl throughout.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking dish. Slide it into the center of the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is done when the top springs back lightly and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Try not to open the oven too often—a steady temperature helps it rise just right!

Step 4: Cool Completely

Once your cake is golden and fragrant, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool fully in the pan. This is important—frosting a warm cake can lead to a melted mess rather than a fluffy finish.

Step 5: Whip Up the Orange Cream Frosting

Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and orange extract (if you want an extra citrus boost). Beat until the pudding thickens, which should take about 2 minutes. Gently fold in the whipped topping so the frosting turns airy, creamy, and full of flavor. Don’t overmix—just combine until smooth!

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Spread the orange cream frosting evenly over your cooled Orange Creamsicle Cake. For a finishing touch, scatter more orange zest or lay a few thin orange slices on top. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so every slice cuts cleanly and the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh orange zest brightens each bite and delivers a fresh aroma that’s simply irresistible. For special occasions, lay thin rounds or triangles of fresh orange slices on top—each piece looks like it belongs on a bakery display.

Side Dishes

Serve each slice with a handful of juicy berries on the side, like strawberries or raspberries, to add color and a tangy balance. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it a truly decadent citrus and cream dessert that everyone will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the Orange Creamsicle Cake into squares and serving in cupcake wrappers for a party-friendly bite. Or, for a whimsical touch, layer cubes of cake and frosting in clear glasses with a spoon for fun Orange Creamsicle parfaits—great for picnics or summer gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain its moistness and creamy frosting texture. It keeps well for up to 4 days—just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent the frosting from picking up any fridge odors.

Freezing

The Orange Creamsicle Cake (without frosting) freezes beautifully. Let the cake cool fully, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and frost fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

You won’t want to reheat the frosted cake, as the creamy topping is best enjoyed chilled. However, if you freeze the cake base, let it come to room temperature before adding the frosting. This helps maintain the perfect creamsicle flavor and consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of gelatin for this cake?

While orange gelatin gives the classic creamsicle taste, you can experiment with other citrus flavors like lemon or tangerine for fun variations. Just know, the familiar Orange Creamsicle Cake flavor comes from using orange gelatin specifically.

Do I have to use orange extract in the frosting?

No, the orange extract is totally optional! If you love a strong orange flavor, add it in. If not, the zest and juice in the cake will already provide plenty of that creamsicle tang.

What’s the best way to zest an orange?

Wash your orange well and use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the bright orange part of the peel. Avoid the bitter white pith underneath for the sweetest, most aromatic flavor in your Orange Creamsicle Cake.

Can this recipe be made as cupcakes?

Absolutely! Pour the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at the same temperature, reducing baking time to 18–22 minutes. They make a perfect, portable version of Orange Creamsicle Cake for parties and lunchboxes.

Is this cake good for making ahead?

Yes, in fact Orange Creamsicle Cake often tastes even better the next day after chilling. The flavors have time to meld, and the frosting sets up beautifully, making it perfect for prepping ahead for events or busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a special occasion to add a splash of sunshine to your day. This Orange Creamsicle Cake is easy to love and even easier to make, promising smiles with every slice. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—your inner child (and your hungry guests) will thank you!

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