Orange Creamsicle Cake

This easy Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of summer! The vibrant orange flavor combined with a fluffy vanilla frosting makes it ideal for picnics, barbecues, and birthday parties. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With a simple cake mix, preparation is quick, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of orange and vanilla creates a refreshing taste that stands out.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Suitable for summer parties, birthdays, or as a delightful dessert any day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This cake serves 24 people, ensuring everyone gets a slice of this deliciousness.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip this up using basic kitchen tools.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Orange Creamsicle Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without splatter.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures smooth batter consistency.
• Baking pan: A sturdy 9×13 inch pan helps the cake bake evenly.
• Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool properly, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup milk (or vanilla almondmilk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Poke Filling

• 3.4 ounces orange JELLO
• 1 ¼ cup boiling water
• ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice

For the Topping

• 15 ounces can of mandarin oranges (do not drain)
• 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well blended.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for approximately 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Poke Filling

In another bowl, dissolve the orange JELLO in boiling water. Stir well until fully dissolved. Add fresh squeezed orange juice and mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Create Pokes in Your Cake

Once cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the top of your cake. Pour the JELLO mixture evenly over the top so it seeps into all the holes.

Step 6: Add Toppings

In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and Cool Whip until smooth. Spread this mixture over your JELLO-covered cake. Top with mandarin oranges for added flavor and decoration.

Enjoy your delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake chilled!

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake

Serving your Orange Creamsicle Cake can be as delightful as baking it. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or even a cozy family dinner. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Individual Servings

• Serve in cups: Cut the cake into squares and place them in clear cups for an attractive presentation.
• Garnish with fruit: Top each slice with a slice of fresh orange or a few mandarin oranges for added color and flavor.

With Ice Cream

• Pair with vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the orange flavor perfectly.
• Try sorbet: For a refreshing twist, serve alongside orange or lemon sorbet.

Toppings

• Add whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on each slice enhances its sweetness and makes it look irresistible.
• Drizzle chocolate sauce: For those who love chocolate, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a rich contrast to the citrusy flavor.

How to Perfect Orange Creamsicle Cake

Making the perfect Orange Creamsicle Cake involves a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality orange juice improve the overall flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing the cake to cool fully prevents the frosting from melting and ensures an even spread.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Creamsicle Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Creamsicle Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add savory notes that balance out the dessert’s sweetness.
3. Caprese Salad: The fresh basil and mozzarella create a nice herbal note that pairs well with orange flavors.
4. Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet dish complements the tropical vibe of the cake.
5. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette dressing offers a crisp, refreshing side that’s perfect for summer meals.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with veggies can be filling and serves as a great accompaniment without overwhelming your palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making an Orange Creamsicle Cake, it’s easy to make a few errors. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the zest: Not adding orange zest can dull the flavor of your cake. Always include fresh zest for that vibrant citrus taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Not letting it cool: Pouring the frosting on a warm cake can cause it to melt away. Ensure your cake is completely cool before frosting.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or milk can affect how well they incorporate into the batter. Bring these ingredients to room temperature for better results.
• Using stale ingredients: Check the expiration dates on your baking supplies. Fresh ingredients are key to achieving that delicious orange flavor in your creamsicle cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Creamsicle Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Orange Creamsicle Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake so special?

This Orange Creamsicle Cake features bright orange flavors combined with a creamy vanilla frosting, making it perfect for summer gatherings.

Can I use another type of cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like lemon or vanilla if you want to customize your cakes further.

How do I make this Orange Creamsicle Cake gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the vanilla cake mix with a gluten-free version and follow all other instructions as written.

Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely! Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or additional whipped cream can elevate this Orange Creamsicle Cake even more.

How should I adjust the recipe for higher altitude?

If you’re baking at high altitude, consider reducing the sugar slightly and adding more liquid. It’s important to monitor baking time as well.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its bright flavors and creamy texture. It’s versatile enough for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a barbecue or celebrating a birthday. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or even try different flavors of JELLO! Enjoy making this delicious treat!

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Orange Creamsicle Cake

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 24 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing delight of Orange Creamsicle Cake, a perfect dessert to celebrate summer! This easy-to-make cake combines vibrant orange flavors with a fluffy vanilla frosting, creating a nostalgic treat reminiscent of childhood popsicles. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, and birthday parties, this crowd-pleaser serves 24 and is sure to impress guests of all ages. The light, moist texture and creamy topping make it a delightful addition to any gathering or simply as a sweet treat at home. Plus, with minimal tools required and straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy baking this scrumptious cake as much as you will savoring it.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (or vanilla almond milk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 3.4 ounces orange JELLO
• 1¼ cups boiling water
• ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 15 ounces mandarin oranges (canned)
• 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until blended.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Dissolve the orange JELLO in boiling water; stir in fresh orange juice.
5. Poke holes in the cooled cake with a fork and pour the JELLO mixture over it.
6. Mix vanilla pudding and Cool Whip together, then spread over the cake and top with mandarin oranges.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg