Orange Creamsicle Cake

Published: July 19, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of orange and cream creates a deliciously unique taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up this cake with ease.
Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, picnic, or family gathering, this cake is the perfect sweet addition to any event.
Moist and Creamy Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and pudding mix, each slice of this Orange Creamsicle Cake is incredibly moist and flavorful.
Stunning Presentation: The vibrant orange color paired with creamy frosting makes this cake visually appealing and a great centerpiece.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer or electric mixer
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Rubber spatula
2 (9×2 inch) cake pans
Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer or electric mixer: These tools help achieve a smooth batter effortlessly by thoroughly mixing all ingredients.
Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredients are left behind.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box orange cake mix (I used Duncan Hines Orange Supreme Cake Mix)
1 box 3.4oz Vanilla INSTANT pudding mix, dry
1 cup vegetable oil
½ cup milk
1 cup sour cream
3 large eggs

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream or milk

For Garnish

3 Tablespoons sweet orange marmalade

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F degrees. Spray two 9×2 inch cake pans with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a stand mixer or using an electric mixer:
1. Combine the orange cake mix, vanilla instant pudding mix, vegetable oil, milk, sour cream, and eggs.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Pour the cake batter evenly into both prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
Allow cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake

Serving your Orange Creamsicle Cake can elevate any occasion, be it a birthday party or a casual family gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance the experience.

Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and texture.

Pair with Fresh Berries

Serve alongside strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to introduce a fresh burst of flavor and color to your plate.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla or orange sherbet ice cream complements the cake’s flavor and provides a cool contrast.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

A light drizzle of chocolate sauce can add an indulgent touch, balancing the citrus notes beautifully.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing taste that pairs well with the orange cream flavor.

Create a Layered Dessert

Crumble pieces of the cake into a parfait glass, layering them with pudding and fruit for an exciting dessert presentation.

How to Perfect Orange Creamsicle Cake

Perfecting your Orange Creamsicle Cake is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature. This helps in creating a smooth batter that traps air better for fluffiness.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cake. Overmixing can lead to dense results instead of light and airy layers.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as inaccuracies can affect baking time and cake texture.
Cool Cakes Completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing them. This prevents breakage and makes frosting easier.
Experiment with Flavor Add-ins: Consider adding zest from an orange or lemon for an extra burst of citrus flavor in both the cake and frosting.
Frost When Cold: If possible, refrigerate your cakes before frosting. Cold cakes hold the frosting better and prevent sliding during serving.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Creamsicle Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Creamsicle Cake can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors well.

Citrus Salad
A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, oranges, and a light vinaigrette can enhance the citrus theme.
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Marinated chicken skewers offer savory flavors that balance out the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Creamy Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it an excellent counterpoint to the rich cake.
Fruit Platter
An assortment of seasonal fruits not only looks appealing but also provides refreshing bites between slices of cake.
Cheese Board
A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese paired with crackers provides a savory element that complements dessert nicely.
Vegetable Crudité
Fresh vegetables served with dip create a healthy option that contrasts well with the sweetness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Orange Creamsicle Cake can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold eggs and sour cream can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature for better results.
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing for too long can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
Not Greasing the Pans: Failing to spray your cake pans properly can result in sticking. Always use nonstick spray or parchment paper for easy removal.
Ignoring Bake Times: Every oven is different, so relying solely on time can be risky. Check your cake a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. Always let the cake cool completely before applying frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
For best quality, chill before covering to avoid condensation.

Freezing Orange Creamsicle Cake

Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Orange Creamsicle Cake

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake so special?

This Orange Creamsicle Cake stands out due to its rich orange flavor paired with creamy vanilla notes, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Can I make this Orange Creamsicle Cake from scratch?

Absolutely! You can use fresh orange juice and zest instead of cake mix if you prefer homemade ingredients.

How do I customize my Orange Creamsicle Cake?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even use different flavors of pudding mix for unique twists.

How long will the Orange Creamsicle Cake last?

When stored properly, this delicious cake will last about five days in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Creamsicle Cake is not only moist and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to experiment with flavors or add toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit!

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