Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the orange cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of orange soda or juice. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth.
- Evenly divide the batter between your cake pans and pop them into the oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick — it should come out clean from the center.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and orange extract until it thickens.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until your frosting is smooth and dreamily creamy.
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate and slather on a layer of frosting before adding the second layer.
- Cover the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- Finish it off with a sprinkle of orange zest, slices, or white chocolate shavings for that extra flair.
- Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving this delightful cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside a glass of sparkling water or sweet tea to enhance that summer feel. If you’re feeling creative, adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also bring a new dimension to each slice.
How to store & freeze
To keep your Orange Creamsicle Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, it can be frozen. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, ensuring no air is getting in to avoid freezer burn. This way, you can enjoy a taste of summer any time of year.
Helpful cooking tips
For a truly special treat, try using a high-quality orange extract—it can elevate the flavor significantly. If you want to make your cake a bit more decadent, consider adding a layer of orange marmalade between the cake layers before frosting. Also, ensure your ingredients (especially the eggs and milk) are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to experiment! You can switch up flavors by using lemon cake mix for a tart twist, or even add a little coconut extract to the frosting for a tropical flair. Adding colorful sprinkles can also make this cake a festive option for holidays or birthday parties. Vegan and gluten-free friends? Substitute with appropriate mixes and ingredients to cater to everyone’s palate.
FAQs
How long does the cake take to prepare?
From start to finish, this Orange Creamsicle Cake will take about 1.5 hours, including baking and cooling time.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just wait to frost it until the day of serving to keep it fresh.
Can I substitute the whipped topping?
Yes, if you prefer a homemade frosting, a whipped cream made from heavy cream and sugar can be used instead. Just whip until stiff peaks form and fold in your pudding mixture.
Baking this Orange Creamsicle Cake is not just about making dessert; it’s about creating memories filled with delicious flavor and joy. Enjoy every slice!
