This Orange Creamsicle Cake is like a sweet hug in dessert form! It’s fluffy and moist with a zesty orange flavor that reminds you of summer days.
Who doesn’t love a cake that brings back childhood memories? I enjoy serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side—deliciously dreamy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vanilla Cake Mix: This saves time but feel free to make a homemade vanilla cake if you prefer from scratch. A white cake recipe can work well too!
Orange Soda: It gives the cake a lovely orange flavor. If you want a less sweet option, use club soda with added orange juice instead. They say the flavor is just as fun!
Vegetable Oil: This keeps the cake moist. You can swap it for melted coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier twist.
Orange Gelatin: This is key for that creamsicle flavor. If you prefer a natural approach, consider using real orange juice and a bit of agar-agar as a gelatin substitute.
Heavy Whipping Cream: It’s essential for the filling and frosting. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream that holds its shape well.
How Do I Get the Perfect Orange Cream Filling?
Making the orange cream filling might seem tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward. Just remember to follow these steps carefully:
- Dissolve the gelatin in boiling water completely before adding the cold water—this helps it set nicely.
- Let it cool slightly and thicken before mixing in the whipped cream. This way, the cream keeps its light and fluffy texture.
- Fold the whipped cream gently into the gelatin. No stirring aggressively! This helps maintain the airy aspect.
- Chill the filling before spreading it over the cake; this will help it set properly.
Trust me, this filling is worth the extra attention. It gives your cake that delightful creamsicle taste that’s so refreshing!
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cake:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup orange soda
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 orange
For The Orange Cream Filling:
- 1 cup orange-flavored gelatin (like Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For The Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Orange sprinkles or candy garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Orange Creamsicle Cake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, plus an additional hour to chill. In total, you’ll be looking at around 1 hour and 45 minutes before this sweet treat is ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Cake:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so the cake doesn’t stick. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cake mix, orange soda, vegetable oil, eggs, and the zest of 1 orange. Stir until everything is combined and smooth. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if it’s ready, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. When done, let the cake cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare the Orange Cream Filling:
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to make the delicious orange cream filling! In a bowl, dissolve the orange-flavored gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Once dissolved, add 1 cup of cold water and set it aside to thicken a bit. In another bowl, whip together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the slightly thickened gelatin mixture until well combined. Set aside in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
3. Assemble and Frost the Cake:
Once the cake is completely cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Pour the orange cream filling evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into those holes. Spread it out evenly, then pop the cake in the refrigerator for about 1 hour so it can set nicely. While it’s chilling, prepare the frosting: whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. When the cake is ready, spread the whipped frosting over the top. If you like, sprinkle it with orange sprinkles or add some candy for an extra fun touch!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake and serve it cold. Enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors that remind you of a classic Orange Creamsicle ice cream treat. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion!
Can I Use a Different Kind of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While vanilla cake mix is perfect for this recipe, you can also use a lemon or orange cake mix for a more citrusy flavor. Just keep in mind that some flavored mixes may alter the final taste slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container!
Can I Make This Cake Without Gelatin?
If you prefer not to use gelatin, you can substitute it with instant pudding mix. Simply mix the pudding with cold milk and follow the same steps for folding in the whipped cream. It will give a creamy texture but with a different taste.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Cake?
This cake is best served cold! For a fun twist, try adding some fresh fruit on top, like orange slices or berries, for added flavor and presentation. It’s perfect for summer gatherings and will make a refreshing dessert!
