Orange Creamsicle Cake: 7 Steps to a Delightful Treat

Name: Orange Creamsicle Cake: 7 Steps to a Delightful Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the delightful orange creamsicle cake! This cake is like a burst of sunshine on your plate, combining the sweet, tangy flavor of fresh oranges with a creamy, dreamy frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion—birthdays, summer picnics, or just as a treat to brighten up your day. The moment you take a bite, you’ll be transported back to those hot summer days enjoying a classic creamsicle, but in cake form! Seriously, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone raving. Trust me, once you try it, this orange creamsicle cake will become a staple in your dessert repertoire!

orange creamsicle cake - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this vibrant and refreshing orange creamsicle cake. I promise, it’s super straightforward, and you probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already!

2 cups all-purpose flour: This is your base, giving the cake structure.
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: For that perfect sweetness that balances the tang of the oranges.
1 tablespoon baking powder: This is what makes your cake rise—don’t skip it!
1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing—trust me, it makes a difference!
4 large eggs: These add richness and help bind everything together.
1 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that vibrant flavor!
1 tablespoon orange zest: This adds an extra punch of orange goodness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash to round out the flavors.
1 cup heavy cream: This is for the frosting—rich and luscious!
1/2 cup powdered sugar: To sweeten the whipped cream without grittiness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream): A little extra flavor in the frosting makes a big difference!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create something magical! Just a little prep, and you’re on your way to a delicious dessert that will impress everyone.

How to Prepare the Orange Creamsicle Cake

Preheat and Prepare

Alright, let’s get started! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important, so don’t skip it! While that’s heating up, grab your favorite cake pan—9×13 inches works beautifully—and grease it with a bit of butter or non-stick spray. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for an easy release. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when it comes time to remove the cake!

Mix the Batter

Now, it’s time to mix things up! In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a quick stir to blend everything together. Next, add in the softened butter, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, mix on medium speed until everything is smooth and well combined. But here’s a little tip: don’t overmix! You want to keep that fluffy texture, so just mix until the batter is combined and looks deliciously creamy.

Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, you’re golden! Once it’s baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Cooling is crucial here; if you frost it too soon, the cream will melt into a puddle. We don’t want that!

Make the Whipped Cream

While the cake is cooling, let’s whip up that dreamy frosting! In a clean mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and that extra teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. It should be thick and hold its shape beautifully! Just keep an eye on it—you don’t want to over-whip and turn it into butter. That’d be a bummer!

Frost and Serve

Once your cake is completely cool, it’s time for the fun part—frosting! Take that fluffy whipped cream and spread it generously over the top of your cake, smoothing it out with a spatula. For a little extra flair, you can garnish with some orange zest or even a few fresh orange slices. Now, slice up that gorgeous cake, serve it on a pretty plate, and get ready for the compliments to roll in. Enjoy every bite of your orange creamsicle cake—it’s a delightful treat that’s sure to brighten anyone’s day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This orange creamsicle cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a delightful experience! Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making (and devouring) this cake:

Refreshing Flavor: The combination of zesty orange and creamy frosting gives you that nostalgic flavors of summer in every bite.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy here—just everyday ingredients that you probably already have at home.
Easy to Make: Perfect for beginners! The straightforward steps make it a breeze to whip up, even if you’re new to baking.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, picnic, or just a sweet craving, this cake fits right in, bringing joy to any gathering.
Customizable: Feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate chips, swap in different citrus juices, or even top it with fresh fruit.
Stunning Presentation: With its bright orange hue and fluffy whipped cream, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious—definitely a showstopper!

Trust me, once you try this orange creamsicle cake, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!). It’s a delightful dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Tips for Success

To make sure your orange creamsicle cake comes out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I swear by! Follow these and you’ll be on your way to dessert glory:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend together more smoothly, giving your cake that lovely light texture.
Don’t Overmix: When mixing your batter, remember to stop as soon as everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want that fluffy goodness!
Use Fresh Orange Juice: For the best flavor, always opt for freshly squeezed orange juice. It really makes a difference in the cake’s taste and aroma.
Let It Cool Completely: Be patient and allow the cake to cool fully before frosting. If it’s warm, the whipped cream will melt and slide right off. Nobody wants a puddle of cream on their plate!
Chill Your Mixing Bowl: If you want to make sure your whipped cream turns out perfectly, try chilling your mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge for a bit. Cold tools help the cream whip up faster and better!
Garnish with Flair: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! A sprinkle of orange zest or some thin orange slices not only adds flavor but makes your cake look even more inviting.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well-equipped to make a stunning orange creamsicle cake that impresses everyone. Happy baking!

Variations of Orange Creamsicle Cake

If you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, there are so many fun ways to put your own twist on this orange creamsicle cake! Here are some creative variations that will keep things exciting and delicious:

Lemon Creamsicle Cake: Swap out the orange juice and zest for freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. This will give you a bright, tangy flavor that’s just as refreshing!
Chocolate Chip Orange Cake: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful contrast. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the citrusy orange, creating a decadent treat.
Grapefruit Twist: Try using grapefruit juice and zest instead of orange for a more sophisticated, slightly tart flavor. It’s a unique take that’s sure to impress!
Coconut Orange Cake: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical vibe. You can even top the whipped cream with toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.
Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes: Transform this cake into cupcakes! Just pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for about 20 minutes. They’ll be perfect for parties or lunch boxes!
Orange Creamsicle Trifle: Layer pieces of the cake with whipped cream and fresh fruit in a trifle dish for a stunning dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

These variations will keep your orange creamsicle cake fun and versatile, perfect for any occasion or just to satisfy a different craving. Feel free to mix and match and find your favorite flavor combinations!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious orange creamsicle cake, and now you have some leftovers—lucky you! Here’s how to store it so you can enjoy it later without losing any of that freshness.

First, let the cake cool completely if you haven’t already done so. Once it’s cool, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to refrigerate it to keep it from getting too warm and soggy.

If you want to keep it longer, pop those slices in the fridge. Just make sure to cover the cake with plastic wrap or keep it in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months! Just slice it up, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can pull out a slice whenever that sweet craving hits!

Now, when it comes to reheating, if you’re enjoying a slice from the fridge, just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before digging in. If you prefer a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too warm!

If you’re reheating a frozen slice, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, or you can microwave it straight from the freezer for about 20-30 seconds. Just check to make sure it’s warmed through but not hot—nobody wants a molten orange puddle!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor that orange creamsicle cake just as much the next day as you did when it was fresh out of the oven. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this vibrant orange creamsicle cake! It’s always good to know what you’re indulging in, right? Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect per slice:

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 4g

Remember, it’s all about balance! Enjoying a slice of this delightful cake is a wonderful treat, and sharing it with friends and family makes it even better. So go ahead, savor every bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought orange juice for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh orange juice gives the best flavor, store-bought juice works just fine if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure it’s 100% orange juice for the best taste.

What if my cake sinks in the middle?
Oh no! A sunken cake can happen if it’s underbaked or if the batter was overmixed. Make sure to bake until a toothpick comes out clean, and mix just until combined to keep that fluffy texture.

How can I make this cake more orange-flavored?
If you want a stronger orange flavor, try adding a bit more orange zest or even a splash of orange extract. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start small and taste as you go!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature until you’re ready to frost it. This actually helps the flavors meld together beautifully!

Can I freeze the orange creamsicle cake?
Definitely! Once it’s fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.