Looking for a vibrant dessert that’s as refreshing as it is delicious? Say hello to this Orange Creamsicle Cake! With its moist texture and citrusy flavor, it’s the perfect treat to brighten up any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want something special for a weeknight dinner, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make—no fancy techniques or ingredients required. So, let’s dive in and see how to bring this sunshine-inspired dessert to life!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for spring or summer gatherings
- A creamy, tangy frosting that complements the orange zest beautifully
- An easy-to-follow recipe that’s great for both beginners and experienced bakers
- A vibrant and eye-catching dessert that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser
- Can be made ahead of time for convenience
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Orange Creamsicle Cake. Don’t worry if you don’t have buttermilk on hand—there’s an easy substitute you can make at home. The full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake. It’s a straightforward process that yields impressive results!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start baking, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This includes all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, softened butter, granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Creamsicle Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Add the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Adjust the frosting consistency by adding more powdered sugar if needed.
Step 5: Assemble & Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. You can also decorate the top with additional orange zest if desired.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Slice the cake and serve. This Orange Creamsicle Cake is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something special. It’s also a great addition to your quick family dinners or easy pasta recipes night. For more dessert ideas, check out my Cookie Dough Cake and Chocolate Raspberry Cake recipes.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
- Don’t overmix the batter to ensure the cake stays tender.
- Adjust the amount of orange zest to your taste.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting for a clean finish.
How to Serve
This cake is versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy it as a dessert, a snack, or even as part of your 30-minute meals prep. It’s also a great choice for weeknight dinner ideas when you want something sweet but don’t have much time to prepare. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of fresh juice for a delightful treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
This cake can be baked and frosted a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
There you have it—your very own Orange Creamsicle Cake! It’s a light birthday cake idea that’s sure to be a hit. With its orange and cream cake flavor combination, it’s a refreshing twist on traditional desserts. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me in your baking adventures!
Orange Creamsicle Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Gather Your Ingredients
- Prepare the Cake Batter
- Bake the Cake
- Make the Creamsicle Frosting
- Assemble & Frost the Cake
- Serve & Enjoy!