This Orange Creamsicle Cake brings back beloved childhood flavors in a sophisticated dessert. You’ll love this easy-to-make cake, perfect for any occasion, and it’s a fantastic addition to your collection of cake recipes with cream cheese.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- All-purpose flour: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend if preferred.
- Granulated sugar: Use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
- Fresh orange zest & juice: Bottled orange juice works in a pinch, but fresh provides the best flavor.
- Cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese yields the richest frosting, but a reduced-fat version can be used.
- Heavy cream: Half-and-half or evaporated milk can substitute for a slightly less rich frosting.
- Vanilla extract: Almond extract can offer a different flavor profile.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- ½ teaspoon orange extract
For the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Tools needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, electric mixer, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, ensuring the bottom and sides are well coated. This step prevents your delicious cake from sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth cake batter.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the milk, eggs, orange zest, and orange extract, mixing until just combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed with an electric mixer until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
5. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
6. Make the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt until the frosting is light and fluffy.
7. Frost and Serve
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can garnish with extra orange zest if you like. Slice and enjoy your delightful Orange Creamsicle Cake!
Variation Ideas
- Add a layer of mandarin orange segments on top of the frosting.
- Incorporate a few drops of orange food coloring into the frosting for a vibrant look.
- Bake as cupcakes for individual servings; adjust baking time accordingly.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and prevents the cake from drying out. You can enjoy slices straight from the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought orange juice?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought orange juice, but fresh orange juice and zest will give you the best, brightest flavor for this cake.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it unfrosted at room temperature. Frost it just before serving.
Q: My cream cheese frosting is too thin. What should I do?
A: Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Ensure your butter and cream cheese were softened but not melted.
Q: Can I freeze Orange Creamsicle Cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cake (unfrosted is best) tightly wrapped for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving or frosting.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for anyone new to cake recipes with cream cheese.