Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. This cake is not only visually appealing but also combines the rich taste of cream cheese frosting with the zesty notes of orange. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest creates a refreshing taste that elevates the traditional velvet cake.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits perfectly in any setting.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve great results without hassle.
• Creamy Frosting: The orange cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy layer that balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
• Impressive Presentation: Its vibrant color and elegant layers make it a show-stopper on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 3 (8-inch) round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Wire rack for cooling

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures smooth blending of ingredients, achieving fluffy batter for the best texture.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes allow for efficient preparation of dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Wire rack: Provides proper cooling for cakes, preventing sogginess while allowing even air circulation.

Ingredients

Orange Velvet Cake is a soft, citrusy dessert with zesty flavor and smooth orange cream cheese frosting. A bright and crowd-pleasing cake—try it today!

For the Cake

• 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1½ sticks (168g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 cups (342g) cake flour
• 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
• ½ teaspoon (3g) baking soda
• ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
• ½ cup (120ml) milk
• ½ cup (120ml) concentrated orange juice, thawed (do not add water)
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
• Zest from one orange (optional)
• 1 tablespoon orange extract
• Orange coloring gel (optional, for desired shade)

For the Frosting

• 3 sticks (339g) unsalted butter, softened
• 16 oz (452g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 7 cups (805g) powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• Orange coloring gel (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional orange zest until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
2. Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs One at a Time

Incorporate the eggs:
1. Add each egg one at a time into the creamed mixture.
2. Ensure each is fully mixed in before adding the next.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding:
1. The dry mixture from Step 2 with the wet mixture from Step 3 to the creamed base.
2. Start and end with the dry ingredients; mix just until everything is incorporated.

Step 7: Add Coloring Gel if Desired

If using orange coloring gel:
1. Add it now to achieve your desired shade in the batter.

Step 8: Bake Cakes

Divide your batter evenly:
1. Pour into prepared pans.
2. Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in pans:
1. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Now you have all you need to create an irresistible Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy this delightful treat at your next gathering or celebration!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. This vibrant dessert pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments and garnishes, making it a delightful centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve slices of cake with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.
• Citrus Slices: Garnish with thin orange or lemon slices to enhance the citrus notes present in the cake.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the zesty flavors of the orange cake perfectly.
• Orange Sherbet: For an extra citrus kick, serve with orange sherbet to match the cake’s flavor profile.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle can create a delicious contrast to the orange flavors.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for added sweetness and texture.

How to Perfect Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Orange Velvet Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Bold Flavor: Use fresh orange juice and zest for a more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought options.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm accuracy; baking at the correct temperature is crucial for even cooking.
• Cool Completely: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding of the icing.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your frosting before serving; adjust powdered sugar based on your sweetness preference.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

When it comes to side dishes that complement Orange Velvet Cake, choosing light and refreshing options can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great choices:

1. Citrus Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits dressed in honey-lime vinaigrette adds brightness that pairs well with the cake.
2. Minted Peas: Lightly seasoned peas tossed with fresh mint provide a pop of color and freshness alongside the dessert.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon brings an elegant touch that balances sweetness.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and vegetables can serve as a nutritious side that won’t overpower the cake.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can offer creamy contrasts that enhance flavors.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy breadsticks provide texture; opt for herb-infused versions for added complexity.
7. Vegetable Crudités: Colorful veggies served with dip make for a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can create a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pans can result in stuck cakes. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can ruin your cake’s texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different. Start checking your cakes a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding extra orange zest or using fresh orange juice instead of concentrated juice.

Can I use different types of frosting?

Absolutely! While the orange cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly, you can experiment with vanilla or chocolate frostings as well.

How should I store leftover Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store your leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze individual slices for longer preservation.

What if my cake is too dry?

If your cake turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking. Always check your cakes a few minutes early and ensure you’re measuring ingredients accurately.

Final Thoughts

Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is not only vibrant but also versatile. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from celebrations to casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or other flavors like lemon or lime zest. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy its zesty charm!

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Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that bursts with citrus flavor, making it an ideal centerpiece for any celebration. This soft, moist cake combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese frosting with the bright zest of orange, creating a harmonious balance that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this cake adds a touch of elegance and flavor to your table. With its vibrant color and easy preparation, even novice bakers can create this show-stopping treat with confidence.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1½ sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup concentrated orange juice, thawed
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• Zest from one orange (optional)
• Orange extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk milk, orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional zest.
4. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar until fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture.
6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and wet mixture to the creamed base until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 28-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool cakes in pans for 5–10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, use fresh orange juice instead of concentrated juice. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing results. Adjust sweetness in frosting by adding powdered sugar according to taste.