Orange Creamsicle Cake

This easy Orange Creamsicle Cake is the perfect treat for any summer gathering! Its delightful combination of orange flavor and creamy frosting makes it a standout dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a picnic, or just enjoying a sunny day at home, this cake adds a refreshing sweetness to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe only requires simple ingredients and can be whipped up in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of orange and vanilla flavors creates a delightful taste reminiscent of your favorite creamsicle treats.
• Perfect for Summer: Ideal for warm weather gatherings, this cake is light, refreshing, and absolutely delicious.
• Feed a Crowd: With 24 generous servings, it’s perfect for parties or family gatherings.
• Versatile Dessert: You can customize it with different toppings or add-ins to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start crafting your Orange Creamsicle Cake, gather all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for making poke cakes as it allows for ample space to soak in all that delicious flavor.
• Electric mixer: It helps achieve a smooth batter and fluffy frosting effortlessly, saving you time and energy.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes ensures you can efficiently combine ingredients without any mess.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup milk (or vanilla almondmilk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Poke Mixture

• 3.4 ounces orange JELLO
• 1 ¼ cup boiling water
• ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice

For Topping

• 15 ounces can of mandarin oranges (do not drain)
• 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray for easy removal of the cake later.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Prepare Poke Mixture

While the cake is baking, dissolve the orange JELLO in boiling water in another bowl. Stir until fully dissolved. Add fresh squeezed orange juice to the mixture.

Step 5: Poke Holes in Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the top of the warm cake.

Step 6: Soak with JELLO Mixture

Pour the prepared JELLO mixture evenly over the top of the warm cake. Make sure it seeps into all those holes!

Step 7: Chill

Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least an hour.

Step 8: Prepare Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine vanilla pudding mix and Cool Whip until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over cooled cake once set.

Step 9: Add Mandarin Oranges

Top your frosted cake with mandarin oranges straight from the can (do not drain).

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your refreshing Orange Creamsicle Cake!

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake

Serving Orange Creamsicle Cake can elevate any gathering. This delightful dessert pairs well with various accompaniments to enhance its refreshing orange flavor.

With Fresh Berries

• Raspberries – Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet cake.
• Strawberries – Sliced strawberries add a classic touch and extra sweetness.
• Blueberries – These little bursts of flavor complement the orange zest perfectly.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop adds creaminess that balances the cake’s texture.
• Orange Sorbet – For an extra citrusy punch, serve with a refreshing orange sorbet.
• Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream enhances the lightness of the cake.

On a Dessert Platter

• Mini Pastries – Include other small desserts like eclairs or fruit tarts for variety.
• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These offer a sweet contrast to the citrus flavors.

How to Perfect Orange Creamsicle Cake

For a flawless Orange Creamsicle Cake, consider these helpful tips. Perfecting this dessert ensures it will be a hit at any event.

• Bold Baking Temperature – Always preheat your oven properly to ensure even baking.
• Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh orange juice and zests for the best flavor.
• Bold Let it Cool Completely – Allow the cake to cool completely before adding frosting for better consistency.
• Bold Even Layering of Frosting – Spread frosting evenly for a beautiful presentation and balanced taste.
• Bold Refrigerate Before Serving – Chilling the cake helps flavors meld and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Creamsicle Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Creamsicle Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that work well together.

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing bite alongside the cake.
2. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – The caramelized pineapple adds a lovely sweetness that complements orange flavors.
3. Lemon Bars – Tart lemon bars bring a zingy contrast that brightens your dessert table.
4. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecakes can balance out the citrus with their creamy texture.
5. Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats pair well, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
6. Chocolate Mousse – Rich chocolate mousse offers decadence that contrasts nicely with light orange notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can affect the cake’s texture and rise.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to avoid inconsistencies in the cake.
• Skipping the orange zest: The orange zest is essential for that burst of flavor. Don’t skip it; it enhances the creamsicle taste significantly.
• Overbaking the cake: Keep a close eye on your cake while baking. Overbaking will lead to a dry texture instead of the moist, fluffy cake you desire.
• Neglecting to poke holes carefully: When preparing a poke cake, be gentle with your poking. Large holes can lead to excessive filling leaking out, ruining the presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Orange Creamsicle Cake

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Orange Creamsicle Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it can change the texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Orange Creamsicle Cake.

Can I use another type of cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla cake mix with lemon or orange-flavored mixes for a different twist on your Orange Creamsicle Cake.

How do I make this cake ahead of time?

You can prepare this Orange Creamsicle Cake up to one day ahead. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until serving.

What other toppings can I use on my creamsicle cake?

Consider adding fresh fruit like berries or additional whipped cream as toppings. This adds freshness and visual appeal to your Orange Creamsicle Cake.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for an enjoyable treat.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a perfect dessert for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress guests. Its vibrant flavors combine beautifully, making it adaptable with various toppings or mix-ins. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your preferences! Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat!

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Orange Creamsicle Cake

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 24 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing delight of Orange Creamsicle Cake, a perfect summer dessert that brings together the vibrant flavors of orange and creamy vanilla. This easy-to-make cake is an ideal treat for any warm-weather gathering, whether it’s a picnic, birthday party, or a simple day spent enjoying the sunshine. With its moist texture and luscious topping of mandarin oranges and whipped cream, each bite is reminiscent of your favorite childhood creamsicle treat. Plus, this cake is perfect for feeding a crowd, making it a standout choice for your next celebration.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup milk (or vanilla almond milk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 3.4 ounces orange JELLO
• 1 ¼ cup boiling water
• ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 15 ounces can of mandarin oranges (do not drain)
• 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine vanilla cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Beat until well mixed.
3. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. While baking, dissolve the orange JELLO in boiling water; add fresh orange juice once dissolved.
5. After cooling the cake for 10 minutes post-baking, poke holes all over the top with a fork.
6. Pour the JELLO mixture over the warm cake to soak in.
7. Chill the cake for at least an hour before frosting with a blend of vanilla pudding mix and Cool Whip.
8. Top with mandarin oranges and serve chilled.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 85g)
• Calories: 215
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: <0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: For added flavor, use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought. Customize toppings with fresh berries or additional whipped cream for extra freshness.