Delightful Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe
Orange Dreamsicle Cake is a light, fluffy dessert that captures the nostalgic flavor of the classic orange creamsicle. With a moist orange cake base and a creamy, dreamy frosting, this cake is a perfect balance of citrusy sweetness and rich creaminess. It’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or whenever you want to indulge in a refreshing citrus dessert.
- Author: Mason Recipes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
- Prepare the Oven and Cake Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange zest (if using).
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest (if using), and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous amount of frosting on top of the first layer.
- Place the second layer of cake on top, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the cake immediately or refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow the frosting to set.
- This cake is perfect for any occasion and is especially refreshing during warm weather.
Notes
- For an extra burst of orange flavor, you can add more orange zest to both the cake batter and the frosting.
- You can also substitute the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix if needed.
- The frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before frosting the cake.
- For an added touch, garnish the cake with orange slices or candied orange peel.
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