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Delightful Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe

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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

  • 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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