If you have a soft spot for that nostalgic, citrusy, creamy delight reminiscent of a classic frozen treat, wait until you try this Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe. It’s a beautifully moist, tender cake bursting with fresh orange flavor, gently balanced by a luscious cream cheese frosting with just the right zing. This cake is like a warm, cozy hug of summer memories, perfect for celebrations or whenever you want to brighten your day with a slice of sunshine. Once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for all things sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the key to nailing the perfect texture, taste, and vibrant look of the Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the sweet and tangy orange zest to the creamy frosting that ties everything together.
- Orange cake mix (15.25 oz): The base of the cake, ensuring a bright orange flavor and tender crumb.
- Orange juice (1 cup): Adds natural citrus juice that enhances moisture and flavor.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake wonderfully moist without weighing it down.
- Large eggs (4): Provides structure and richness for the perfect rise and texture.
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon plus extra): Infuses intense citrus aroma and adds visual appeal.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz): Ensures a soft, velvety crumb with an extra touch of vanilla goodness.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a smooth and tangy frosting that perfectly complements the orange.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for an ideal spreadable consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
How to Make Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare your cake pans by greasing and flouring two 8-inch rounds or a single 9×13 pan. Combining the orange cake mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, zest, and instant pudding mix in a large bowl will create an irresistibly smooth, thick batter when beaten on medium speed for about two minutes. This batter is the heart and soul of your Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe, promising a bright, moist cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your pans, smoothing out the tops to ensure an even bake. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, leaving you with perfectly risen layers bursting with orange flavor. Let them cool for about ten minutes in the pans before carefully transferring to a wire rack to cool completely — cooling is crucial for creamy frosting that won’t melt away.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
While your cake cools, whip together the frosting that makes this Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe truly special. Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Adding powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest not only sweetens but also lends that signature tang and fresh citrus zing. Beat till the frosting is fluffy and spreadable, the perfect luscious crown for your cake.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread the frosting generously between layers and all around the cake. Garnish with additional orange zest for a pop of color and extra aroma. Placing the frosted cake in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing promotes cleaner cuts and lets all those citrusy flavors meld beautifully. Your Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhancing your cake’s presentation is a joy with simple garnishes like extra orange zest, thin orange slices, or even edible flowers for a touch of elegance. These add visual appeal and a boost of fresh citrus aroma every time you serve a slice, making your Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe not only delicious but stunning.
Side Dishes
Pairing this cake with light, complementary sides can elevate your dessert experience. Think fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to mirror that vanilla-orange harmony. Such sides enhance the creamy, tangy profile without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this cake doesn’t have to be limited to the classic layered slice. Try turning the batter into cupcakes for portion-friendly treats or assemble a trifle by layering crumbled cake, frosting, and fresh fruit in a glass dish. The Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe is versatile and fun to reinvent for parties or cozy afternoons.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this luscious cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the frosting fresh and prevents the cake from drying out. It’s best eaten within 3 to 4 days for maximum flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, the Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to retain freshness and texture.
Reheating
Since this is a frosted cake, reheating isn’t generally recommended. However, if you prefer your cake slightly warmer, slice a piece and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, or briefly microwave a single slice for 10 to 15 seconds to gently warm the cake without melting the frosting.
FAQs
Can I use fresh oranges instead of orange juice from a carton?
Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice will brighten the citrus flavor and make your cake even more aromatic and fresh. Just be sure to measure one cup to keep the liquid ratio balanced.
Is it necessary to use instant vanilla pudding mix in this recipe?
The pudding mix is a secret trick for making the cake ultra moist and tender. While you can omit it, the texture won’t be quite as rich or soft, so it’s highly recommended for the best results.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You could use a gluten-free orange cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture might vary a bit, but the vibrant orange flavor and creamy frosting will still shine through beautifully.
How long should I let the cake cool before frosting?
Cooling the cake completely is essential, usually about an hour at room temperature. If it’s still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off, losing that perfect creamy texture unique to this Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe.
Can I add orange extract to the frosting?
Yes! Adding about 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract to the frosting will intensify the citrus flavor and make your Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe even more vibrant and dreamy.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of the flavors we all love — bright oranges, creamy frosting, and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It’s an absolute joy to bake and share with friends or family, perfect for any occasion that calls for a tasty burst of sunshine. Give it a whirl, and I promise this cake will become a treasured favorite in your kitchen, bringing smiles with every bite.
Print
Orange Dreamsicle Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Dreamsicle Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the nostalgic flavors of an orange creamsicle. Moist and vibrant with fresh orange juice and zest, this cake is layered and frosted with a creamy, citrus-infused cream cheese frosting, making it an ideal treat for summer gatherings or any occasion craving a refreshing, sweet citrus touch.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box orange cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
Frosting
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or alternatively use one 9×13-inch pan to simplify serving.
- Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange cake mix, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and instant vanilla pudding mix. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and thick.
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting: While the cakes cool, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easy to spread.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cake layers are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake. Garnish with extra orange zest if desired.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the frosted cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Chilling helps achieve clean slices and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract to the frosting.
- This cake can also be baked in a 9×13-inch pan for easier serving and presentation.
- Make sure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use fresh orange zest and juice for the best flavor impact.
