This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a bright and fun dessert that brings back sweet memories. With a fluffy cake and creamy orange frosting, it’s like a summer treat on a plate!
I love how easy this cake is to whip up! Just mix, bake, and frost—so simple. Plus, who can resist that sweet orange flavor? It always makes me smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orange Cake Mix: This is the base of the cake. If you want to make it from scratch, you can mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and orange zest instead. A lemon cake mix also works well for a twist.
Vegetable Oil: This keeps the cake moist. You can substitute it with melted coconut oil or applesauce if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness and flavor. If you don’t have it, bottled juice works fine, but try to pick one without added sugars.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is the classic choice here. For a healthier alternative, you can make your own whipped cream using heavy cream and sugar or use whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Make a Cake That Stays Moist?
Keeping a cake moist hinges on proper mixing and handling. Here’s how to ensure your Orange Creamsicle Cake turns out perfect:
- Don’t overmix the batter—mix just until combined to help keep it light and airy.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding toppings, as this prevents excess moisture from seeping away.
- Poking holes in the cake allows the pudding mixture to soak in, which adds flavor and moisture throughout.
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) orange cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup orange juice
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup crushed orange-flavored candies
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and bake, plus another 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. It’s easy and a fantastic treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. This step is super important, so don’t skip it!
2. Mix the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and orange juice. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. You’ll want this batter to be nice and creamy!
3. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready! Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan.
4. Poke Holes in the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, grab a skewer or a fork and poke holes all over the top of the cake. This will help the pudding mixture soak in and add extra flavor!
5. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk until it thickens up. Then, gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is nice and smooth. It should look creamy and inviting!
6. Spread the Pudding Mix:
Now it’s time to spread the pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cooled cake. Make sure to fill in those holes you poked earlier so the cake gets all that delicious flavor.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the crushed orange-flavored candies on top of the pudding layer for a little crunch and sweetness. They will look beautiful and taste even better!
8. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the cake and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let all those wonderful flavors meld together. This step makes the cake even more refreshing!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add some fresh mint leaves on top for a lovely pop of color. If you like, sprinkle a bit more orange candy on top for added sweetness. Slice, serve, and enjoy your refreshing Orange Creamsicle Cake!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! If you want to change things up, you can use a lemon or vanilla cake mix instead. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor will shift, so adjust the toppings accordingly to complement the new base flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Whipped Topping?
If you’re looking for a substitute for whipped topping like Cool Whip, you can use homemade whipped cream. Simply whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This will give you a similar creamy texture with a fresher taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh and avoid it absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge!
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just prepare the pudding mixture and add it the day you plan to serve for optimal freshness and flavor!
