Orange Vanilla Creamsicle Cake

Name: Orange Vanilla Creamsicle Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

I’m thrilled to share my Orange Vanilla Creamsicle Cake recipe with you! The delightful combination of fresh orange juice and creamy vanilla flavor creates a nostalgic treat that reminds me of summer days. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. It’s moist, citrusy, and oh-so-delicious. I can't wait for you to experience the joy of baking this cake and savoring each bite. Let’s get started on this delightful journey together!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:54:28.966Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to encapsulate the vibrant flavors of a creamsicle in a cake form. The combination of oranges and vanilla creates a taste that is not only refreshing but also comforting. After several attempts, I found that using both the zest and juice of the oranges really amps up the citrus flavor, making each bite bursting with freshness.

Additionally, I discovered that letting the cake cool completely before frosting it helps the icing to set up perfectly. This way, you get a lovely layer of frosting that complements the cake without sliding off. I’m always excited to share this recipe, as it brings smiles and happy memories with every slice.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty orange flavor that brightens your day
Creamy vanilla frosting that pairs beautifully
Perfect for summertime gatherings and celebrations

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

To achieve the vibrant flavor profile of the Orange Vanilla Creamsicle Cake, using fresh orange juice and zest is non-negotiable. Bottled orange juice lacks the brightness and acidity that fresh oranges provide. When zesting, make sure to only use the outer peel of the orange, avoiding the bitter white pith. This small detail enhances the cake's flavor by infusing it with a lively citrus aroma that draws you in.

Additionally, opting for high-quality vanilla extract will create a deeper and more authentic flavor compared to imitation vanilla. The interplay between the fruity notes of orange and the warm undertones of vanilla is crucial for crafting a balanced cake that feels indulgent without being overly sweet.

Frosting Tips for Success

The frosting is what truly elevates this cake, and getting the right consistency is key. When beating the softened butter, you want it to become light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Gradually adding the powdered sugar helps avoid a mess and ensures a smooth texture. If the frosting seems too thick, a tablespoon of heavy cream can easily make it more spreadable.

For a beautiful finish, consider using an offset spatula for frosting the sides of the cake. Start by applying a thin layer (a crumb coat) to seal in the crumbs, then refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before applying the final layer of frosting. This technique yields a smooth and elegant look, perfect for impressing guests at gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, and mix until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing until fully combined.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with extra orange zest if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the frosting. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar in the frosting to your taste.

Storing and Serving

This cake stores beautifully. After frosting, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. You can keep the cake at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, as this enhances the flavor and texture.

If you want to prepare the cake ahead of time, you can bake the layers a day in advance. Once completely cooled, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just a quick whip-up of the frosting before serving is all you need for a fresh and delightful treat!

Making It Your Own

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding additional layers of flavor. A hint of almond extract could complement the vanilla, creating a more complex taste profile. For a fun twist, consider folding in chocolate chips or shredded coconut into the batter for texture; both will pair wonderfully with the orange and vanilla essence.

You can also substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor and a slightly denser cake. Just keep in mind that it may affect the rise; thus, adjusting the baking powder by ¼ teaspoon might be necessary to retain the cake's height and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought frosting for this cake?

Yes, store-bought frosting can be a great time saver if you're short on time.

→ How should I store the cake?

Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them on the day you plan to serve.

→ Is it possible to freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.