Orange Creamsicle Cake

This easy Orange Creamsicle Cake is perfect for any summer gathering! It’s a delightful poke cake that combines the fresh, zesty flavor of oranges with a creamy vanilla base. Ideal for parties, picnics, or just a sunny day at home, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family with its vibrant taste and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The bright orange zest and fresh juice create a light and refreshing dessert, perfect for warm weather.
• Easy to Make: Using a cake mix simplifies the process, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With 24 servings, this cake is great for serving larger groups at any occasion.
• Versatile Topping: The fluffy Cool Whip topping pairs perfectly with the orange flavors, giving it an irresistible finish.
• Make Ahead Option: This cake can be prepared in advance, allowing you to save time on the day of your event.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Orange Creamsicle Cake, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining your ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures your batter is mixed thoroughly for a light cake texture.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success; using these tools guarantees the right balance of flavors.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup milk (or vanilla almondmilk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Poke Filling

• 3.4 ounces orange JELLO
• 1 ¼ cup boiling water
• ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 15 ounces can of mandarin oranges (do not drain)

For the Topping

• 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
2. 3 eggs (room temperature)
3. 1 cup milk (or vanilla almondmilk)
4. ½ cup vegetable oil
5. Add 1 tablespoon orange zest.
Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Prepare the Poke Filling

While the cake bakes:
1. In a separate bowl, dissolve 3.4 ounces orange JELLO in 1 ¼ cup boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
2. Add in ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice. Mix well.

Step 5: Poke Holes in Cake and Add Filling

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
2. Use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
3. Pour the JELLO mixture evenly over the warm cake so it seeps into holes.

Step 6: Chill and Top with Cream

Allow your cake to cool completely in the refrigerator for at least two hours.
After chilling:
1. In another bowl, prepare your topping by mixing together:
– 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
– Fold in 8 ounces Cool Whip.
2. Spread this mixture over chilled cake before serving.

Your Orange Creamsicle Cake is now ready to delight your guests! Enjoy each slice of this vibrant treat!

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake

Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve this refreshing dessert that will impress your guests.

Individual Servings

• Use small dessert cups to serve individual portions of Orange Creamsicle Cake. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without needing plates.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair your cake with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or melon. The natural sweetness complements the orange flavors beautifully.

A La Mode

• Serve slices of Orange Creamsicle Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream contrasts perfectly with the cake’s fluffy texture.

Drizzled with Citrus Glaze

• Create a citrus glaze using powdered sugar and fresh orange juice. Drizzle it over the cake for an extra burst of flavor that enhances the dish.

Garnished with Whipped Topping

• Top each slice of cake with a dollop of whipped topping for added creaminess. You can also sprinkle some orange zest on top for decoration.

How to Perfect Orange Creamsicle Cake

To achieve the best results with your Orange Creamsicle Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and milk to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.

• Be precise with measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for the best texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for consistency.

• Incorporate zest evenly: When adding orange zest, mix it thoroughly into the batter to ensure every bite has that vibrant citrus flavor.

• Cool completely before frosting: Let the cake cool completely before applying frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

• Consider chilling before serving: Chilling the frosted cake in the fridge enhances its flavors and makes it even more refreshing when served cold.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Creamsicle Cake

Pairing your Orange Creamsicle Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options.

1. Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, grapefruit, and mandarin oranges dressed in a light citrus vinaigrette.

2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a savory contrast to the sweet cake.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a healthy side that balances out the sweetness of the cake.

4. Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse provides a decadent contrast that pairs surprisingly well with citrusy flavors.

5. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like goat cheese or brie alongside crackers and fruit preserves for a sophisticated touch.

6. Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet is not only refreshing but also complements the orange flavor in the cake beautifully.

7. Berry Compote: Serve a warm or chilled berry compote on the side, as it adds tartness that balances out sweetness from the cake.

8. Nutty Granola Bars: These provide texture and crunch, making them an enjoyable snack alongside your soft and fluffy cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Orange Creamsicle Cake, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final result.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or milk can lead to a dense cake. Always let your eggs and milk sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.

• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use dry measuring cups for solids and liquid measuring cups for liquids for best results.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Skipping the zest: Orange zest is vital for enhancing flavor. Don’t skip it; use fresh zest from an orange to give your cake that authentic creamsicle taste.

• Neglecting cooling time: Cutting into your cake too early can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before serving for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odor absorption.

Freezing Orange Creamsicle Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to eat.

Reheating Orange Creamsicle Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Orange Creamsicle Cake along with their answers.

What makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake so special?

This cake combines the refreshing flavors of orange and vanilla, reminiscent of a classic creamsicle treat, making it perfect for summer gatherings.

Can I use homemade frosting instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can make your own frosting using whipped cream and vanilla extract for added freshness and flavor if you prefer not to use Cool Whip.

How do I customize my Orange Creamsicle Cake?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for extra flavor. You could also incorporate nuts or coconut flakes into the batter.

Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?

Absolutely! This recipe serves 24 people, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings where you want everyone to enjoy a delicious dessert.

Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free vanilla cake mix if needed. Just ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Creamsicle Cake is not only vibrant and delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or celebrating a special occasion, this cake will impress your guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Orange Creamsicle Cake

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 24 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the refreshing delight of Orange Creamsicle Cake, a perfect dessert for summer gatherings. This easy poke cake captures the bright flavors of oranges paired with a creamy vanilla base, making it an ideal treat for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying on a sunny day. Each slice is infused with zesty orange goodness and topped with fluffy whipped cream, ensuring it impresses friends and family alike. Prepare in advance to save time on event day and enjoy this vibrant dessert that brings a taste of sunshine to every occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup milk (or vanilla almond milk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 3.4 ounces orange gelatin
• 1 ¼ cup boiling water
• ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 15 ounces canned mandarin oranges (do not drain)
• 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Mix until smooth using an electric mixer.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. While the cake bakes, dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water and mix in the fresh orange juice.
5. Once baked, poke holes all over the cake using a fork and pour the gelatin mixture over it while still warm.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely in the refrigerator for at least two hours.
7. Prepare the topping by mixing together vanilla pudding mix and Cool Whip; spread over chilled cake before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg