Velvet Orange Dream Cake

Prepare for a delightful journey back to childhood with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake recipe! This dessert is a celebration of vibrant orange and creamy vanilla flavors, perfectly blended to create a taste that is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Imagine layers of super-moist, tender cake, generously filled with a light and airy orange cream mousse, and crowned with a luscious Orange Vanilla Buttercream frosting. It’s a treat designed to enchant your taste buds from the very first bite, evoking memories of sunny days and classic ice cream truck delights.

If you’re already a fan of the iconic orange creamsicle combination, you’ll be thrilled with how this cake captures that magical essence. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience, promising a burst of fruity tang balanced by smooth, sweet vanilla in every forkful. Whether you’re planning for a festive gathering, a special holiday like Easter, or simply craving something bright and sweet during the spring and summer months, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Contents

Why Our Orange Creamsicle Cake is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Orange Creamsicle Cake, making it a staple in your recipe collection. First and foremost, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. The harmonious blend of zesty orange and sweet, smooth vanilla creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate, reminiscent of those beloved orange creamsicle pops. It’s a flavor combination that appeals to all ages, from kids who remember the ice cream truck to adults seeking a comforting taste of their youth.

Beyond its incredible flavor, the texture of this cake is absolutely divine. We’ve crafted a cake that is exceptionally moist and fluffy, almost melting in your mouth with each bite. The delicate orange cream mousse filling adds an extra layer of decadence, providing a cool and creamy contrast to the tender cake layers. Topped with our signature Orange Vanilla Buttercream, the cake achieves a perfect balance of richness without being overly heavy.

This dessert also shines in its versatility. While it’s undoubtedly perfect for Easter celebrations and warm-weather gatherings, its vibrant flavors make it suitable for any occasion that calls for a touch of sunshine and sweetness. It’s a showstopper that looks as impressive as it tastes, making you the star of any potluck or dinner party. Moreover, its relatively straightforward preparation means you can achieve bakery-quality results right in your home kitchen, impressing family and friends without stress.

The Secret to an Easy Orange Creamsicle Cake: Box Mix Magic

One of the best aspects of this Orange Creamsicle Cake is how effortlessly it comes together, thanks to a clever shortcut that elevates a simple box cake mix into something extraordinary. We understand that not everyone has the time or desire to bake completely from scratch, but that shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor or quality. Our recipe demonstrates how a few key additions can transform a basic orange cake mix into a gourmet-level dessert that tastes truly homemade.

By incorporating instant vanilla pudding, additional oil, eggs, milk, and fresh orange zest, we infuse the cake with unparalleled moisture, richness, and a brighter, more pronounced orange flavor. The instant pudding mix is our secret weapon, working wonders to ensure the cake remains incredibly moist and tender long after baking. The extra oil contributes to a fine crumb and soft texture, while additional eggs add richness and structure. Fresh orange zest is crucial for boosting that authentic, zesty orange aroma and taste, making every bite burst with fresh citrus notes.

This “box mix hack” is a testament to smart baking – it saves you precious time without compromising on the delicious outcome. You’ll follow easy step-by-step instructions that guide you through creating a moist cake base, a creamy mousse filling, and a silky buttercream frosting. The result is a stunning, layered cake that will have everyone convinced you spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, it’s surprisingly simple to master. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delectable dessert; they won’t be able to resist its charm!

For those who love exploring other delicious cake recipes, perhaps you’d enjoy trying a classic Best Angel Food Cake, a vibrant Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake, the renowned Magnolia Bakery’s Coconut Layer Cake, or a rich Super-Moist Chocolate Cake.

Essential Ingredients for Your Orange Creamsicle Cake

Creating this dreamy Orange Creamsicle Cake relies on a few key ingredients that come together to form its signature flavor and texture. We’ve broken down the components into three main sections: the cake, the mousse filling, and the frosting, to make your baking experience as smooth as possible.

For the Enhanced Orange Creamsicle Cake Base:

1 box Duncan Hines Orange Supreme Cake Mix: The foundation for our easy yet flavorful cake.
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding: Adds incredible moisture and richness to the cake.
½ cup canola oil: Contributes to a tender crumb and moist texture.
1 ½ cups milk of choice: Provides liquid for the batter, feel free to use your preferred milk.
4 large eggs: For structure and added richness.
1 teaspoon orange zest: Essential for a burst of fresh, natural orange flavor.

For the Luscious Orange Cream Mousse Filling:

1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding: The base for our fluffy and stable mousse.
2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped into soft peaks to create the light, airy texture of the mousse.
1 tablespoon orange curd: (or 1 teaspoon orange extract) Infuses the mousse with a tangy and sweet orange flavor. Adjust to your preference. Vanilla extract can also be used if you prefer a less intense orange flavor in the filling.

For the Velvety Orange Vanilla Cream Frosting:

1 ¼ cups unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for a smooth, creamy frosting.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the frosting.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Provides a classic vanilla aroma and flavor that complements the orange.
4 tablespoons orange juice: (or 1 ½ teaspoons orange extract) For a bright, fresh orange flavor in the frosting.
6 cups confectioners’ sugar: The main sweetener and thickener for the buttercream.
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk: Used to adjust the frosting consistency to your liking.
Optional: Orange food gel or color: For accent swirls or to enhance the frosting’s vibrant orange hue.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Our Dreamy Layered Orange Cake

Creating this stunning Orange Creamsicle Cake is a rewarding process, and with our clear instructions, you’ll achieve perfect results every time. Follow these steps to bake, fill, and frost your way to a truly unforgettable dessert.

Part 1: Baking the Moist Orange Supreme Cake Layers

Prepare Your Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spray two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans with nonstick spray or a baking release agent like Baker’s Joy. For extra assurance and easier removal, you can also line the bottoms with parchment paper. Set them aside.
Combine Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange cake mix, instant vanilla pudding, canola oil, milk, fresh orange zest, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients on medium speed for precisely 3 minutes until well combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dry cake.
Pour and Prepare for Baking: Divide the cake batter evenly between your two prepared cake pans. Gently tap the pans on your counter a few times to release any trapped air bubbles, which helps create a more even cake layer.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer the pans to the preheated oven and bake for 30-45 minutes. Baking time can vary slightly depending on the size of your pans and your oven. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter.
Cooling Process: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the cake to set slightly. Then, carefully invert the cakes onto the wire rack to cool completely. Ensure the cakes are entirely cool before moving on to the filling and frosting steps to prevent melting.

Part 2: Crafting the Orange Cream Mousse Filling

Whip the Mousse: In a clean mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the instant vanilla pudding mix, heavy whipping cream, and orange curd (or orange extract). Continue beating until the mixture becomes thick, light, and fluffy, resembling a rich mousse.
Adjust Consistency: If the mousse appears too thick, you can slowly add very small amounts of additional heavy cream, beating until you reach your desired light and airy consistency.
Chill for Best Results: Cover the mousse filling and refrigerate it until well chilled. This will help it set and become easier to work with when assembling the cake.

Part 3: Preparing the Orange Vanilla Cream Frosting

Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter until it is light, fluffy, and creamy, typically for 2-3 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the vanilla extract, orange juice (or orange extract), and half of the heavy cream or milk to the butter. Mix on low speed until combined.
Incorporate Sugar: Slowly add the confectioners’ sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
Adjusting Consistency: If your frosting is too thin, add a little more confectioners’ sugar, about a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens. If it’s too thick, add a little more heavy cream or milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the perfect spreadable consistency.
Optional Color Swirls: For decorative swirls on top of your cake, take a small portion of the frosting and mix in a few drops of orange food gel or color. Transfer this colored frosting to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.

Assembling Your Stunning Orange Creamsicle Cake

Now that your cake layers are cooled, and your filling and frosting are ready, it’s time to bring all the elements together to create your masterpiece. Assembling a layered cake is simpler than it seems, especially with these clear instructions.

First Cake Layer: Carefully place one of your completely cooled orange cake layers onto your desired cake pedestal or cake plate. This will be the bottom layer of your cake.
Create a Frosting Dam: Transfer a portion of your Orange Vanilla Cream Frosting into a piping bag (or a zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off). Pipe a generous “dam” of frosting around the perimeter of the cake layer, about ½ inch from the edge. This will create a barrier to hold the mousse filling in place.
Add Mousse Filling: Spoon or pipe the chilled orange cream mousse filling into the center of the frosting dam, spreading it evenly within the border. Ensure the mousse doesn’t go beyond the dam, or it may ooze out when you add the next layer.
Second Cake Layer: Gently place the second cooled orange cake layer on top of the mousse filling, aligning it carefully. Press down lightly to ensure it’s level and secure.
Frost the Cake: Now, it’s time to frost the entire cake (top and sides) with the remaining Orange Vanilla Cream Frosting. Use an offset spatula or a bench scraper to achieve a smooth finish, or leave it with charming rustic swirls.
Decorate with Flair: For an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor, pipe the reserved orange-tinted frosting in decorative swirls on top of the cake. You can also garnish with fresh orange slices, candy orange slices, or vibrant orange sprinkles to make the colors pop and truly highlight the orange creamsicle theme.

Storing & Freezing Your Orange Creamsicle Cake

To ensure your delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake stays fresh and delightful for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Here are some tips for keeping your cake at its best:

Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to serve the cake within a day or two, it can be stored covered at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Make sure it’s in an airtight cake carrier to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerated Storage: For longer freshness, especially with the mousse filling, it’s best to store the cake in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in a cake container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing for Later: If you want to enjoy this cake at a later date, we recommend freezing the cake layers *before* adding the frosting and filling. Wrap each cooled cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month.
Freezing Frosted Cake: While freezing the entire assembled and frosted cake is possible, the texture of the mousse and frosting might change slightly upon thawing. If you must freeze a fully assembled cake, ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight.

Creative Flavor Options & Hacks for Your Orange Dreamsicle Cake Mix Recipe

Our Orange Creamsicle Cake recipe is fantastic as written, but it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize it to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Alternate Cake Mix Choices: While an orange supreme cake mix is ideal for intense flavor, you can easily substitute a yellow or white cake mix. The additions of instant pudding, milk, and orange zest will still ensure a delicious, moist cake bursting with orange goodness. You might consider adding a few drops of orange extract to a plain mix for an extra flavor boost.
Light Frosting Option: If you prefer a lighter, less rich frosting, consider frosting your cake with homemade whipped cream instead of buttercream. Gently fold in a little orange zest or a touch of orange extract to your whipped cream for a subtle creamsicle twist.
Time-Saving Frosting Hacks: For an even quicker dessert, use store-bought frosting. You’ll need two to three tubs of prepared orange or vanilla frosting. To enhance the orange flavor in a vanilla tub, stir in a tablespoon or two of fresh orange juice or a bit of orange zest. Cream cheese frosting also makes a wonderful tangy contrast to the sweet orange cake.
Vary the Citrus: Experiment with different citrus zests in the cake or frosting. Lemon zest could add a brighter, more tart note, or lime zest for a unique twist. You could even use a combination for a multi-citrus flavor.
Add a Crunchy Element: For some textural contrast, try folding finely chopped white chocolate or crushed vanilla wafer cookies into the mousse filling. Alternatively, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or chopped pistachios on top of the frosting for an elegant finish.
Beyond the Layers: This recipe also works beautifully for cupcakes or a single bundt cake. Adjust baking times accordingly for these variations. For cupcakes, pipe the mousse filling into the center before frosting.

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen this spring and summer. With its refreshing flavor profile and the convenience of our easy-to-follow recipe, you might find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Its luscious taste is truly captivating, and for an extra special treat, serve it alongside a scoop of cool vanilla ice cream.

If you’re eager to explore more seasonal sweets, be sure to check out these 25 Slices of Summer Heavenly Desserts for more inspiration!

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Recipe Card: Orange Creamsicle Cake

Author: Kim Lange

Summary: This easy, yummy Orange Creamsicle Cake recipe is totally bursting with a delicious, dreamy combo of orange and vanilla cream flavors!

Prep Time: 30 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Course: Dessert

Servings: 12 Servings

Ingredients

Orange Supreme Cake

1 box Duncan Hines Orange Supreme Cake Mix
½ cup canola oil or vegetable oil
1 & ½ cups milk of choice
1 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon orange zest

Orange Cream Mousse Filling

1 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon orange curd more if you wish (or you could also add in 1 teaspoon of orange extract or vanilla could be used depending on which way you want to flavor the filling.)

Orange Vanilla Cream Frosting

1 ¼ cups unsalted butter room temperature
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons orange juice or 1 & 1/2 teaspoons orange extract
6 cups confectioner’s sugar
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Optional: orange food gel or color for accent color for swirls on top.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F degrees. Spray (2) 8 or 9 inch cake pans with nonstick spray or Baker’s Joy. If desired, also line the bottoms of cake pans with parchment paper for easier removal. Set aside.

Orange Supreme Cake

Using mixer, mix together the cake mix, instant pudding, oil, milk, orange zest and eggs for 3 minutes on medium speed.
Pour cake batter evenly into prepared cake pans and then lightly tap pans on counter to pop any air bubbles in the batter.
Bake for 30-45 minutes depending on size pans you are using or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
Make frosting & filling while cakes are cooling.
Let the cakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove the cakes from the cake pans and let cool completely on a baking rack.

Orange Cream Mousse Filling

Use a mixer, beat the pudding mix, whipping cream and orange curd/orange extract together until thick and fluffy. If mousse is too thick, mix in small amounts of heavy cream to reach desired consistency.
Keep filling refrigerated and chilled before adding to cooled cakes.

Orange Vanilla Cream Frosting

Using mixer, beat butter until creamy. Add confectioner’s sugar, orange juice/orange extract, vanilla and cream/milk. If frosting is too thin, add a little more confectioner’s sugar and if it’s too thick, add a little more cream/milk.
If you are adding extra frosting on swirls on the top, add some orange food color to tint your frosting and add colored frosting to piping bag with large star tip of choice and pipe swirls on top of cake.

Assembly

Place one of orange cake layers on the pedestal or cake plate. Pipe a dam of the orange vanilla cream frosting about 1/2 inch from the edge of the cake layer using a piping bag or ziplok bag with a hole snipped off one of the corners. Fill the center with the orange cream mousse filling and add the next layer of cake on top.
Frost the cake with orange vanilla frosting. Add colored swirls of orange colored frosting on top if desired. Even add orange slices or sprinkles on top for a pop or orange color.

Notes

STORING & FREEZING

You can easily store the orange cake covered at room temperature or refrigerated for up to three days.
Freeze the orange cake before the frosting and filling for best results.
Store for up to a month in the freezer.

Keyword: cake, creamsicle, easter desserts, frosting, orange, spring desserts, summer desserts, vanilla

Orange Dreamsicle cake slightly modified from A Farmgirl’s Kitchen
Orange Cream Filling slightly modified from My Cake School