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Best Orange Creamsicle Cake

Imagine a slice of cake that combines the tangy sweetness of oranges with the creamy richness of vanilla—essentially, a slice of summertime joy wrapped in a golden sponge. "Best Orange Creamsicle Cake" is that perfect dessert. With its zesty, citrusy flavor and velvety cream cheese frosting, it's the kind of cake that brings people together, whether it's a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy Sunday brunch. This cake is a modern twist on the classic orange creamsicle, offering a delicate balance between tangy and sweet. It’s quick to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and is family-friendly, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. If you’ve ever enjoyed our "Lemon Cake" recipe, you’ll find a comforting similarity here but with the refreshing twist of orange and cream cheese frosting. So, why not give it a try and treat your loved ones to a slice of pure happiness?
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 stick unsalted butter softened
  • For the frosting:
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
  • Make the Cake Batter:
  • Whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the milk, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • Cream the Butter:
  • Using a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Gradually add this mixture to the cake batter, stirring gently until incorporated.
  • Bake the Cakes:
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Frosting:
  • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  • Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is creamy.
  • Stir in the orange juice to create a swirled effect, but don’t overmix—leave some streaks of orange for that signature creamsicle look.
  • Assemble the Cake:
  • Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
  • Spread a generous amount of frosting on top of the first layer and gently press the second layer on top.
  • Frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting, making sure to cover the sides and top.
  • Decorate with orange slices or fresh mint leaves if desired.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
  • Slice and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • What to Serve with "Best Orange Creamsicle Cake"
  • While this cake is a complete dessert on its own, you can enhance the experience with:
  • Cold Beverages: Pair with a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.
  • Sundaes: Offer vanilla ice cream on the side for a double dose of creamy goodness.
  • Fresh Fruit: Serve with a bowl of seasonal fruit for a light, fruity complement.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting "Best Orange Creamsicle Cake"
  • Citrus Zest: Don’t skip the orange zest—it’s key to giving the cake that bright, citrusy flavor. Use a microplane grater for the finest zest.
  • Frosting Swirl: For an authentic creamsicle look, don’t mix the orange juice into the frosting completely—leave some streaks for that classic effect.
  • Timing: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting or sliding layers.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • Storage: Keep the cake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If storing for longer, freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Let the cake come to room temperature before serving. For a quick refresh, lightly mist the frosting with water and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  • Conclusion
  • "Best Orange Creamsicle Cake" is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor, nostalgia, and joy. Its simplicity, tangy sweetness, and creaminess make it the perfect cake for any occasion. Whether you're sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a slice on your own, this cake is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
  • So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s create a slice ofpure, tangy, creamy deliciousness. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you! Happy baking!