Orange Creamsicle Cake

This easy Orange Creamsicle Cake is the perfect treat for summer gatherings! With its delightful blend of orange and vanilla flavors, this poke cake is sure to impress. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with a refreshing orange zest, makes it ideal for barbecues, picnics, or casual family get-togethers. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just enjoying a sunny day, this cake is a must-try that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prep, making it a great option for last-minute occasions.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of orange zest and JELLO creates a vibrant taste that truly captures the essence of summer.
• Feeding a Crowd: With 24 servings, this cake is perfect for parties or potlucks where you need to serve many people.
• Versatile Options: You can easily substitute ingredients like almond milk for dairy-free needs while still keeping the flavor intact.
• No Baking Skills Required: This poke cake is simple enough for beginners, so anyone can make it successfully.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Orange Creamsicle Cake, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when mixing batter to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking; using measuring cups ensures consistency in your cake.

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 Frosting

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

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well blended.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.

Step 3: Create Poke Holes

Once cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of your cake. Be sure to leave enough space between holes so each bite gets plenty of filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In another bowl, dissolve the orange JELLO in boiling water. Stir in fresh squeezed orange juice. Pour this mixture evenly over the poked holes in your cooled cake.

Step 5: Add Mandarins

Spread the undrained mandarin oranges over the top of the cake, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Prepare Frosting

In another bowl, mix together vanilla pudding mix with Cool Whip until smooth. Spread this frosting over top of your cake once it’s set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Enjoy your delicious Orange Creamsicle Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake

Serving your Orange Creamsicle Cake is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or any festive occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dessert shine.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on a decorative plate for a traditional approach.
• Add a dollop of extra Cool Whip on top for added creaminess.

Fruit Garnish

• Pair with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries to enhance the flavor.
• Arrange the fruits around the cake for a colorful presentation.

Ice Cream Delight

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or orange sherbet ice cream for an extra treat.
• The creamy texture complements the cake’s citrusy flavor beautifully.

Party Platter

• Cut the cake into smaller squares and arrange them on a platter.
• This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy at casual gatherings.

Drizzle Topping

• Drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over each slice for added sweetness.
• This creates an appealing visual contrast against the orange frosting.

How to Perfect Orange Creamsicle Cake

To ensure your Orange Creamsicle Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. These simple suggestions will elevate your baking game.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to help the batter mix smoothly and rise evenly.
• Don’t skimp on zest: Adding enough orange zest will intensify the flavor and give your cake that irresistible citrus aroma.
• Let it cool completely: Before adding frosting, allow the cake to cool completely. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a splash of orange extract for an even bolder flavor profile.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour after frosting. This allows flavors to meld together nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Creamsicle Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Creamsicle Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement this delightful cake:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides texture that pairs well with the soft cake.
3. Pineapple Rice: Sweet pineapple rice offers tropical flavors that harmonize beautifully with orange.
4. Potato Salad: A savory potato salad can cut through the sweetness of the dessert, creating balance on your plate.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled veggies provide a healthy contrast to this rich dessert option.
6. Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like sweet tea or lemonade complement the citrusy notes in the cake perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Orange Creamsicle Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and milk. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and affect the texture of your cake.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with the orange zest and juice, to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
• Ignoring cooling times: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting. Adding frosting to a warm cake can melt it, ruining the final presentation.
• Skipping the JELLO step: Ensure you mix the orange JELLO with boiling water thoroughly. Not dissolving it properly can lead to uneven flavor distribution in your Orange Creamsicle Cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture we want from a creamsicle cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking for extra protection against sticking.

Freezing Orange Creamsicle Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Orange Creamsicle Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the cake with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the cake.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat. Place a slice on a plate and cover it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake special?

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is special because it combines refreshing orange flavors with creamy vanilla frosting, creating a delightful summer treat that everyone loves.

Can I use homemade cake instead of cake mix?

Yes! Feel free to substitute homemade vanilla cake for the mix. Just ensure it’s baked in a similar manner for best results.

How do I enhance the orange flavor?

To enhance the orange flavor in your Orange Creamsicle Cake, consider adding more orange zest or using freshly squeezed juice instead of store-bought.

Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Orange Creamsicle Cake a day in advance. Just store it properly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Is there an alternative to Cool Whip?

If you prefer not to use Cool Whip, you can make your own whipped cream by whipping heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form. This will give you a rich and creamy topping.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Creamsicle Cake is not only visually appealing but also bursting with refreshing flavors that make it perfect for any summer gathering. Its versatility allows for customization—consider adding chocolate chips or different fruit toppings! Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy its sweet, nostalgic taste at your next event!

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Orange Creamsicle Cake

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 38 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 24 1x

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Description

Indulge in the sun-kissed delight of Orange Creamsicle Cake, a refreshing dessert perfect for summer gatherings. This poke cake features a scrumptious combination of orange and vanilla flavors, creating a light and fluffy texture that everyone will adore. Topped with a creamy Cool Whip frosting and vibrant mandarin oranges, this cake is not only visually appealing but also bursting with delightful flavors. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a picnic, or just a sunny day treat, this easy-to-make dessert will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

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Ingredients

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• 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 3.4 ounces orange JELLO
• 1 ¼ cups boiling water
• ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 15 ounces mandarin oranges (undrained)
• 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest; mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
2. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
3. Once cooled, poke holes in the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon.
4. In another bowl, dissolve orange JELLO in boiling water; stir in fresh orange juice and pour over the poked holes.
5. Spread undrained mandarin oranges evenly over the cake.
6. Mix vanilla pudding with Cool Whip until smooth and spread over the cooled cake. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg