Introduction

This easy Orange Creamsicle Cake recipe brings back the nostalgic flavor of the classic frozen treat in a creamy, no-bake dessert. With a light orange flavor and fluffy texture, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you crave something refreshingly sweet. For more festive treats, try the Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe or the Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball Recipe.

Ingredients

This dreamy Orange Creamsicle Cake combines the nostalgic flavors of creamy vanilla and bright citrus in a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth with every delightful bite.

• 2 ½ cups (285g) cake flour
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
• 2 ½ teaspoons (12g) baking powder
• 1 ½ sticks (12 Tbsp, 169g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup (190g) frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
• ½ cup (121g) milk
• 1 tablespoon (10g) orange extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• Orange food coloring gel (optional)
• 1 small box (3.4oz/96g) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups (464g) heavy cream or whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon (4g) orange extract
• Powdered sugar (for frosting, to taste)

Timing

Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	55 minutes

Context: This Orange Creamsicle Cake recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great choice for busy bakers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients and Pans

Gather all ingredients for your Orange Creamsicle Cake including cake flour, baking powder, eggs, sugar, butter, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Tip: Bring cold ingredients like eggs and butter to room temperature for better emulsion and a lighter cake texture.

Step 2 — Make the Orange Cake Batter

Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in orange zest and vanilla extract.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) with milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 3 — Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tip: Avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the cakes from falling.

Step 4 — Cool the Cakes Completely

Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10-15 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack. Remove parchment paper if used and allow them to cool completely to room temperature.

Warm cakes will melt the frosting, so ensure they are fully cooled before assembling your Orange Creamsicle Cake.

Step 5 — Prepare the Creamsicle Frosting

Beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix in heavy cream or milk, vanilla extract, and orange extract until smooth and fluffy.

For a stronger orange flavor, add a teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to the frosting.

Step 6 — Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Carefully place the second layer on top and apply a thin crumb coat of frosting over the entire cake.

Chill the cake for 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat before applying the final layer of frosting.

Step 7 — Frost and Decorate

Use an offset spatula to apply the remaining frosting, creating smooth sides and a swirled top. For a classic creamsicle look, you can add orange food coloring to a portion of the frosting and create decorative swirls.

Garnish with additional orange zest or thin orange slices for a fresh, vibrant presentation.

Step 8 — Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the finished Orange Creamsicle Cake for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the frosting to firm up. This makes for cleaner slices and enhances the flavor.

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories	380
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fat	17g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	280mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt for sour cream — Boosts protein while maintaining tangy creaminess in your Orange Creamsicle Cake frosting.
• Almond or coconut flour — Creates a gluten-free, lower-carb cake base with subtle nutty notes.
• Monk fruit or stevia — Reduces sugar content while keeping the sweet orange flavor profile intact.
• Coconut oil instead of butter — Offers a dairy-free alternative that complements the citrus notes beautifully.
• Unsweetened applesauce for oil — Cuts fat significantly while adding natural moisture to the cake batter.
• Oat or cashew milk — Provides a creamy, dairy-free liquid base without overpowering the orange creamsicle essence.
• Reduced-sodium baking powder — Lowers sodium content while maintaining proper cake rise and texture.
• Vanilla protein powder in frosting — Adds protein boost and enhances the classic creamsicle flavor combination.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic creamsicle experience
• Serve alongside fresh orange slices and whipped cream for a refreshing contrast
• Perfect for summer barbecues, birthday parties, and potluck gatherings
• Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with orange zest for elegant presentation
• Complement with citrus-infused beverages like orange tea or lemonade
• Create individual portions using mason jars for portable dessert options
• Serve chilled to enhance the creamy, refreshing orange flavor profile

This Orange Creamsicle Cake shines when served as the centerpiece dessert for warm-weather celebrations. The bright citrus notes and creamy texture make it particularly well-suited for outdoor events where its refreshing qualities can be fully appreciated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using artificial orange extract, which can taste chemical. Fix: Use fresh orange zest and high-quality pure orange extract for authentic flavor.
• Mistake: Overmixing the cake batter after adding dry ingredients. Fix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense, tough Orange Creamsicle Cake.
• Mistake: Not properly creaming butter and sugar, resulting in a flat cake. Fix: Cream for 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy to incorporate air.
• Mistake: Using cold ingredients, which can cause the batter to curdle. Fix: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Mistake: Rushing the cooling process and frosting a warm cake. Fix: Cool layers completely to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.
• Mistake: Skimping on the orange flavor in the frosting. Fix: Balance the vanilla with ample orange zest and a touch of juice for a true creamsicle taste.
• Mistake: Overbaking the cake layers, making them dry. Fix: Start checking for doneness a few minutes early—a toothpick should have moist crumbs.
• Mistake: Using a dull knife to level cake layers, causing crumbs. Fix: Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion for clean, even layers.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container; it will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For a warm slice, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety.

Always allow your Orange Creamsicle Cake to cool completely before storing to maintain its texture and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a nostalgic treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. We hope you love this dessert as much as we do! Try the recipe, leave a comment with your thoughts, and subscribe for more sweet creations like our Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make this Orange Creamsicle Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Orange Creamsicle Cake a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm and the flavors fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh oranges?

You can substitute with high-quality orange juice concentrate or orange extract. Adjust the quantity to taste to maintain the signature Orange Creamsicle Cake flavor.

How should I store leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake?

Keep any leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.