Imagine this: A warm summer afternoon, the sun beaming down, and the air filled with the sweet aroma of citrus. This isn’t just a daydream; it’s the perfect setting for a slice of this Orange Creamsicle Cake. This delightful creation captures the essence of the classic frozen treat, transforming it into a moist and flavorful cake that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Inspired by childhood memories of enjoying refreshing creamsicles on hot summer days, this recipe blends the tangy sweetness of oranges with a light and airy cake. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a sweet treat, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is guaranteed to brighten your day.
Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tbsp orange extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release and prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla cake mix and the orange gelatin mix until they are thoroughly combined and no streaks remain.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed with an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and completely combined, with no lumps.
- Bake the Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
- Cooling Time: Once the cakes are baked, allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely. This prevents them from cracking.
- Creamy Frosting: While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Sugar Rush: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, beating continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Adjusting the Consistency: If the frosting seems too thick, gradually add the heavy cream and the optional orange extract, beating on high speed until the frosting reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Assembly: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then carefully place the second cake layer on top.
- Frosting Finale: Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Use a spatula to smooth out the frosting for a neat and professional look.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the cake and serve immediately, or refrigerate to enhance the flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- For a more intense orange flavor: Increase the amount of orange zest or add a few drops of orange food coloring to the batter.
- Make it extra special: Decorate the cake with fresh orange slices, candied orange peel, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Turn it into cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners and bake according to package directions.
- Freeze for later: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for a quick and delicious treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Follow: The instructions are clear and concise, making this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile: This cake can be adapted to suit various occasions and preferences.
- Deliciously Moist: The combination of cake mix and gelatin creates a wonderfully moist and flavorful cake.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The bright and refreshing flavors of this cake make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Share the Sunshine:
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a taste of sunshine and a reminder to savor the simple pleasures in life. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and spread the joy of this delicious treat.
Don’t forget to tag your creations on social media and share your baking adventures!
Happy Baking!
Keywords: Orange Creamsicle Cake, orange cake recipe, easy cake recipes, summer desserts, birthday cake, party food, baking with kids, dessert recipes, cake decorating, delicious cakes, sweet treats, citrus flavors, gelatin desserts,

Orange Creamsicle Cake
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 minutes 1x
Description
This delightful cake captures the essence of the classic frozen treat, transforming it into a moist and flavorful cake that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tbsp orange extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla cake mix and the orange gelatin mix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed with an electric mixer until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, beating continuously until the mixture is smooth.
- If the frosting seems too thick, gradually add the heavy cream and the optional orange extract, beating on high speed until the frosting reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then carefully place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Slice and serve immediately, or refrigerate to enhance the flavors.
- Prep Time: 12 slices
- Cook Time: 1 hour