The Orange Dreamsicle Cake is a light, refreshing, and nostalgic dessert that captures the classic flavors of the creamy orange popsicle from childhood. With layers of zesty orange flavor and smooth vanilla cream, this cake is perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and citrusy.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box white or vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Orange Cream Filling:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp orange extract (optional)
For the Orange Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp orange juice
- ½ tsp orange zest
For the Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Make the cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, orange juice, oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the cakes: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the orange cream filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Add orange extract if desired. Refrigerate the filling until ready to use.
- Optional: Prepare the orange glaze: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more orange juice. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar. Set aside.
- Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Add the orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest, and beat until fluffy.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the orange cream filling evenly over the first layer. Place the second cake layer on top. If using the orange glaze, drizzle it over the top of the cake at this stage, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Frost the cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out for a clean finish. Garnish with extra orange zest if desired.
- Chill & Serve: Refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to set. Enjoy your dreamy orange cake!