This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a fun treat that tastes like summer! It has a light orange flavor mixed with creamy goodness, reminding you of the classic popsicle.
It’s super simple to make, and I love how the bright color makes it look so cheerful! This cake is perfect for parties—just add some whipped cream on top, and watch everyone smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base for your cake. If you’re looking for a homemade option, you can make a simple vanilla cake batter instead. I find a vanilla cake adds a nice depth of flavor!
Orange Soda vs. Juice: Orange soda gives a sweeter taste and lighter texture, while orange juice brings a more natural flavor. I like using soda for an extra boost of sweetness, but go with juice if you want a healthier twist.
Vegetable Oil: This keeps the cake moist. You can swap it for melted coconut oil or even applesauce for a lower-fat option. I’ve used applesauce before, and it works great!
Instant Orange Jell-O: The Jell-O adds flavor and moisture. If you’re avoiding artificial ingredients, you might try making a homemade orange syrup or using a natural gelatin alternative.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt or mascarpone. They provide a nice creaminess while reducing the fat content. I love using Greek yogurt for its tanginess!
How Do I Ensure My Cake is Moist and Fluffy?
The key to a moist cake starts with careful mixing. After you’ve combined the cake mix with wet ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Preheat your oven properly; an accurate temperature helps the cake rise.
- Don’t skip the poking step after cooling—this allows the Jell-O to soak in.
- Chilling the cake helps all the flavors meld beautifully—don’t rush this part!
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup orange soda (or orange juice)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
For the Jell-O Layer:
- 1 packet (3 oz) instant orange Jell-O
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- Orange zest (from 1 orange)
For Decoration:
- Orange sprinkles (for decoration)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Orange Creamsicle Cake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll need an extra 2 hours to chill it in the refrigerator. So, get ready for a fun and refreshing treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, so your cake won’t stick. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, orange soda (or juice), eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. It should look really yummy!
2. Bake the Cake:
Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan. Bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready! Once baked, let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
3. Add the Jell-O Layer:
After the cake is cool, poke lots of holes all over the top using a skewer or fork. This helps the Jell-O soak in deliciously! In a separate bowl, dissolve the instant orange Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until it’s fully dissolved, then pour it over the cooled cake, making sure it fills all those little holes.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping:
In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and orange zest until it’s nice and smooth. Now, gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is combined beautifully.
5. Finish and Chill:
Spread the creamy topping evenly over the Jell-O layer on the cake. Now it’s time for decoration! Sprinkle some orange sprinkles and add fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color. Cover the cake and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for the best flavor and texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s time to serve, cut the cake into squares. Enjoy it chilled, and watch everyone smile as they taste this delightful Orange Creamsicle Cake!
Can I Substitute the Yellow Cake Mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer to make it from scratch, you can use a homemade vanilla cake recipe instead. Just ensure it has a similar texture to a cake mix for best results. You can also try a gluten-free cake mix if you have dietary restrictions.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Orange Soda?
No worries! You can substitute the orange soda with an equal amount of orange juice, or even a mix of orange juice and sparkling water to give it some fizz. Just keep in mind that using soda will add additional sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Jell-O?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other flavors of Jell-O, like lemon or strawberry, for a different twist on the cake. Just make sure it complements the other flavors in the cake, and adjust the zest and garnish accordingly.
