Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that brings together the dreamy flavors of childhood summers, this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine a moist, citrus-kissed cake infused with orange gelatin, all topped with a cloud-like cream cheese whipped frosting and a swirl of orange marmalade. Every bite is bright, creamy, and utterly irresistible—just like the classic frozen treat, but in cake form! Whether you’re making it for a potluck, a birthday, or just because you need a little sunshine on your table, this cake delivers big flavor with simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building that luscious, nostalgic flavor. From the fluffy cake base to the tangy orange gelatin and dreamy whipped topping, every component adds a layer of taste, texture, and color that makes this dessert truly unforgettable.
- White cake mix: The ultimate shortcut for a soft, tender cake that’s ready in no time.
- Orange soda: Adds a pop of citrus flavor and creates an extra light, moist crumb.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures every bite stays moist and tender even after chilling.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and give the cake structure and richness.
- Orange gelatin: Infuses the cake with vibrant color and intense orange flavor, just like a classic creamsicle.
- Boiling water: Dissolves the gelatin completely so it soaks into the cake evenly.
- Cold water: Cools the gelatin mixture, helping it set with a perfect texture.
- Cream cheese (softened): The foundation for a tangy, creamy frosting that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without a grainy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note to the whipped topping, making it taste just like a creamsicle.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whips up into a fluffy, light topping that’s simply irresistible.
- Orange marmalade (optional): Adds a glossy, citrusy finish and an extra burst of orange.
- Orange zest: The perfect garnish for a bright splash of color and fresh aroma.
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan—this step ensures your Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe pops out easily and bakes up evenly. Taking a few moments here makes cleanup a breeze later.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, orange soda, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and silky, about 2 minutes. The orange soda not only adds flavor but also helps make the cake extra light and fluffy. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top gently.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with a sweet, citrusy aroma that’s almost impossible to resist. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes—just enough so it’s still warm but not steaming hot.
Step 4: Soak with Orange Gelatin
While the cake cools, dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water, stirring until completely smooth. Add the cold water and mix well. Using a skewer or fork, poke holes all over the cake—this is the magic step that lets the gelatin seep into every bite. Slowly pour the gelatin evenly over the cake, letting it soak in for maximum flavor. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours so everything sets beautifully.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Whipped Frosting
For the ultimate creamsicle experience, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. The result? A light, fluffy frosting that tastes like a dream.
Step 6: Frost and Garnish
Once the cake is chilled and the gelatin is set, spread the whipped cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. If you’re feeling extra fancy, warm a bit of orange marmalade and drizzle it over the frosting for a glossy, citrusy finish. Finally, shower the cake with fresh orange zest for a pop of color and freshness. Your Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe is ready to shine!
How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh orange zest is classic, but you can get creative! Try thin twists of orange peel, candied orange slices, or even a few edible flowers for a show-stopping presentation. A drizzle of orange marmalade adds both shine and a sweet-tart hit that perfectly complements the creamy topping.
Side Dishes
Pair this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe with simple sides that won’t overpower its bright flavor. A bowl of fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or even a refreshing fruit salad are all wonderful companions. For something a little more indulgent, a citrusy sorbet is a fun nod to the cake’s creamsicle roots.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the cake into small squares and serve in cupcake liners for a playful, portable treat. You can also layer cubes of cake, whipped topping, and marmalade in clear glasses for a stunning trifle. Or, make cupcakes using the same recipe—just reduce the baking time and add a swirl of frosting on top! Either way, your guests will be wowed by this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays moist and flavorful for days! Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The creamsicle flavors actually deepen as it chills, making that second-day slice even better than the first.
Freezing
To freeze, cut the cake into individual squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then foil. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add a fresh sprinkle of orange zest before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Because this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe is best enjoyed cold, there’s no need to reheat! Simply remove it from the fridge a few minutes before serving to take the chill off, allowing the flavors and creamy topping to shine.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Absolutely! While orange gelatin is key for that signature creamsicle flavor, lemon, pineapple, or even strawberry can give this cake a fun twist. Just remember, swapping the gelatin will change the flavor profile.
Can I make this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe as cupcakes?
Yes, you can! Divide the batter evenly into lined muffin tins and reduce the bake time to about 18–20 minutes. Follow the same poke-and-soak method, then top each cupcake with a swirl of frosting and a sprinkle of zest.
Is there a substitute for orange soda?
If you don’t have orange soda on hand, you can use orange juice mixed with a splash of club soda or sparkling water. This keeps the citrus flavor and the light texture the soda provides.
Why poke holes in the cake?
Poking holes allows the orange gelatin to seep into the cake, infusing every bite with bright flavor and that signature creamsicle look. It’s what makes this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe so moist and flavorful.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Definitely. In fact, this cake is at its best when chilled for several hours or overnight. Making it ahead lets the flavors meld and the texture become even more luscious—perfect for stress-free entertaining!
Final Thoughts
If you love desserts that are equal parts fun and delicious, you owe it to yourself to try this Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe. It’s a celebration of sweet citrus, creamy frosting, and pure nostalgia, all in one easy-to-make package. Give it a whirl—you’ll be dreaming up reasons to make it again and again!
Print
Orange Creamsicle Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12–15 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful, nostalgic dessert that perfectly blends the flavors of creamy vanilla and bright citrus. Featuring a moist white cake infused with orange soda and a vibrant orange gelatin layer, topped with a smooth cream cheese and whipped cream frosting, it’s an irresistible treat that captures the essence of the classic creamsicle in cake form. Perfectly chilled, this cake is refreshing, light, and bursting with citrus flavor — ideal for summer gatherings or any time you crave a sweet, tangy dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup orange soda
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
For the Orange Gelatin Layer
- 1 box (3 ounces) orange gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
For the Frosting
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Optional Garnishes
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- Orange zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick during baking.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, orange soda, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture until smooth and fully incorporated, creating a moist batter infused with citrus flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased pan. Bake in the oven for 28 to 32 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Orange Gelatin: While the cake cools, dissolve the orange gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup of cold water to cool the gelatin mixture.
- Apply the Gelatin Layer: Use a skewer or fork to poke holes evenly all over the surface of the cake. Slowly pour the prepared gelatin evenly over the cake so it seeps into the holes. This step infuses the cake with vibrant orange flavor and moisture. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours until the gelatin is fully set.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and fluffy frosting.
- Frost the Cake: After the gelatin layer is set and the cake is chilled, spread the cream cheese whipped cream frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- Add Optional Garnishes: Warm the orange marmalade slightly to make it easier to drizzle over the frosting for an extra citrusy glaze. Garnish with fresh orange zest to enhance the aroma and add a pop of color.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor and texture, chill the cake for several more hours or overnight before serving. Slice and enjoy a refreshing, creamy citrus treat.
Notes
- This cake tastes best when chilled for several hours or overnight to allow flavors to fully meld.
- To make cupcakes instead, reduce baking time to 18–20 minutes and adjust the gelatin application accordingly.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- The orange marmalade drizzle is optional but adds an extra layer of citrus sweetness and shine.
- Fresh orange zest garnish boosts aroma and visual appeal, use sparingly for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
