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

Scale

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

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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