Description
A simple layer cake capturing the classic orange and vanilla flavor of a creamsicle treat, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- Ingredients called for on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup orange juice (for frosting)
Instructions
- Prepare the cake layers according to the cake mix directions, substituting the required water with 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice. Stir in the orange zest before pouring batter into two greased and floured 8-inch round cake pans.
- Bake the cakes according to the package directions for layer cakes. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the orange gelatin. Dissolve the orange gelatin in the 1/2 cup of boiling water. Stir in the 1/2 cup of cold water. Set aside to cool to room temperature, but do not let it set.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the top surface of each layer.
- Slowly pour half of the cooled liquid gelatin mixture evenly over the top of each cake layer. Allow the gelatin to soak in completely, about 15 minutes per cake.
- Prepare the vanilla cream frosting. In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of orange juice. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the butter mixture until just combined, creating a fluffy vanilla cream frosting.
- Place one gelatin-soaked cake layer on a serving plate. Spread about one-third of the frosting over the first layer. Top with the second cake layer.
- Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For an extra orange flavor boost, use orange extract instead of vanilla extract in the frosting, or add a drop of orange food coloring to the frosting.
- You can use a box of orange pudding mix instead of gelatin for a creamier soak.
- This cake tastes best when served cold.
- Prep Time: 25 min
- Cook Time: 35 min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 45
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 45