Print

Tex-Mex Classic with Sauce, Cheese & Variations Recipe

Tex-Mex Classic with Sauce, Cheese & Variations Recipe

5 from 25 reviews

This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a delightful, nostalgic dessert that combines moist, fluffy cake infused with fresh orange juice and zest, layered with a light and creamy orange buttercream frosting. Perfect for citrus lovers, this cake balances the tangy brightness of orange with sweet vanilla undertones, making it a refreshing treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • 4 large eggs
  • ¾ cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Creamsicle Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
  2. Make the Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, mixing gently until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
  3. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Prepare the Creamsicle Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar alternately with heavy cream and fresh orange juice. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest, then beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easy to spread.
  5. Assemble and Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Add the second layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Decorate the cake with candied orange slices, additional zest, or white chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake set for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to firm up before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside a cup of tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of flavors.

Notes

  • Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best vibrant citrus flavor; avoid artificial extracts.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • Incorporate buttermilk or add 2 tbsp sour cream for extra moistness.
  • Chill frosting slightly before spreading to make it easier to work with.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months.
  • For vegan or gluten-free variations, substitute ingredients as outlined in the recipe guide.

Nutrition

Keywords: Orange Creamsicle Cake, Citrus Cake, Orange Cake, Buttercream Frosting, Creamsicle Dessert, Summer Cake, Citrus Dessert