If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze, look no further than this Orange Creamsicle Cake. With its vibrant orange flavor and creamy frosting, this easy poke cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. It combines the classic taste of orange creamsicles with a moist vanilla cake, topped with a luscious orange and vanilla frosting. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- ● 15.25 ounces vanilla cake mix
- ● 3 eggs (room temperature)
- ● 1 cup milk or vanilla almond milk
- ● ½ cup vegetable oil
- ● 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ● 3.4 ounces orange JELLO
- ● 1 ¼ cup boiling water
- ● ⅓ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
For the Frosting:
- ● 15 ounces can of mandarin oranges (do not drain)
- ● 3.5 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
- ● 8 ounces Cool Whip
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cake:
- Mix and Bake: Follow the directions on the vanilla cake mix package, using milk or vanilla almond milk instead of water and adding orange zest. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake: Bake according to the package instructions. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool on a rack for about 10 minutes.
- Poke Holes: Use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
2️⃣ Prepare the Orange JELLO Mixture:
- Dissolve JELLO: In a heatproof bowl, combine the orange JELLO mix with boiling water, whisking until fully dissolved.
- Add Juice: Stir in the fresh orange juice.
- Pour Over Cake: Carefully pour the JELLO mixture over the cooled cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3️⃣ Make the Mandarin Orange Frosting:
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, beat together the mandarin oranges and vanilla pudding mix until well combined.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the orange frosting evenly over the chilled cake.
4️⃣ Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate: Allow the frosted cake to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting and enhance the flavors.
Storage Information
- Leftovers: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is not only a visual delight with its bright orange color but also a taste sensation that will remind you of summer days. It’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or any time you need a sweet treat to cool you down.