Creamsicle Cake

Here’s a delightful recipe for Creamsicle Cake that combines the tangy taste of orange with the sweetness of cream. It’s inspired by the classic creamsicle treat.

Creamsicle Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box of orange cake mix (or vanilla if you prefer a milder orange flavor)
• 1 cup orange soda
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• Zest of 1 orange (optional for extra citrus flavor)

For the Filling:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange

For the Frosting:

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp orange juice
• Orange food coloring (optional for color effect)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

1. Make the Cake:

• In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, orange soda, oil, eggs, and orange zest. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake according to the package directions (usually 25-30 minutes) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them onto wire racks to cool completely.

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, milk, orange juice, and orange zest. Chill for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.

1. Make the Frosting:

• Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
• Add the vanilla extract and orange juice, and mix until fluffy. If you want a more orange-like look, add a drop or two of orange food coloring.

1. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes are cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the orange pudding filling over the top.
• Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the cream cheese frosting.

1. Decorate:

• For a classic creamsicle look, you can decorate with additional orange zest, or slices of fresh oranges on top. For an added touch, try swirling some white and orange frosting together for a creamsicle swirl effect.

1. Chill and Serve:

• Let the cake chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting and filling. Slice and enjoy!

This cake is perfect for a summer treat, a birthday party, or any time you want to indulge in the nostalgic flavor of a creamsicle.