Orange Creamsicle Cake
If you grew up loving those iconic orange-and-vanilla ice cream bars, this Orange Creamsicle Cake is going to bring those memories rushing back in the best way. With just a handful of pantry staples and a box of cake mix, this citrusy cake comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Bright, fluffy, and soaked with orange goodness, it’s perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or anytime you’re craving something sunny and sweet.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something endlessly nostalgic about the creamsicle flavor combo. It’s playful, refreshing, and never too heavy. This cake takes those flavors and transforms them into an ultra-moist, citrusy treat that’s a hit with adults and kids alike. Plus, it’s semi-homemade—meaning you get bakery-level flavor without the extra work.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup orange soda
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 box (3 oz) orange Jello powder
Optional Frosting:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional for garnish)
Ingredient Tips & Swaps
- Soda: Use orange soda (like Fanta or Sunkist) for extra citrusy kick, but lemon-lime soda works too in a pinch.
- Jello: The orange gelatin adds that signature “creamsicle” color and punch.
- Frosting Swap: You can also frost this with vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent finish.
- Add-ins: Stir in a handful of mini marshmallows or white chocolate chips for texture!
How to Make It
1️⃣ Mix the Cake Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix white cake mix, orange soda, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange Jello powder until smooth and creamy.
2️⃣ Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
3️⃣ Make the Frosting (Optional)
Whisk vanilla pudding mix with milk until thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Spread evenly over the cooled cake and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4️⃣ Garnish & Serve
Top with orange zest or slices of mandarin orange for a fresh finish. Chill for at least an hour before slicing.
Tips for Success
✔️ Let the cake cool fully before adding frosting to avoid melting.
✔️ Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
✔️ Want extra moisture? Poke holes in the baked cake and pour in a mixture of orange juice and powdered sugar for a citrus soak.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A glass of sparkling lemonade or rainbow sangria
- Light tea or fruit punch at parties
Serve this for birthdays, barbecues, or any event where you want to bring a pop of color and cheer.
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Make Ahead: Bake and chill the cake the day before for best texture.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If fruity, colorful, crowd-pleasing desserts are your thing, try these:
- How This Unicorn Poke Cake Became My Favorite Party Trick
- This Grasshopper Pie Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert with a Mint Chocolate Twist
- These Easter Cookies Everyone Will Be Talking About and Asking the Recipe For
- This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack
- These Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies Are My Favorite Way to Bake Up Instant Joy
Final Thoughts
This Orange Creamsicle Cake is a sunny, fluffy blast of citrusy joy that couldn’t be easier to make. It’s the kind of dessert that always disappears fast and has people asking for the recipe—especially once they realize how few ingredients are involved.
If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your photos and tag @chefmaniac for a chance to be featured. Happy baking! 🍊🍰
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