Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cake that brings sunshine to your table, the Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is just the ticket! This delightful dessert is soft and fluffy, bursting with zesty citrus flavor that dances on your taste buds. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight. Trust me, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe so special is its bright color and delicious orange cream cheese frosting. Each slice is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! You’ll have fun baking it and even more fun sharing it with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this cake is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously refreshing: The bright orange flavor makes every bite feel like a sunny escape.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cake, making it great for gatherings of all ages.
• Make-ahead option: Bake it ahead of time and frost later; it stays moist and flavorful!
• Versatile for occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or an afternoon tea, this cake fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Orange Velvet Cake, you only need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; you might already have many of these staples in your kitchen!

For the Cake

• 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1½ sticks (168g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 cups (342g) cake flour
• 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
• ½ teaspoon (3g) baking soda
• ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
• ½ cup (120ml) milk
• ½ cup (120ml) concentrated orange juice, thawed (do not add water)
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
• Zest from one orange (optional)
• 1 tablespoon orange extract
• Orange coloring gel (optional, for desired shade)

For the Frosting

• 3 sticks (339g) unsalted butter, softened
• 16 oz (452g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 7 cups (805g) powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• Orange coloring gel (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some spice: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
• Fruit-filled delight: Fold in some fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter before baking.
• Nutty crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture in each bite.
• Different frosting: Swap the orange frosting for a lemon cream cheese frosting if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Greasing and flouring three 8-inch round cake pans ensures your cakes come out easily. Lining them with parchment paper helps avoid any sticky situations later on!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step aerates the flour and combines the leavening agents evenly throughout the mix—essential for achieving that perfect fluffy texture!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional zest until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and that vibrant citrus flavor we love so much.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. This creates a rich base that will help incorporate air into your batter—making your cake light as air!

Step 5: Sweeten Up

Gradually add in the granulated sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Then incorporate the eggs one at a time. This process helps achieve that wonderful airy texture we’re aiming for.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Now comes the fun part! Gradually alternate adding your dry mixture and wet mixture into the creamed base. Start with dry ingredients and end with them—mix just until everything is incorporated without overworking it.

Step 7: Add Color If Desired

If you want that extra pop of color in your cake, now’s the time to add some orange coloring gel! Just remember to mix gently until you reach your desired shade.

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake these beauties in your preheated oven for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, allow them to cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Patience here means no crumbly mess when you frost later on!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this luscious Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Baking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve to ensure your Orange Velvet Cake turns out perfectly!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a fluffier cake texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until the ingredients are combined prevents the cake from becoming dense. Overmixing can result in a tough texture, so mix gently!
• Cool completely before frosting – Allowing the cakes to cool fully on wire racks prevents the frosting from melting. A cool cake provides better structure for your beautiful orange cream cheese frosting.
• Adjust sweetness to taste – Feel free to modify the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting based on your personal preference for sweetness. You want it to complement—not overpower—the orange flavor!
• Experiment with decoration – Consider using fresh fruit or edible flowers as decoration. Not only do they enhance the visual appeal, but they also add an extra touch of freshness!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Presenting your Orange Velvet Cake can elevate the experience of enjoying this delicious dessert. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices – Thinly slice fresh oranges and arrange them on top of the frosted cake for a vibrant and zesty finish.
• Candied orange peel – Add a sprinkle of candied orange peel on top or around the base for an extra burst of citrus flavor and texture.
• Mint leaves – A few fresh mint leaves can provide a lovely contrast in color and a refreshing aroma.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the bright flavors of orange velvet cake, creating a delightful temperature contrast.
• Fruit salad – A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits will balance the richness of the cake while adding freshness to each bite.
• Whipped coconut cream – For a dairy-free alternative, whipped coconut cream offers a luscious topping that complements the citrus flavors beautifully.
• Herbal tea or coffee – A warm cup of herbal tea or coffee makes an excellent companion, enhancing the overall experience by providing warmth and comfort alongside dessert.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to enjoy baking this delightful Orange Velvet Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep and special occasions. You can bake it in advance, store it, and enjoy its delightful flavors even days later!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
• If you prefer a warm slice, microwave it for about 10-15 seconds or warm it gently in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Orange Velvet Cake!

Can I make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

How do I store leftover Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of concentrated orange juice?

Absolutely! Fresh orange juice can be used; however, make sure to adjust the sweetness slightly since concentrated juice is sweeter.

What should I do if my frosting is too runny?

If your frosting turns out too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

How long does it take to make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including baking and cooling time.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Its vibrant color and citrusy flavor make it a delightful choice for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making this cake as much as I love sharing it with you. Don’t hesitate to try it out—your friends and family will surely be impressed!