This Creamsicle Cake is a delightful tribute to the classic orange-vanilla frozen treat we all know and love. Layers of moist orange-spiced cake are paired with creamy vanilla buttercream frosting, creating a perfectly balanced dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating summer or just craving something bright and cheerful, this cake will leave everyone smiling!
Ingredients
For the Orange Spice Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)
- Pinch of salt
For Assembly and Decoration
- Fresh orange slices or zest for garnish (optional)
- Crushed graham crackers or cookies for added texture (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients : In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry : Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the orange juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Pour Batter into Pans : Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
