Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cake that brings sunshine to your table, then the Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is just the ticket! This delightful cake is not only soft and fluffy but also bursting with zesty orange flavor. It has become a cherished recipe in my home, perfect for everything from busy weeknights to celebratory gatherings. The vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re baking for family or friends.

What I love most about this cake is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that each bite is a little piece of happiness, and the smooth orange cream cheese frosting just takes it over the top!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Tangy: The bright orange flavor shines through every slice, making it perfect for citrus lovers.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, baking this cake is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat; it’s sure to become a family favorite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just an afternoon snack, this cake fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and frost before serving for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Orange Velvet Cake! Each component works together beautifully to bring out that lovely citrus flavor.

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. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

• Switch Up the Citrus: Try lemon or lime juice instead of orange for a different twist!
• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the cake.
• Incorporate Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can give your cake an extra layer of warmth.
• Top It Differently: Instead of frosting, dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped coconut cream for a lighter option.

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by setting your oven to 325°F (163°C). Greasing and flouring three 8-inch round cake pans ensures that your cakes will come out easily after baking. Lining the bottoms with parchment paper makes cleanup even simpler!

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step helps aerate the flour, giving your cake that light texture we all love.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional zest until well combined. These ingredients will add moisture and flavor to your cake!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. This creates a rich base for your batter.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add in the sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Then incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully mixed before adding the next. This method helps create an airy cake texture.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to alternate adding the dry mixture and wet mixture into your creamed base. Start with dry ingredients and end with them too—this keeps everything evenly mixed without overworking the batter.

Step 7: Color Your Batter

If you’re using orange coloring gel for that vibrant hue, add it now! It’s all about making your cake visually appealing as well as delicious.

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake!

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them onto wire racks to cool completely. This step is crucial—you want them fully cooled before frosting!

And there you have it! Follow these steps closely for an unforgettable Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting that you’ll be proud to share with loved ones. Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your Orange Velvet Cake to new heights!

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures better mixing, leading to a fluffy cake.

• Sifting Dry Ingredients: Always sift the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Sifting aerates the flour and eliminates lumps, resulting in a lighter texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, making your cake dense instead of light and airy.

• Check for Doneness: Since ovens can vary in temperature, start checking your cakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when your cake is done.

• Cool Completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely on wire racks before frosting. If they’re warm, the frosting may melt and slide off rather than creating that beautiful finish you desire.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Presenting your Orange Velvet Cake beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to enhance the experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Orange Slices: Add thin slices of fresh orange on top of each slice for a vibrant touch that complements the cake’s flavor.
• Candied Orange Peel: Sprinkle some candied orange peel around the base of the cake for an elegant look and an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and contrast beautifully with the orange tones.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool balance to the zesty flavors of the cake.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped coconut cream offers a dairy-free alternative that pairs wonderfully with citrus desserts.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites and enhance the overall dessert experience.
• Herbal Tea: Serve slices alongside a warm cup of herbal tea such as chamomile or mint for a soothing finish to your meal.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, whether you’re celebrating with friends or treating yourself on a cozy afternoon!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! The cake can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or just to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake, where it will last for about a week.
• For best results, place wax paper between the cake and the lid to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The frosted cake can also be frozen; just ensure it’s fully chilled before wrapping.
• Frozen cake layers can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place a slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may arise as you prepare this delightful cake.

What makes Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting special?

Orange Velvet Cake stands out due to its moist texture and zesty orange flavor. Paired with creamy orange-infused frosting, it’s a refreshing twist on traditional cakes that brings brightness to any occasion.

Can I use different types of frosting with Orange Velvet Cake?

Absolutely! While the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting complements the cake beautifully, you can also try vanilla buttercream or a simple glaze. Each option will provide a unique taste while still highlighting the citrus notes of the cake.

How long does Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting last?

When stored correctly, this cake will stay fresh at room temperature for about three days or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and brightness that’s sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every moment of baking and sharing this delightful treat—happy baking!