Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as bright and cheerful as a sunny day, then this Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is just the ticket! This cake has a delightful citrus flavor that dances on your taste buds, making it perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to cozy weeknights at home. It’s a recipe I cherish because it brings everyone together, and there’s nothing quite like sharing a slice of this soft, velvety cake with friends and family.

The best part? This cake is not only delicious but also easy to make! The vibrant orange color and smooth cream cheese frosting always impress, whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply treating yourself after a long day. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Zesty Flavor: The bright orange notes in both the cake and frosting make every bite feel like sunshine.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, this cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a treat for yourself, this cake fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake the layers in advance and frost them later, making your baking day stress-free.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll only need simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. These wholesome items come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some berries: Mix in fresh raspberries or blueberries into the batter for an added burst of flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend for those needing gluten-free options.
• Swap the frosting: Try a whipped cream topping instead for a lighter finish.
• Try different extracts: Experiment with lemon or lime extracts for a refreshing twist!

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Greasing and flouring three 8-inch round cake pans is essential so that your cakes release easily after baking. Lining the bottoms with parchment paper adds an extra layer of security!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and ensures there are no lumps—this gives your cake that lovely light 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 they’re well combined. This mixture will bring all those fantastic flavors together!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. This step is key—it creates a creamy base that ensures your cake stays moist.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until light and fluffy. Incorporate each egg one at a time; this helps create an airy structure in your batter.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to alternate adding the dry ingredients with your wet mixture into the creamed base. Start and end with the dry ingredients—mix just until everything is incorporated! Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.

Step 7: Add Coloring

If you’re using orange coloring gel for that gorgeous hue, add it now! A little goes a long way—you can achieve just the right shade.

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting—patience pays off here!

And there you have it! Follow these easy steps to create an unforgettable Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

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

Baking can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you create the perfect Orange Velvet Cake.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and butter mix more easily when they’re at room temperature, ensuring a smoother batter that leads to a light and fluffy cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Once all the ingredients are combined, stop mixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the soft, airy texture we desire.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your cakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.

• Let it cool completely: Allow your cakes to cool in the pans for just a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom and ensures they hold their shape.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add additional citrus zest or even a splash of lemon juice to enhance the orange flavor! This gives your cake an extra layer of brightness.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Presenting your Orange Velvet Cake beautifully can elevate any occasion. Here are some ideas for serving this delicious dessert!

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: A few thin slices of fresh orange on top add a vibrant pop of color and enhance the citrus theme.
• Whipped coconut cream: Adding dollops of whipped coconut cream on top or alongside gives a lovely contrast in texture and flavor that complements the cake perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mint tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea complements the sweetness of the cake and cleanses the palate between bites.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad filled with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the frosting.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the tangy orange flavor and adds an indulgent touch.
• Simple green salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to this sweet treat.

Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to share this delightful creation with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time for special occasions or simply to enjoy throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the cake to keep it fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap each layer separately in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• If you’d like a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dessert!

Can I use different frosting for the Orange Velvet Cake?

Absolutely! While the orange cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this cake, feel free to use a vanilla buttercream or even a whipped ganache if you prefer.

How should I store my Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store your Orange Velvet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer freshness. It will stay delicious for several days!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking, and follow the recipe as usual.

Can I add more flavorings to the Orange Velvet Cake?

Definitely! Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of lemon juice for an extra citrus kick!

How do I ensure my Orange Velvet Cake turns out moist?

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid over-mixing once you combine dry and wet ingredients; this will help keep the cake light and fluffy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this scrumptious Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! Its bright flavors and soft texture make it truly special—perfect for celebrations or just because you deserve a treat. Enjoy every moment of baking and sharing this delightful dessert with your loved ones. Happy baking!