Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that will brighten any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! 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 orange hue and zesty flavor make it an irresistible choice for birthdays, family gatherings, or even just a cozy evening at home. This cake is soft, moist, and bursting with citrus goodness—perfect for sharing with friends and loved ones!

What makes this cake even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t have to be a baking expert to create this masterpiece. With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a stunning dessert that everyone will love. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started on this sweet adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The fresh orange juice and zest give this cake its signature citrusy punch that will leave you craving more.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a pro baker to whip up this delicious treat.
• Family-Friendly: This cake is sure to please both kids and adults alike—perfect for any gathering!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake the layers in advance and frost them later; it’s great for busy days.
• Stunning Presentation: Its vibrant color makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! For this Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, we’ll use simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Get ready to enjoy the wonderful aroma of fresh oranges filling 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

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations you might try:

• Add Nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch.
• Change the Citrus: Swap out orange juice for lemon or lime juice if you’re in the mood for something tangy.
• Layer with Jam: Spread a layer of orange marmalade between the cake layers for an extra burst of flavor.
• Decorate Differently: Top with candied oranges or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Greasing and flouring three 8-inch round cake pans ensures your cakes come out easily without sticking. Lining them with parchment paper adds an extra layer of protection.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step helps aerate the flour, ensuring your cake comes out light and fluffy.

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. These ingredients bring moisture and flavor to your cake.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. This creates a rich base that adds creaminess to your cake.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add in the sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time; this step helps build structure in your cake while keeping it moist.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding the dry and wet mixtures into the creamed base—start and end with dry ingredients. Mixing gently prevents overworking the batter which keeps it tender.

Step 7: Add Color

If you’d like your cake to pop even more visually, add orange coloring gel now until you reach your desired shade.

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—a sure sign they’re ready!

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, let your cakes cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks. Allowing them to cool completely ensures they hold their shape when frosting.

And there you have it! Follow these steps closely, and you’ll create an Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting that’s as delicious as it is beautiful! Happy baking!

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

Baking can be a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Orange Velvet Cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your eggs, cream cheese, and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in a lighter cake texture.

• Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Cool completely before frosting: Make sure your cakes are completely cooled before adding the orange cream cheese frosting. If they’re still warm, the frosting will melt and lose its fluffy texture.

• Experiment with zests: For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to add zest from other citrus fruits like lemon or lime. This will add complexity to your cake’s flavor profile.

• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, you might want to adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance between sweet and tangy!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Presenting your Orange Velvet Cake beautifully can elevate its appeal. Here are some delightful ideas for serving this vibrant dessert!

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: A few thin slices of fresh orange on top not only add color but also enhance the citrus theme of your cake.
• Mint leaves: A couple of sprigs of fresh mint can provide a lovely contrast in color and a refreshing aroma.
• Edible flowers: Consider using edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums for an elegant touch that impresses guests.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the citrus notes of the cake, providing a cool contrast that balances flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. Its lightness complements the rich frosting while keeping things refreshing.
• Fruit salad: A simple fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside each slice of cake.
• Herbal tea: Consider serving slices of cake with a warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, enhancing the overall experience with soothing flavors.

Now you’re all set! Whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply treating yourself, this Orange Velvet Cake is sure to bring joy and smiles all around. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness whenever you crave a sweet treat. Here’s how to store it properly!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate it for up to a week to keep the frosting fresh.
• Ensure slices are covered with plastic wrap or placed in individual containers if storing in the fridge.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• For the frosting, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cake layers in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• If the frosting has been frozen, let it thaw at room temperature and re-whip for a creamy texture before spreading on the cake.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about making and enjoying this delightful dessert!

Can I make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is great for prepping ahead. You can bake and freeze the layers or store them in the fridge until you’re ready to frost and serve.

What makes Orange Velvet Cake different from regular cake?

Orange Velvet Cake features a tender crumb from using cake flour, combined with a zesty orange flavor that sets it apart from traditional cakes. The smooth orange cream cheese frosting adds another layer of deliciousness!

Can I use different citrus fruits instead of orange?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with lemon or lime juice and zest; just adjust the quantities for your desired flavor intensity.

How do I achieve the perfect texture for my Orange Cream Cheese Frosting?

Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Gradually add powdered sugar and whip until fluffy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this bright and cheerful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting as much as I do! It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures, and remember, every slice is a little moment of joy. Happy baking!