Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cake that will brighten up any occasion, the Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is just what you need! This delightful dessert combines a soft, citrusy cake with a smooth, tangy frosting that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight treat or the star of your family gathering, this cake has a way of bringing smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is its vibrant orange flavor and inviting texture. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a sweet moment in your day. Trust me, once you try it, this Orange Velvet Cake will become a go-to in your baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, baking this cake is a breeze!
• Family-friendly: The zesty flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike—everyone loves it!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or an everyday dessert, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and frost it just before serving to save time on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need for your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting:

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 Orange Velvet Cake is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Switch up the frosting: Try using lemon cream cheese frosting instead for a different citrus twist.
• Layer it up: Create an impressive multi-layer cake by adding more layers between the frosting.

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 that your cakes will come out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps aerate the flour and ensures an even rise in your cakes.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional orange zest. Combining these wet ingredients creates that wonderful citrus base which contributes so much flavor!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. This step helps create a light texture in your cake.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add the sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Then incorporate the eggs one at a time. Ensuring each egg is well-mixed before adding the next allows for better emulsification.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding your dry mixture with the wet mixture into the creamed base—starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mixing just until incorporated prevents overmixing which could lead to a denser cake.

Step 7: Add Color if Desired

If you’d like to enhance the color of your batter, add orange coloring gel now. It’s optional but can make your cake even more visually appealing!

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This is where your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them onto wire racks to cool completely. Cooling helps set their structure before frosting!

Now you’re ready to enjoy every slice of your delicious Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s sure to be a hit wherever you bring it!

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

Baking is an art, and a few simple tips can take your Orange Velvet Cake to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your eggs, butter, and cream cheese at room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, creating a light and fluffy batter that bakes evenly.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Keeping it light and airy is key to achieving that velvety texture.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached—this ensures perfect baking without being undercooked.

• Chill your frosting: If your orange cream cheese frosting is too soft, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to spread and gives it a sturdier texture for decorating.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Orange Velvet Cake beautifully can make all the difference when sharing this delightful treat with family and friends. Here are some ideas to present your cake in style:

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: A few thin slices of fresh orange placed on top of the cake can add a vibrant pop of color and citrus aroma.
• Mint leaves: A couple of fresh mint leaves can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake, enhancing its visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream complements the zesty flavor of the cake beautifully—perfect for balancing sweetness.
• Mixed berry compote: A warm berry compote adds a tangy element that cuts through the richness of the frosting while providing a lovely splash of color on the plate.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a lighter option, serve whipped coconut cream alongside the cake; its subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with the orange flavors.
• Fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake and complements its citrus notes perfectly.

Enjoy spreading joy with this scrumptious Orange Velvet Cake! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you need a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. 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 delightful flavors whenever you like. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself throughout the week, here are some handy tips for storing this delicious cake.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, slice the cake into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw slices of cake in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• For a warm treat, microwave individual slices on low power for 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use a different type of frosting on my Orange Velvet Cake?

Absolutely! While the orange cream cheese frosting is delightful, you can experiment with other frostings like whipped cream or a simple vanilla buttercream if you prefer.

How do I make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting more vibrant?

To enhance the visual appeal of your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, consider adding orange coloring gel to the batter. This will give your cake an even brighter hue!

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute full-fat cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use plant-based butter to make it dairy-free without compromising flavor.

How long does the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting last?

The orange cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this vibrant and flavorful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy and warmth to any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures and let your friends and family enjoy this citrusy delight. Happy baking!