Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at, then you’ve come to the right place! This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is truly something special. It’s soft, citrusy, and bursting with zesty flavor, making it perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to family gatherings or even just a cozy afternoon treat. Trust me, each bite is a little slice of sunshine!

What makes this cake a favorite in my home is its amazing texture and the creamy frosting that perfectly complements the bright orange flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply want to impress your friends, this cake will surely steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family favorite: The delicious orange flavor has broad appeal—kids and adults alike will love it!
• Make-ahead option: Bake the cake in advance and frost it just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or add different flavors to suit your taste.
• Visually stunning: The vibrant color makes it a showstopper on any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious 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

One of the best things about this Orange Velvet Cake is its flexibility! You can easily modify it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious contrast of flavors.
• Try different fruits: Substitute lemon or lime juice for a different citrus twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular cake flour.

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Greasing and flouring three 8-inch round cake pans ensures that your cakes come out smoothly without sticking. Lining the bottoms with parchment paper makes it even easier!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps aerate the flour and ensures an even texture throughout your cake. Set this aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional zest until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and that fantastic citrus flavor we love!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. This step is crucial because creaming these two ingredients creates a light base for your batter.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually mix in the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then incorporate each egg one at a time. This process helps build structure in your cake while keeping it moist.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Alternate adding your dry mixture and wet mixture into the creamed base. Start with dry ingredients and end with them too—this technique prevents overmixing which can toughen your cake.

Step 7: Add Color If Desired

If you want that bright pop of color in your cake, now’s the time to mix in some orange coloring gel until you’ve reached your desired shade.

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake them for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; every oven is slightly different!

Step 9: Cool Before Frosting

After baking, let your cakes cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely. Cooling properly prevents melting when you add that luscious frosting later on!

Now you’re ready to enjoy making—and eventually devouring—this delightful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting!

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

Baking is an art, and with a few handy tips, you can make your Orange Velvet Cake truly shine!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing, which results in a fluffier cake.
• Do not overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour; this keeps your cake light and airy.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, start checking your cakes a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Cool completely before frosting: If you frost warm cakes, the frosting may melt. Let your cakes cool on wire racks until they are completely cooled to achieve a beautiful finish.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add more zest or adjust orange extract levels to match your taste. This customization can elevate the flavor profile of your cake!

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 delightful ideas to enhance its appeal.

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges add a vibrant color and complement the citrus flavor of the cake.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only look lovely but also add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the frosting.
• Edible flowers: These can bring an elegant touch to your cake, making it perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

• Citrus salad: A light salad made with mixed greens and segments of various citrus fruits provides a refreshing balance alongside the sweet cake.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy vanilla flavor pairs wonderfully with the zesty orange, providing a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fruit tart: A slice of fruit tart can echo the fresh fruit theme while offering different flavors and textures that pair well with your cake.
• Herbed scones: Savory scones can be enjoyed alongside the sweet cake, creating an interesting mix of flavors for an afternoon tea or brunch setting.

Enjoy creating and serving this gorgeous Orange Velvet Cake! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

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, store it properly, and still enjoy its delicious flavor days later.

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 extend its freshness for about a week.
• Ensure the cake is well wrapped to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• To thaw, place the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• If you want to enjoy your cake warm, slice a piece and microwave it for 10-15 seconds.
• For a more even warming, place slices on an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have while making this delightful dessert!

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

Absolutely! While this recipe features orange cream cheese frosting, you can substitute it with vanilla buttercream or chocolate ganache if you’d like to experiment with flavors.

How can I achieve the perfect texture in my Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting?

To get that soft, velvety texture, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Don’t overmix the batter; just combine until smooth for the best results!

What can I do if my cake layers are uneven?

If your cake layers come out uneven, you can level them using a serrated knife or a cake leveler. This will help create a perfectly layered cake when stacking!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting brings joy to your kitchen! It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience filled with zesty flavors that will delight everyone who tries it. Enjoy making this vibrant dessert and don’t hesitate to share your creations with loved ones. Happy baking!