Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings sunshine to your table, then this Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is just the ticket! This cake is not only soft and fluffy but also bursting with zesty orange flavor that brightens any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this cake will surely steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds.

What makes this recipe special is its delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, complemented by the creamy frosting. Just imagine enjoying a slice with a cup of tea or sharing it at a celebration. It’s a treat that feels both comforting and festive!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip this up in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the bright flavors of orange; it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake the cakes in advance, frost them later, and enjoy fresh slices whenever you want!
• Deliciously versatile: You can get creative with flavors and decorations based on your mood!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Orange Velvet Cake requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delightful dessert!

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! Feel free to switch things up according to your preferences:

• Add some spice: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for an extra layer of warmth.
• Fruit twist: Swap out some orange juice for lemon or grapefruit juice for a different citrus flair.
• Nutty addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture.
• Frosting fun: Try using lemon cream cheese frosting instead of orange for a refreshing change!

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans

Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Greasing and flouring three 8-inch round cake pans ensures that your cakes release easily after baking. Lining the bottoms with parchment paper adds an extra layer of protection against sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps aerate the flour and evenly distributes the leavening agents. This step is key for achieving that light and fluffy cake texture!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional zest. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every bite of your cake is infused with that delightful citrus flavor.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. This creamy mixture creates a rich base for your cake. Gradually add in the sugar while beating until light and fluffy—this is where you build airiness into your batter!

Step 5: Add Eggs One at a Time

Incorporate eggs one at a time into your creamed mixture. Mixing well after each addition ensures they are fully integrated. This step is crucial for creating a consistent batter.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding your dry ingredients and wet mixtures to the creamed base—starting and ending with dry ingredients. This technique allows you to maintain that lovely texture without over-mixing.

Step 7: Add Color if Desired

If you want your cake to have an eye-catching hue, now’s the time to add some orange coloring gel! A little goes a long way—just mix until you achieve your desired shade.

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step ensures even cooking so that each layer bakes beautifully.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks. Cooling completely before frosting ensures that everything stays perfectly intact when you decorate!

And there you have it—a delightful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting ready 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 these tips will help ensure your Orange Velvet Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature promotes better mixing and a smoother batter, leading to a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated; overmixing can lead to a denser texture. You want that light, velvety feel!

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cakes to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting and helps it adhere better, resulting in a beautifully frosted cake.

• Customize the color: If you’re using orange coloring gel, add it gradually until you reach your desired shade. This allows you to control the intensity of the color without overwhelming the cake’s natural beauty.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving this vibrant Orange Velvet Cake is all about making it look as good as it tastes! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: Thinly slice fresh oranges and arrange them on top of the frosted cake for a refreshing touch.
• Candied orange peel: Sprinkling candied orange peel adds both flavor and a delightful textural contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the citrus flavors beautifully and adds a refreshing element.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream that balances sweetness with lightness.
• Berry compote: A tangy berry compote (like raspberry or blueberry) provides a nice contrast to the sweet cake and enhances its visual appeal.
• Tea or coffee: Pairing this cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee brings out its flavors and makes for a cozy dessert experience.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, get ready to impress your family and friends with this scrumptious Orange Velvet Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert whenever the craving strikes! Here’s how to store and preserve it for the best taste.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
• To warm, place in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until just heated through.
• Alternatively, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common inquiries about making this delightful cake!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap. Just frost it on the day you plan to serve it for optimal freshness.

What can I use instead of orange extract in this recipe?

If you don’t have orange extract, you can use additional concentrated orange juice or zest for flavor. Just remember that it may slightly alter the texture of the frosting.

How do I know when my Orange Velvet Cake is done baking?

You’ll know your cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should also start pulling away from the sides of the pan.

Why is my cake not as orange as I expected?

If you’re looking for a vibrant orange color, consider using orange coloring gel. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve your desired hue!

Can I substitute gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting brings a little sunshine to your kitchen! Its delightful flavor and vibrant color make it a special treat that’s sure to impress. Enjoy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations—I can’t wait to hear how much you love it!