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 will make anyone smile. It’s a fantastic treat for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or even just a cozy evening at home. I love how this cake can brighten up any occasion, making it a favorite in my household.

Baking this delightful cake is easy and fun! With its vibrant color and creamy frosting, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create something delicious together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The citrusy notes of orange make every bite refreshing and delightful.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll be on your way to baking success in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet, creamy frosting paired with the tender cake.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it; it stays delicious for days!
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to bring this Orange Velvet Cake to life! Here’s what you’ll 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! Here are a few ideas to personalize your Orange Velvet Cake:

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Fruit Twist: Fold in some fresh berries to complement the orange flavor.
• Coconut Infusion: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
• Layer It Up: Create a layered version with additional frosting between each layer.

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the 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 against sticking!

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 there are no lumps. Set this dry mixture aside; we’ll use it shortly!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional zest. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that all the flavors blend beautifully before they meet the dry mixture.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. This step creates a rich base for your batter. Gradually add in the sugar while beating until light and fluffy—this will help incorporate air which gives your cake its lovely texture.

Step 5: Add Eggs One at a Time

Crack in each egg one by one into the creamed mixture. Mixing well after each addition ensures a uniform batter. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect velvety texture.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to alternate adding your dry mixture and wet mixture into the creamed base. Start with about a third of the dry ingredients followed by half of the wet ingredients—repeat until everything is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and airy!

Step 7: Optional Coloring

If you’d like your cake to have an extra pop of color, add some orange coloring gel into your batter now. Mix gently until it reaches your desired shade!

Step 8: Bake

Divide your batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake them for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly during this time!

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks. Allow them to cool completely before frosting—this prevents melting and sliding of that luscious frosting!

Now you’re ready to frost and enjoy this delightful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! Happy baking!

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

Baking is all about enjoying the process and creating something delightful, so here are some tips to ensure your Orange Velvet Cake turns out perfectly!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature helps create a smooth batter, ensuring even mixing and better texture in the final cake.

• Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and baking soda aerates these components, which can lead to a lighter and fluffier cake. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps prevent gluten development, which keeps your cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired velvety softness.

• Cool cakes completely before frosting: If you frost warm cakes, the frosting will melt and slide off. Allowing them to cool completely ensures that your orange cream cheese frosting stays beautifully thick and holds its shape.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: The powdered sugar in the frosting can be adjusted based on how sweet you like your desserts. Start with less and add more until you find the perfect balance for your palate.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving this Orange Velvet Cake is almost as fun as baking it! Here are some creative ways to present this cheerful dessert that will surely impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Edible flowers: These add a touch of elegance and color, making your cake visually stunning.
• Candied orange slices: They provide a lovely decorative element while enhancing the citrus theme of the cake.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of this dairy-free alternative adds a lightness that complements the rich frosting.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake while adding vibrant colors.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of the cake, creating a delightful combination.
• Lemon sorbet: This dairy-free option provides a tart counterpoint that balances out the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
• Herbed tea: A cup of refreshing herbal tea serves as an excellent beverage pairing, enhancing the overall experience with its soothing qualities.

Now you’re all set to bake and enjoy an unforgettable Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time for special occasions, parties, or just to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store and handle this delightful cake.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you have leftover frosting, store it separately in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• For extra protection, place wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• If frozen, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm slice, microwave on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm it in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Orange Velvet Cake!

Can I use another type of juice instead of orange juice?

You can substitute with lemon juice or any other citrus juice, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile of your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting.

How long does Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting last?

When stored properly, your Orange Velvet Cake will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can replace regular cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What should I do if my frosting is too runny?

If your orange cream cheese frosting is too runny, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I decorate this cake with fresh fruit?

Absolutely! Fresh fruits like oranges or berries would complement your Orange Velvet Cake beautifully and add a lovely touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake this wonderful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy to any gathering. Enjoy every moment spent creating this delightful dessert, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones—after all, sharing is what makes these sweet moments even sweeter! Happy baking!