Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of sweet citrus wafting through my kitchen instantly transports me to warm summer days, where the sun kisses my skin and laughter mingles with the sound of happiness. This Zesty Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting captures that very essence, turning any occasion into a celebration. Perfectly moist and tender, this cake not only delights the palate but also offers a fun twist on traditional desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll find that this recipe is simple yet stunning—an easy crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore. And if you’re looking to meet dietary needs, options for gluten-free and vegan variations make it even more enticing. Are you ready to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth? Let’s dive into the delightful world of orange velvet! Why is Orange Velvet Cake a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavors: This cake brings a vibrant citrus punch that invigorates your taste buds, making every slice a refreshing delight. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress with this showstopper. Versatile Options: Gluten-free and vegan substitutions ensure that everyone can indulge in this treat, whether it’s for a birthday or a casual afternoon tea. Perfect Texture: Enjoy a moist, tender crumb paired with creamy frosting, striking the ideal balance between lightness and richness. A Visual Delight: The bright orange hue isn’t just for flavor; it’s a feast for the eyes, making it a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering. Orange Velvet Cake Ingredients Let’s gather everything you need to create this delightful dessert! For the Cake Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Provides richness and creaminess to the frosting. Unsalted Butter – Essential for structure and flavor; helps in both frosting and cake. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the cake’s tender texture. Large Eggs – Introduce moisture and assist in binding ingredients. Cake Flour – Ensures a light, soft crumb; substitute with all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch if needed. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Serve as leavening agents for optimal cake rise. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. Milk – Adds moisture to the batter. Concentrated Orange Juice – Delivers bold citrus flavor; fresh juice can be used if reduced for intensity. Vegetable Oil – Increases moisture and tenderness in the cake. Orange Zest – Optional; amplifies citrus flavor with aromatic notes. Orange Extract – Enhances the overall orange flavor; pairs well with juice. Orange Coloring Gel – Optional; used for visual appeal. For the Frosting Powdered Sugar – Key for frosting’s sweetness and texture. Vanilla Extract – Optional; provides depth to frosting flavor. This Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting is not just a treat; it’s sure to bring smiles and brighten any gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take two 9-inch round cake pans and generously grease them with unsalted butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure easy release later. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for extra assurance. Step 2: Mix Cream Cheese and Butter In a large mixing bowl, combine full-fat cream cheese and unsalted butter using a hand or stand mixer. Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting reaches a light and fluffy consistency, which should take another 3-4 minutes. Step 3: Add Eggs and Dry Ingredients Once your cream cheese mixture is fluffy, add in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to combine the dry ingredients and ensure even distribution. This sets the stage for the best Orange Velvet Cake. Step 4: Combine Mixtures With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the whisked dry ingredients and wet components, including milk, concentrated orange juice, and vegetable oil, to the cream cheese mixture. Start with the dry, then wet, and repeat until all ingredients are mixed in smoothly. Finally, gently fold in the orange zest and orange extract, which will enhance the cake’s citrusy essence. Step 5: Bake the Cake Divide the luscious batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cakes, as they should be perfectly golden brown when done. Step 6: Cool the Layers Remove the pans from the oven and let the cakes rest for about 10 minutes. Carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial to prevent the layers from becoming too moist or soggy, allowing for a better assembly later on. Step 7: Prepare the Frosting While the cakes cool, prepare the dreamy cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together remaining cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, and mix in vanilla extract. This mixture should be creamy and spreadable, perfect for frosting your Orange Velvet Cake. Step 8: Assemble the Cake Once the cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, creating a lovely, even layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting for a stunning, smooth finish. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy Allow your Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This waiting period enhances the flavors and makes it easier to cut. Serve with fresh berries or a light beverage for a delightful dessert experience. Orange Velvet Cake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists on the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs! Gluten-Free: Replace cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a lighter, equally delicious cake. Vegan Option: Swap in dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and flax eggs to make this cake plant-based friendly. Extra Citrus: Add lemon or lime zest alongside the orange zest for a refreshing tang that brightens up each bite. Spiced Delight: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can create a warm, comforting flavor that beautifully complements the orange essence. Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the cake by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the frosting for a dramatic contrast and extra indulgence. Imagine the rich chocolate melding with the creamy frosting. Cream Cheese Swiss Meringue Buttercream: For those seeking a lighter option, try using this airy frosting that offers a delightful balance with the dense cake. Feel free to check out my other delicious recipes like Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake or Butterfinger Cheesecake Sweet for more inspiring dessert options! Expert Tips for Orange Velvet Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake. This is especially important for the cream cheese and eggs. Proper Flour Measurement: Avoid a dense cake by measuring flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping it directly. Cool Completely: Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting into a gooey mess. A wire rack works best for this. Frosting Consistency: For a light and creamy frosting, chill it briefly in the refrigerator until it firms up, making it easier to spread on your Orange Velvet Cake. Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the orange zest and extract; they’re essential for enhancing the citrusy notes that define this delightful cake. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the cake’s doneness; it should come out clean from the center, ensuring your Orange Velvet Cake is perfectly baked. How to Store and Freeze Orange Velvet Cake Fridge: Wrap the frosted Orange Velvet Cake in plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 5 days. This preserves moisture and flavor, ensuring each slice tastes delightful. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cake layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before frosting and serving. Reheating: If desired, warm a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This enhances the cake’s tenderness and brings back its lovely moisture. Room Temperature: Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors and achieve the ideal slice. What to Serve with Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Delight in creating a full meal that complements the vibrant flavors of this stunning cake. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness, bursting with flavor. Their tartness enhances each decadent slice of cake. Citrus Salad: A light salad with orange segments, arugula, and a citrus vinaigrette brightens the palate and echoes the cake’s flavor profile beautifully. The combination of textures is invigorating and delightful. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream offers a luscious contrast to the tangy cream cheese frosting, creating an indulgent treat that guests will adore. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints. Lemonade or Citrus Spritzers: Refreshing drinks such as lemonade or fizzy citrus spritzers are ideal companions, enhancing the cake’s zesty essence while cleansing the palate. Served chilled, they bring a lightness to your dessert experience. Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These crunchy bites provide a satisfying texture contrast to the soft cake, while a hint of rich cocoa adds depth to your dessert table. The interplay of flavors creates a delightful surprise for the senses. Creme Brulee: A silky creme brulee offers a creamy, luscious contrast, while its caramelized sugar top adds a sweet, crunchy element. This sophisticated pairing elevates your dessert experience into something truly special. Make Ahead Options This Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The cream cheese frosting can also be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best results, take the frosting out about 30 minutes before using to let it soften. When you’re ready to assemble, layer the chilled cakes with frosting, and let the completed cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for a delightful dessert experience that will impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort! Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best oranges for my cake? Absolutely! For the best flavor, select firm, heavy oranges with a vibrant color—these are generally juicier. Look for a smooth skin without dark spots; blemishes can indicate overripeness. How should I store my Orange Velvet Cake after making it? To store your cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you have leftover layers, they can be frozen. Can I freeze the Orange Velvet Cake? Very! To freeze, wrap the unfrosted cake layers separately in plastic wrap, then cover each in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the layers in the fridge overnight before frosting. What if my cake doesn’t rise properly? No worries! If your cake didn’t rise, check if your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can cause this issue. Also, make sure not to skip the room temperature ingredient step; they mix better and incorporate air, leading to a fluffier cake. Is this Orange Velvet Cake suitable for dietary restrictions? Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend. If vegan options are needed, you can replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based butter, and flax eggs instead of regular eggs—delicious versions that everyone can enjoy! How long can I leave my decorated cake at room temperature? It’s best to let your decorated cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavor and texture of the frosting, making each slice even more delightful. Irresistible Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting This Orange Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert featuring vibrant citrus flavors and a moist texture. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 10 slicesCourse: CakesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake8 oz Full-Fat Cream Cheese Provides richness and creaminess to the frosting.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Essential for structure and flavor.1 cup Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and contributes to cake's texture.3 Large Eggs Introduce moisture and assist in binding.2 cups Cake Flour Ensures a light, soft crumb.1 tsp Baking Powder Leavening agent for cake rise.1 tsp Baking Soda Leavening agent for cake rise.1/2 tsp Salt Balances sweetness.1 cup Milk Adds moisture to the batter.1/2 cup Concentrated Orange Juice Delivers bold citrus flavor.1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Increases moisture and tenderness.1 tbsp Orange Zest Optional amplifying the citrus flavor.1 tsp Orange Extract Enhances the overall flavor.1 tbsp Orange Coloring Gel Optional for visual appeal.For the Frosting4 cups Powdered Sugar Key for frosting's sweetness.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Optional for flavor depth. Equipment 9-inch round cake pansMixing bowlHand mixer or stand mixerSpatulaWire Rack Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.Combine cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl, beat until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until fluffy.Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl.Alternate adding dry ingredients and wet components to the cream cheese mixture. Fold in zest and extract.Divide batter into prepared pans and bake for 28-30 minutes.Let cakes cool for 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack.Prepare frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla.Assemble the cake by layering frosting between cooled cake layers and on top.Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Measure flour correctly to avoid density issues. Allow cake layers to cool completely before applying frosting. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
