Orange Dreamsicle Cake
A bright and refreshing orange-flavored cake with a moist crumb and citrus zest, perfect for summer gatherings or anyone craving a fruity dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blend all ingredients: orange cake mix, orange jello, oil, water, eggs, and orange extract until smooth.
- Pour batter evenly into two greased and floured 9-inch cake pans.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool completely in pans on a wire rack.
- Split the layers horizontally and assemble with frosting or filling of choice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of fresh orange zest to the batter. If you don't have orange extract, you can substitute with vanilla extract for a different yet delicious profile. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending. Use a toothpick to check doneness; if it comes out with moist crumbs, the cake is perfect. For a fun twist, you can incorporate a layer of No Water Jello Salad as a filling between the cakes.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can enhance its flavor with a light orange glaze or whipped cream frosting. Serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon treat. It pairs beautifully with Butter Rings Coffee Cake for a delightful dessert spread. Fresh berries or a citrus salad make excellent sides to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice a piece and microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through. This cake also freezes well; wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Dreamsicle Cake contains roughly 103 calories, with 0g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 9g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of jello for this cake?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of jello, like lemon or strawberry, to create variations of this cake. Just keep in mind that the final flavor will change accordingly, and you may need to adjust the amount of liquid added to the batter.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, let them come to room temperature before frosting and assembling for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).