Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your table. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because, this cake stands out with its soft texture and creamy frosting. The vibrant orange hue and zesty notes make it a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Citrus Delight – The combination of fresh orange juice and zest gives this cake an irresistible flavor profile.
• Easy to Make – With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this stunning dessert in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a party or a quiet family dinner, this cake will brighten up the day.
• Versatile Frosting Options – Customize the orange cream cheese frosting to suit your taste, add more zest or adjust the sweetness.
• Impressive Presentation – The vibrant color and smooth frosting make it not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Orange Velvet Cake, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-haves to streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter
• Rubber spatula
• Three 8-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer – Makes it easy to achieve a light and fluffy batter without too much effort.
• Mixing bowls – Different sizes help in organizing your ingredients for seamless preparation.
• Sifter – Ensures that dry ingredients are lump-free, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Wire cooling racks – Allows even cooling of cakes to prevent sogginess on the bottom.

Ingredients

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)

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, thawed concentrated orange juice, vegetable oil, orange extract, and optional orange zest until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add in the granulated sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Incorporate each egg one at a time until fully mixed.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding the dry flour mixture and wet mixture to the creamed base. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is incorporated.

Step 7: Add Color

If using orange coloring gel for added vibrancy, mix it in now until you reach your desired shade.

Step 8: Bake

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Now you’re ready to frost your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy this sweet treat!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Orange Velvet Cake is a delightful experience that enhances its citrusy flavors. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this cake, making it a star at any gathering.

For Celebrations

• Birthday Parties: Decorate the cake with colorful sprinkles or edible flowers for a festive touch.
• Tea Parties: Slice into smaller pieces and serve on elegant platters alongside tea or coffee.

With Fresh Fruits

• Citrus Medley: Pair slices of cake with fresh orange segments, kiwi, or berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Fruit Compote: Serve alongside a homemade fruit compote for added sweetness and texture.

As a Layered Dessert

• Parfait Style: Crumble the cake and layer it with whipped cream and fruit in individual cups for an attractive presentation.
• Mini Cakes: Use small round cutters to create mini cakes, stacking layers with frosting in between.

How to Perfect Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Orange Velvet Cake requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to get precise amounts for consistent results each time.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Cakes Properly: Let the cakes cool in the pans briefly before transferring them to wire racks to avoid sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with Orange Velvet Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mixture of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the cake’s citrus flavor.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a rich contrast to the zesty orange cake, enhancing each bite.
3. Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy coconut cream offers a tropical twist that pairs well with orange notes.
4. Minty Green Salad: A crisp salad with mint, cucumbers, and lemon dressing provides freshness that balances sweetness.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of strawberries dipped in chocolate makes for an indulgent yet complementary treat.
6. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser while echoing citrus flavors without being overly sweet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but certain pitfalls can lead to disappointing results.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure that your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and a fluffy cake texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a tough texture.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer if possible. Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven baking.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Lining your pans with parchment paper is essential for easy cake removal. Skipping this can lead to broken cakes when trying to take them out.
• Not Adjusting for Altitude: If you live in a high-altitude area, you may need to adjust the baking time and ingredient ratios. Research the best practices for your specific location.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Orange Velvet Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm each slice for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free cake flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.

How do I achieve the perfect orange flavor?

Using concentrated orange juice and fresh zest enhances the flavor significantly. Don’t skip these ingredients!

What is the best way to frost my cake?

Use an offset spatula or a butter knife to spread the frosting evenly over each layer. For decoration, consider adding orange zest or candied orange slices on top.

How long does this cake last at room temperature?

The Orange Velvet Cake should not sit out for more than 2 hours at room temperature due to cream cheese frosting.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is not only visually stunning but also packed with zesty flavor that delights any palate. It’s perfect for celebrations or simply as a sweet treat. You can customize it by adding different extracts or toppings like nuts or fruit slices. Try this recipe today and enjoy an uplifting dessert experience!