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. This cake is perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests. Its soft and velvety texture combined with the zesty orange cream cheese frosting will leave everyone wanting more. Try this crowd-pleaser today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this cake is manageable for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile: Serve it at parties, family dinners, or as a sweet treat during the week; it’s always a hit!
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant color and smooth frosting make this cake visually appealing, showcasing your baking skills.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the blend of ingredients, each slice remains moist and tender.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools. These tools will help ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Three 8-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Cooling racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric Mixer: Ensures the butter and cream cheese are whipped to perfection for a fluffy texture.
• Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking, making it easy to remove the cakes from the pans without damage.

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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, then 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 Cheese

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

Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add the sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients with the wet mixtures 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 a brighter shade, add it now to achieve your desired color.

Step 8: Bake Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among 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 pans for about 5–10 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

This recipe will yield approximately 15 slices of delicious Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting—perfect for sharing! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the experience, making it even more delightful for your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to consider.

Elegant Plating

• Use a cake stand to showcase the layers and frosting.
• Garnish with fresh orange slices or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or orange sorbet for a refreshing contrast.
• Drizzle some chocolate syrup over the ice cream for added flavor.

Fresh Fruit Compote

• Top each slice with a homemade fruit compote made from berries or citrus.
• This adds a sweet and tangy element that complements the cake’s flavors.

Coffee or Tea Service

• Pair slices of cake with freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea.
• The warmth of the beverage enhances the citrus notes in the cake.

How to Perfect Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Orange Velvet Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs, butter, and cream cheese should be at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cake due to excess flour.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry and wet ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy.

• Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Velvet Cake can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette balances sweetness and adds freshness.

2. Berry Medley: A mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries brings tartness that pairs well with dessert.

3. Roasted Nuts: Serve candied or roasted almonds as a crunchy contrast to the soft cake texture.

4. Fruit Sorbet: A light fruit sorbet complements the citrus flavor without overwhelming it.

5. Cheese Platter: Offer soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that provide a creamy, savory balance to sweetness.

6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats add an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with orange flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to a dense cake. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cake tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise quantities.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Forgetting to cool properly: Letting the cake cool in pans for too long can cause it to become soggy. Cool them on wire racks after a brief resting period in the pan.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other citrus juices?

Yes! You can substitute lemon or grapefruit juice for a different citrus flavor while maintaining the essence of this recipe.

How do I achieve the perfect orange color?

Adding orange coloring gel during mixing helps achieve that vibrant hue. Adjust until you reach your desired shade!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake and frost it one day ahead and store it in the refrigerator overnight.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You could try using mascarpone cheese or a plant-based cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for dairy-free options.

How should I decorate my Orange Velvet Cake?

Consider adding fresh orange slices, zest, or edible flowers on top for an appealing presentation.

Final Thoughts

Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is not just delicious but also visually stunning! Its bright flavors make it perfect for celebrations or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even experimenting with different citrus flavors. Enjoy creating this delightful dessert!