Description

This Orange Dreamsicle Cake is a light and creamy summer dessert that perfectly combines the sweet, citrusy flavor of orange soda with the smoothness of vanilla pudding and whipped topping. Moist and fluffy with a refreshing orange zest touch, it’s an easy-to-make baked cake that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you crave a nostalgic yet sophisticated treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake:

1 box orange cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup orange soda
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon orange zest

Frosting:

1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
1/2 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
1/2 cup powdered sugar

Garnish (optional):

Orange slices or zest

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Make the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange cake mix, orange soda, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange zest. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the frosting: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and orange extract (if using) for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Combine frosting ingredients: Fold in the thawed whipped topping and powdered sugar gently until the frosting is smooth and well blended.
Frost the cake: Once the cake has fully cooled, spread the prepared frosting evenly over the cake surface with a spatula.
Chill before serving: Refrigerate the frosted cake for at least 1 hour to set the frosting and enhance flavors.
Garnish and serve: Just before serving, garnish the cake with fresh orange slices or additional orange zest if desired for a fresh and decorative touch.

Notes

For a stronger citrus flavor, substitute part of the orange soda with fresh orange juice or add extra orange zest to the batter and frosting.
This cake can be made as a layer cake using two 9-inch round pans; adjust baking time to about 25-28 minutes per layer.
Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American