Orange Velvet Cake

If you’re looking for a cake that is as delightful to eat as it is to look at, then you’ve found it with this Orange Velvet Cake! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. The soft, velvety texture combined with the bright, refreshing flavor of orange makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving something sweet on a busy weeknight, this cake always delivers smiles.

There’s something incredibly inviting about the way the rich orange flavor dances through each slice. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Join me in creating this beautiful dessert that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this cake comes together.
• Family-Friendly: The bright and cheerful orange flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike—perfect for gatherings!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake the layers ahead of time and frost them later for convenience on busy days.
• Versatile Presentation: Whether you choose to serve it as a layered cake or as cupcakes, it’s sure to impress.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of cream cheese and butter ensures a moist texture that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Orange Velvet Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need to bake this delightful dessert:

For the Cake

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (226g)
• 1 ½ sticks unsalted butter, softened (168g)
• 2 cups sugar (400g)
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 cups cake flour (342g) – see Notes for substitution
• 2 teaspoons baking powder (8g)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda (3g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (3g)
• ½ cup milk (175g)
• ½ cup concentrated orange juice, thawed
• ¼ cup vegetable oil (canola oil) (54g)
• Orange Zest from one orange (Optional)
• 1 tablespoon Orange Extract
• Orange Coloring Gel for desired shade of orange (Optional)

For the Frosting

• 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened (339g)
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened (We used two 8 oz packages)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (4g)
• 1 teaspoon orange extract(4g)
• ½ teaspoon salt(2g)
• 7 cups Powdered Sugar, adjust slightly up or down to your liking (805g)
• Orange Coloring Gel (Optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize your Orange Velvet Cake:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious contrast.
• Infuse with Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an added depth of flavor.
• Switch Up the Citrus: Try lemon or grapefruit juice instead of orange for a different twist.
• Top with Fresh Fruit: Decorate with slices of fresh oranges or berries for an extra pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Greasing and flouring three 8-inch pans is essential here; this ensures that your cakes come out beautifully without sticking. I like to add circles of parchment paper at the bottom of my pans—it makes removing them so much easier!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important because it helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour. Set this mixture aside while we get everything else ready.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, thawed concentrated orange juice, orange extract, and optional orange zest. Mixing these flavorful liquids together enhances their flavors before they mingle with the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In the bowl of your mixer, add softened butter and cream cheese. Mix at medium speed until smooth. This creates a lovely base that will give our cake its rich flavor and velvety texture!

Step 5: Add Sugar Gradually

Gradually sprinkle in the sugar while mixing at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s fluffy. This step builds air into your batter which contributes to that light texture we all adore.

Step 6: Incorporate Eggs One at a Time

Add each room-temperature egg one by one—mixing until just combined after each addition ensures they blend in perfectly without overmixing.

Step 7: Alternate Additions

With your mixer on low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and milk mixture into your batter. Start with the flour mixture and end with it too—this method helps keep everything well integrated without overworking the batter.

Step 8: Divide Batter Among Pans

Carefully divide your fluffy batter evenly among the three prepared pans. You can use a scale if you’re particular about even layers!

Step 9: Bake Until Perfect

Bake at 325 degrees F for about 28-30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when done! Let cool in the pans on a wire rack before turning them out.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Now that you’ve made approximately 8 cups of delicious batter—feel free to use any leftovers for cupcakes! Enjoy sharing this lovely Orange Velvet Cake with friends and family; they’re going to love every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Velvet Cake

Making the perfect Orange Velvet Cake is all about finesse and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and better incorporation of air, leading to a fluffier texture.

• Sift the flour: Sifting not only removes lumps but also aerates the flour, which can result in a lighter cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the gluten from developing too much, keeping your cake tender and moist.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so always start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.

• Allow cakes to cool completely: This is crucial for easy frosting and stacking. If you frost too soon, the frosting can melt or slide off.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake

Serving up your Orange Velvet Cake is just as fun as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: A few thinly sliced oranges on top add a pop of color and enhance the citrus flavor.
• Whipped coconut cream: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free option complements the cake’s richness beautifully while adding a nice contrast in texture.
• Candied orange peel: For an elegant touch, sprinkle candied orange peel on top for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the cake’s rich flavors with its creamy texture.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and adds a healthy element to your dessert spread.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: The warm flavors of coffee or herbal tea complement the citrus notes in the cake perfectly, making it an ideal after-dinner treat.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce adds an indulgent twist that many guests will love!

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bake up this delightful Orange Velvet Cake and impress your friends and family! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake is perfect for meal prep, making it a delightful treat to have on hand for gatherings or a sweet surprise during the week. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it properly to maintain its moistness and flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake layers individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped layers in an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the cake is completely cooled.
• Wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for added protection.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place the wrapped layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• If reheating a whole cake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and warm it for about 10-15 minutes, uncovered.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Orange Velvet Cake.

Can I use regular orange juice instead of concentrated orange juice?

While concentrated orange juice gives a more intense flavor, you can substitute with fresh orange juice. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the texture of your cake.

How do I achieve the perfect color for my Orange Velvet Cake?

Using orange coloring gel can help you get that vibrant hue. Start with a small amount and mix until you reach your desired shade. Remember, it’s always easier to add more than to take away!

What makes Orange Velvet Cake different from other cakes?

Orange Velvet Cake is known for its moist texture and rich flavor profile that combines sweet cream cheese with zesty orange. This unique combination sets it apart from traditional vanilla or chocolate cakes.

Can I make cupcakes with this Orange Velvet Cake recipe?

Absolutely! The batter works wonderfully for cupcakes as well. Just note that they will have little to no dome, so adjust baking time accordingly—typically around 18-20 minutes.

How do I store leftover Orange Velvet Cake?

Store any leftover cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keeping it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped layers as detailed above.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Orange Velvet Cake brings joy and sweetness into your kitchen! Its moist texture and refreshing flavor make it a truly special dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just treating yourself on a Tuesday, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you!