Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that elevates any occasion with its bright flavors and fluffy texture. The zesty orange flavor paired with smooth cream cheese frosting creates a cake that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as an indulgent treat, this cake will surely impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this cake without any hassle.
- Citrus Bliss: The vibrant orange flavor makes it a refreshing choice for dessert lovers.
- Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual afternoon tea, this cake fits seamlessly into any event.
- Stunning Presentation: Its rich color and creamy frosting make it visually appealing and perfect for showcasing at gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of orange and cream cheese is universally loved, making it great for sharing.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will help ensure that your baking process goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (8-inch)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are crucial for baking success, ensuring your cake rises perfectly.
- Cooling rack: Allows the cakes to cool evenly without becoming soggy on the bottom, preserving texture.

Ingredients
To create this delightful Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the following 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 to ensure easy release after baking.
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: Combine 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 full-fat cream cheese together until smooth.
Step 5: Add Sugar and Eggs
Gradually add the granulated sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed in before adding the next.
Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and wet mixture to the creamed base. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
Step 7: Add Coloring Gel
If using orange coloring gel, add it now to achieve your desired shade of orange in the batter.
Step 8: Bake Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for about 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 5–10 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your Orange Velvet Cake is as delightful as making it. This cake pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its citrusy flavors and creamy texture. Here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your guests.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Serve slices of the cake alongside fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a refreshing contrast and added sweetness.
Enjoy with Whipped Coconut Cream
- Top each slice with a dollop of whipped coconut cream. This plant-based option adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich frosting beautifully.
Add a Citrus Salad
- A simple citrus salad made from orange segments, grapefruit, and mint can provide a zesty side that echoes the cake’s flavor.
Serve with Tea or Coffee
- Pair your cake with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. The warm beverages enhance the orange notes in the cake and create a cozy dessert experience.
How to Perfect Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfecting your Orange Velvet Cake takes just a few extra steps. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially eggs and cream cheese, are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
-
Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents using too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
-
Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined after adding wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can make the cake tough.
-
Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This helps prevent the frosting from melting and ensures clean layers.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Orange Velvet Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors.
- Citrus Sorbet: A light sorbet made from pureed citrus fruits offers a refreshing palate cleanser alongside the rich cake.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These add a crunchy texture and chocolate flavor that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
- Berry Compote: A homemade berry compote adds fruity tartness that pairs well with the sweet orange frosting.
- Carrot Sticks with Hummus: This healthy option provides crunchiness and earthiness, which can balance out sweet desserts.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream brings creamy richness that complements the tangy orange flavor perfectly.
- Honey-Glazed Pecans: Sweetened nuts add an exciting crunch while enhancing the overall dessert experience.
- Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers featuring seasonal fruits are fun to eat and add freshness to each bite of cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking an Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision. This helps ensure the cake rises properly and has the right texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined to keep your Orange Velvet Cake light and airy.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
- Using cold ingredients: Bring eggs and cream cheese to room temperature. This allows for better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven is different. Use an oven thermometer if necessary to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep fresh for up to 5 days.
- If layered, separate with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Consider freezing without frosting if you plan on adding it later.
Reheating Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes covered in foil.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting.
How can I make my Orange Velvet Cake more moist?
To enhance moisture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of vegetable oil or using buttermilk instead of regular milk.
Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace milk with almond milk or any non-dairy alternative. Additionally, you can use a sugar substitute if desired.
What is the best way to frost my Orange Velvet Cake?
Use a spatula for spreading the frosting evenly. For decorative swirls, try using a piping bag for added flair!
How long does the frosted cake last at room temperature?
Frosted cake can stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days if stored properly under a dome or cover.
Final Thoughts
The Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is not just visually stunning; it offers a burst of citrus flavor that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it by adding different flavors like lemon or using other fruit zests. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its versatility as both an everyday treat and a special occasion dessert!

Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Orange Velvet Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful dessert that captures the essence of citrus bliss. This cake features a fluffy texture complemented by a smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting, making it the perfect centerpiece for any celebration or a sweet indulgent treat at home. With its stunning presentation and crowd-pleasing flavor, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make yet visually striking, it’s an ideal choice for birthdays, afternoon teas, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 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
- ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
- Zest from one orange (optional)
- 1 tablespoon orange extract
- Orange coloring gel (optional)
- 3 sticks (339g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 16 oz (452g) full-fat cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (for frosting)
- ½ teaspoon salt (for frosting)
- 7 cups (805g) powdered sugar (for frosting, adjust to taste)
- Orange coloring gel (optional, for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans with grease and parchment paper.
- In one bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk milk, orange juice, vegetable oil, and orange extract.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar until fluffy; incorporate eggs one at a time.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and wet ingredients to the creamed mixture until just combined. If desired, add orange coloring gel.
- Divide batter among prepared pans and bake for 28–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with orange cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 39g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg