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This orange creamsicle poke cake transforms your favorite summer treat into a delightful dessert that brings back nostalgic flavors in every bite. The combination of bright citrus and creamy vanilla creates a refreshing cake that disappears quickly at gatherings.
I first made this cake for my daughter's pool party last summer, and it quickly became our most requested dessert. The kids devoured it so quickly that I now always make two when hosting summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- Vanilla cake mix: Saves time while providing the perfect base for our creamsicle flavors
- Eggs: Give structure and richness to the cake
- Milk: Creates a more tender crumb than using water
- Vegetable oil: Ensures a moist texture throughout
- Fresh orange zest: Provides authentic citrus flavor
- Orange JELLO: Infuses vibrant color and sweet orange essence
- Boiling water: Activates the gelatin for proper setting
- Fresh squeezed orange juice: Intensifies the citrus flavor
- Canned mandarin oranges: Add texture and visual appeal to the frosting
- Vanilla instant pudding mix: Stabilizes the frosting and adds creaminess
- Cool Whip: Creates the signature light and fluffy topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Base:
- Mix the vanilla cake according to package instructions but substitute milk for water and add orange zest. This small change makes a huge difference in flavor. The milk adds richness while the zest infuses the batter with essential oils that carry true orange flavor.
- Bake and Cool:
- Pour batter into a greased 9x13 inch pan and bake according to package directions until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. The cake should be warm but not hot when poking holes.
- Create the Poke Holes:
- Use a wooden skewer or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the entire cake surface. Make sure to poke all the way to the bottom but not through the bottom of the cake. Space holes about 1 inch apart for even distribution of the gelatin mixture.
- Prepare the JELLO Infusion:
- Dissolve orange JELLO in boiling water by whisking constantly until no granules remain. Add fresh orange juice to enhance the flavor and cool the mixture slightly. The juice makes the difference between artificial and authentic orange flavor.
- Infuse the Cake:
- Pour the JELLO mixture slowly over the entire cake surface, paying special attention to filling each hole. Work methodically from one end to the other to ensure even distribution. The cake will absorb the liquid as it cools.
- Chill Thoroughly:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours to allow the JELLO to set completely. This resting time also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Patience here is rewarded with better texture and flavor.
- Create the Frosting:
- Blend undrained mandarin oranges with vanilla pudding mix until completely combined. The juice from the oranges helps activate the pudding and adds natural sweetness. Mix until smooth but still textured with orange pieces.
- Add the Whipped Topping:
- Gently fold Cool Whip into the pudding mixture using a spatula with a light hand. Maintain as much air as possible in the mixture for that signature fluffy texture. Overmixing will deflate the frosting.
- Frost and Finish:
- Spread the frosting evenly across the chilled cake creating beautiful swirls with your spatula. The frosting should completely cover the surface with a generous layer. Refrigerate again for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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The mandarin oranges are truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered their magic when trying to enhance the frosting texture and now consider them essential. My husband, who typically avoids fruity desserts, requests this cake specifically for his birthday every year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I store leftover Orange Creamsicle Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- → Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other vanilla-flavored cake mixes, but make sure to follow the package directions and adjust the liquid measurements accordingly.
- → Is there an alternative to using Cool Whip?
You can substitute Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream if you prefer a homemade option for the frosting.
- → Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake can be made the day before serving. Refrigerate it to enhance the flavors and keep it fresh.
- → What can I use instead of mandarin oranges?
If you don't have mandarin oranges, you can use fresh orange segments diced into small pieces.