This Creamsicle Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the flavors of summer to every bite. The balance of citrusy orange and creamy sweetness makes it a refreshing treat, perfect for hot days or casual get-togethers.
It’s a simple cake that delivers a punch of flavor with minimal effort. The soft, moist crumb, combined with the bright burst of orange, offers a nostalgic taste reminiscent of creamsicles. Topped with a light whipped topping and a sprinkle of orange zest, it’s a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Full Recipe:
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1 box yellow cake mix
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1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
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4 large eggs
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1 cup water
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1/2 cup vegetable oil
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1 tablespoon orange zest
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1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup whipped topping (optional for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and pudding mix.
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Add the eggs, water, vegetable oil, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Once cooled, frost with whipped topping if desired and garnish with extra orange zest or slices for a decorative touch.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Creamsicle Sheet Cake: A Delightful Citrus Dessert
The Creamsicle Sheet Cake is a light and refreshing dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This cake is inspired by the classic orange creamsicle popsicle, which is beloved for its combination of tangy orange and creamy vanilla. The cake itself is soft, fluffy, and moist, with a bright citrus flavor and a smooth, velvety frosting that enhances the sweetness of the orange. It’s perfect for a wide variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert or something to impress your guests, the Creamsicle Sheet Cake is sure to hit the spot.
A Classic Dessert with a Twist
The concept of combining citrus with creaminess has been a staple in the dessert world for years, and it continues to be a crowd-pleaser. The original creamsicle treat, consisting of an orange-flavored popsicle with a creamy vanilla center, has inspired many desserts, but the Creamsicle Sheet Cake stands out for its ease of preparation and its ability to serve a crowd. This cake is particularly popular in summer, when fresh citrus is in season, and its bright orange color makes it an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love the Creamsicle Sheet Cake
What makes this cake so special is its balance of flavors and textures. The light, fluffy cake provides the perfect base for the rich and creamy frosting, while the hint of orange zest and juice adds a refreshing, tangy element that cuts through the sweetness. This cake is incredibly easy to make, with most of the ingredients being pantry staples, making it a go-to option for bakers of all skill levels.
The beauty of the Creamsicle Sheet Cake is that it’s versatile. It can be made in advance and stored for several days, making it a great choice for busy hosts or anyone who wants to prepare a dessert ahead of time. Additionally, this cake is perfect for large gatherings, as it can be cut into numerous squares, ensuring there’s plenty to go around.
Tips for Making a Perfect Creamsicle Sheet Cake
While the recipe for this cake is straightforward, there are a few tips that will help ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time. First, be sure to properly prepare your baking pan. Greasing the pan and lining it with parchment paper will make it easier to remove the cake after it’s baked, preventing it from sticking to the sides.
When mixing the cake batter, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense, while gentle mixing will keep the texture light and airy. Be sure to fold in the orange zest and juice gently to preserve their fresh, vibrant flavor.
Another tip is to let the cake cool completely before frosting it. If you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting may melt, resulting in a runny texture that doesn’t hold up well. Patience is key, as the frosting will go on much smoother once the cake has cooled.
The Role of the Frosting
The frosting is arguably the best part of this cake, as it’s the perfect complement to the light, tangy cake. Made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, the frosting is simple yet flavorful. It’s smooth and creamy, with just the right sweetness to balance the citrus in the cake.
For an extra touch, consider adding a bit of orange extract to the frosting. This will intensify the citrus flavor, giving your cake a more pronounced orange taste that pairs beautifully with the vanilla. If you prefer a thicker frosting, you can adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or milk until you reach the desired texture.
Serving Suggestions
The Creamsicle Sheet Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed on its own as a dessert, or paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. It’s perfect for summer parties, potlucks, and birthdays, and its bright, cheerful color makes it a beautiful addition to any spread.
For an elegant touch, you can garnish the cake with a few slices of fresh orange or a sprinkle of orange zest. If you’re serving it at a party, consider cutting the cake into bite-sized squares for easy sharing. You can also top it with whipped cream or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the reasons why the Creamsicle Sheet Cake is such a fantastic dessert is its versatility. It’s easy to make, doesn’t require any special equipment, and can be served at a variety of events. Whether you’re hosting a casual BBQ, a family dinner, or a birthday party, this cake will be the perfect crowd-pleaser. Its refreshing orange flavor makes it ideal for warm weather, but it’s also comforting enough to be enjoyed year-round.
This cake can also be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free cake mix and substituting dairy-free milk to make it vegan-friendly. The cake can also be made without frosting for a lighter version, or you can get creative with different types of frosting, such as cream cheese frosting or whipped cream, to give it a unique twist.
Conclusion: A Must-Have Recipe for Your Dessert Collection
In conclusion, the Creamsicle Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the perfect balance of citrusy brightness and creamy sweetness. Its light, fluffy texture and refreshing flavor make it a great option for a variety of occasions, and its simplicity ensures it can be easily whipped up by bakers of all experience levels. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a party or simply enjoy a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Its versatility in both flavor and presentation makes it a standout dessert that can be customized to suit any occasion. The Creamsicle Sheet Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat that brings a touch of sunshine to any event. So, next time you’re looking for a dessert that combines easy preparation with bold flavor, look no further than this delightful cake. You won’t regret it!