Orange Velvet Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings sunshine into every bite, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Orange Velvet Cake! This cake is not just a feast for the eyes with its vibrant color; it’s also incredibly moist and rich in flavor. The soft, velvety texture makes it a beloved favorite for gatherings, celebrations, or even just a cozy afternoon treat.

What truly sets this Orange Velvet Cake apart is its refreshing taste of orange, which brightens up any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply indulging on a busy weeknight, this cake will surely be the star of the show. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this Orange Velvet Cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and citrusy notes are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a weekday dessert, this cake fits in beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it for later; it tastes just as good after a day or two!
• Stunning Presentation: The bright orange hue makes an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this tasty Orange Velvet Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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, preferably 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 (two 8 oz packages)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (4g)
• 1 teaspoon orange extract (4g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (2g)
• 7 cups Powdered Sugar, adjust slightly to your liking (805g)
• Orange Coloring Gel, optional for tinting

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Spice: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm touch.
• Fruit Fillings: Add layers of fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers for extra flavor.
• Different Extracts: Experiment with lemon extract in place of some of the orange extract for a citrus twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture.

How to Make Orange Velvet Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Greasing and flouring three 8-inch pans is essential so that your cake layers come out easily without sticking. I love to line the bottoms with parchment paper; it makes everything so much simpler!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps create an even rise in your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the milk, vegetable oil, concentrated orange juice, orange extract, and optional zest. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your batter; it’s where all that delicious citrus goodness comes from!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In your mixer bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat them at medium speed until smooth. This step creates a rich base that gives your Orange Velvet Cake its signature creamy texture.

Step 5: Add Sugar Gradually

Now it’s time to add the sugar! Gradually incorporate it into the butter-cream cheese mixture while mixing at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. This process helps dissolve the sugar and aerate the mixture—both key for achieving that delightful fluffiness.

Step 6: Incorporate Eggs One at a Time

Add each room-temperature egg one at a time while mixing until each yolk disappears before adding the next. This method ensures thorough mixing and helps maintain that velvety texture we love in our Orange Velvet Cake.

Step 7: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Together

With your mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and wet mixture beginning with the flour. Start with three additions of dry ingredients followed by two wet ones. Mixing just until combined prevents over-mixing—a crucial step to keep our cake tender!

Step 8: Divide Batter Into Pans

Carefully divide your batter evenly among the three prepared pans. A kitchen scale can help ensure they are equal if you want to be precise!

Step 9: Bake Your Cakes

Pop those pans into your preheated oven! Bake them at 325 degrees F for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Let them cool in their pans on a wire rack for about 5-10 minutes before turning them out onto the rack.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Once cooled completely, frost with cream cheese frosting made from those wonderful ingredients we prepared earlier! Slice yourself a piece of this luscious Orange Velvet Cake and enjoy every velvety bite!

Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Velvet Cake

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Orange Velvet Cake turns out as perfect as possible!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them combine better, resulting in a smoother batter that bakes evenly.

• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your cake pans with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes it easier to remove the cakes without damaging their edges.

• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary in temperature; start checking your cakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center. It’s better to pull them out slightly early than risk overbaking!

• Let cakes cool completely: Allowing your cakes to cool fully on a wire rack ensures they maintain their moist texture and makes frosting much easier without melting.

• Adjust the sweetness of frosting: Feel free to tweak the amount of powdered sugar in your cream cheese frosting based on your taste preference. Some like it sweeter, while others prefer a more balanced flavor.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Cake

Presenting your Orange Velvet Cake beautifully will make it even more enjoyable! Here are some fun ideas for serving this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Fresh orange slices: Adding thin slices of fresh orange on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Edible flowers: Sprinkling a few edible flowers around or on top of the cake adds a lovely touch that elevates its presentation.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes of the cake, providing a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a lighter, dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream complements the cake’s richness while adding a tropical flair.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring berries and citrus fruits balances the sweetness of the cake and adds vibrant colors to your dessert table.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Serving your cake with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a comforting experience, perfect for enjoying after dinner or during an afternoon gathering.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create and enjoy a stunning Orange Velvet Cake that will impress everyone at your next celebration! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Velvet Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later, making it a great option for parties or gatherings. Here’s how to properly store and preserve its deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best results, keep the layers separated if you have frosted them.

Freezing

• Wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To freeze frosted cake, ensure it’s fully set first; then wrap tightly in plastic and aluminum foil.

Reheating

• If thawing a frozen layer, leave it in the fridge overnight before bringing it to room temperature.
• For an unfrosted cake, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Frosted cake can be served straight from the fridge or left out for about 30 minutes for a softer texture.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Orange Velvet Cake:

What makes Orange Velvet Cake different from regular cakes?

Orange Velvet Cake stands out due to its unique combination of flavors and its soft, velvety texture. The addition of concentrated orange juice and zest gives it a refreshing citrus burst that regular cakes lack.

Can I use another type of juice instead of orange juice?

While this recipe is specifically for Orange Velvet Cake, you can experiment with other juices like lemon or even tangerine. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile!

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

To achieve that signature velvety texture, ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened properly. Also, do not overmix once you add the dry ingredients; mix just until combined.

Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

How can I enhance the orange flavor further?

For an extra kick of orange flavor, consider adding more orange zest or using fresh orange juice instead of concentrated juice. Just be cautious with liquid ratios!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making this delightful Orange Velvet Cake! It’s not only visually stunning but also packed with rich flavors that will impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy the process of baking this special treat—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Happy baking!