Name: Orange Dreamsicle Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box white cake mix (15 ¼ oz).; 1 cup cold milk.; ½ cup orange juice.; ½ cup vegetable oil.; 3 oz orange jello.; 1 oz French vanilla pudding mix.; 4 large eggs.; 8 oz whipped topping.; 20 oz crushed pineapples (drained).; 1 cup sour cream.; 1 cup shredded coconut.; 1 ½ cups white sugar.; ½ cup finely chopped pecans.

The Orange Dreamsicle Cake is a citrusy delight that combines the tangy flavor of orange jello with the smoothness of French vanilla pudding. It's then frosted with a creamy mixture of whipped topping, pineapples, and shredded coconut for a tropical twist. Topped with chopped pecans for added texture, this cake is perfect for dessert tables and special occasions. It's best served chilled to enhance the refreshing flavor and to maintain the creamy frosting's texture. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this cake offers a delightful treat for citrus and dessert lovers alike.

Orange Dreamsicle Cake: A Burst Of Citrus And Tropical Flavors

The Orange Dreamsicle Cake is an irresistible dessert that captures the vibrant taste of citrus combined with creamy, tropical goodness. The bright orange jello brings a refreshing flavor that complements the rich French vanilla pudding, creating a soft and fluffy cake base. The real magic lies in the frosting—an indulgent mix of whipped topping, pineapple, coconut, and sour cream, which adds a luscious tropical element. Finely chopped pecans sprinkled between layers give the cake a subtle crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.

INGREDIENTS

White cake mix: 15 ¼ oz, for the cake base.
Cold milk: 1 cup, to moisten the batter.
Orange juice: ½ cup, for extra citrus flavor.
Vegetable oil: ½ cup, to keep the cake moist.
Orange jello: 3 oz, for a burst of citrusy sweetness.
French vanilla pudding mix: 1 oz, for a creamy texture.
Large eggs: 4, added for structure and richness.
Whipped topping: 8 oz, for the frosting.
Crushed pineapples: 20 oz (drained), to give a tropical twist to the frosting.
Sour cream: 1 cup, to balance the sweetness.
Shredded coconut: 1 cup, for added texture.
White sugar: 1 ½ cups, to sweeten the frosting.
Finely chopped pecans: ½ cup, for a nutty flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
Step 2:: In a large bowl, combine cake mix, milk, orange juice, oil, jello, pudding mix, and eggs. Beat the mixture until smooth, adding eggs one by one.
Step 3:: Divide batter into pans and bake for 30 minutes. Cool completely.
Step 4:: Prepare the frosting by mixing drained pineapples, coconut, sugar, sour cream, and whipped topping. Spread frosting between layers.
Step 5:: Sprinkle chopped pecans on the frosting between layers, then frost the cake.

Serving and Storage Tips

Keep the cake refrigerated for the best texture.
Serve chilled to enhance the citrus flavors.

Helpful Notes

Ensure pineapples are well-drained to avoid soggy frosting.
For a stronger citrus flavor, add extra orange zest to the batter.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Martha recommends adding a dash of coconut extract for enhanced tropical flavor.

Making Your Cake Stand Out with Fresh Ingredients

Using freshly squeezed orange juice in the batter and adding shredded coconut not only boosts the flavor but also improves the cake's texture. The combination of creamy and crunchy elements provides a satisfying contrast that elevates the cake from simple to spectacular.

Why You Should Always Serve This Cake Chilled

The Orange Dreamsicle Cake tastes best when served cold. Refrigerating helps the flavors meld together, especially in the frosting, which relies on whipped topping and sour cream for its creamy consistency. The cold temperature enhances the citrusy and tropical elements, making each bite refreshing.

FAQs

Can I use lemon jello instead of orange?

Yes, but it will change the flavor to more of a lemon-based citrus cake.

How long can the cake be stored?

The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until serving.

Summary

This Orange Dreamsicle Cake brings together the sweet and tangy taste of orange jello with the creamy richness of French vanilla pudding. The cake is layered with a tropical pineapple-coconut frosting, which adds an exotic flair to this dessert. A perfect blend of fruit flavors, creamy whipped topping, and crunchy pecans makes this cake a favorite at any gathering. The balance of the citrus and sweet ingredients ensures a light yet indulgent dessert experience. This cake is best served cold to keep the frosting intact and for maximum flavor. Simple to prepare, it makes a great treat for any festive occasion!