Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe

If you adore bright, citrusy flavors with a tender crumb, this Moist Orange Layer Cake is truly a star in the world of homemade desserts. Bursting with fresh orange juice and zest, combined with a wonderfully soft texture thanks to the orange gelatin and simple cake mix base, this cake offers both convenience and sophistication. Whether for a birthday, brunch, or just because, it’s a vibrant treat that feels like sunshine on a plate, inviting you to indulge in every luscious bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Moist Orange Layer Cake calls for straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in delivering that perfect balance of moisture, flavor, and color. The mix of fresh and pantry staples makes it approachable yet impressively delicious.

• Vanilla cake mix: A quick and reliable base that ensures a tender crumb every time.
• Orange gelatin powder: Adds a beautiful orange hue, vibrant flavor, and extra moistness to the cake.
• Fresh orange juice: Brings a bright, natural citrus zing that elevates all the other flavors.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake wonderfully soft and gives it that perfect texture.
• Eggs: Help bind everything together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s warmth and balances the citrus notes beautifully.
• Orange zest: Infuses additional fresh orange aroma and taste, making the cake even more vibrant.
• Butter (for frosting): Softened for a light, whipped texture that melts in your mouth.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting into creamy perfection.
• Heavy cream: Adds smoothness and spreadability to the frosting.
• Orange extract (optional): Offers an extra bold citrus punch to the frosting for those who want more orange flavor.

How to Make Moist Orange Layer Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pans

The foundation for any great cake is setting yourself up for success early on. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get the right baking temperature going. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans thoroughly to ensure your cake layers release easily after baking. This little prep work might seem simple, but it makes the whole baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin powder—this combo is what gives the cake its lovely color and moistness. Add fresh-squeezed orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until the batter becomes smooth and slightly fluffy—this aeration is important to keep your cake light and tender with that classic Citrus cake bounce.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans to ensure uniform layers that stack nicely. Place them in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, but don’t just guess—the key is to poke a toothpick in the center and ensure it comes out clean. When they’re done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Patience here means your frosting won’t melt and your layers will stay neat.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

Now for the crowning glory: beat softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually sift in powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to avoid messy clouds of sugar flying everywhere. Add heavy cream and a splash of orange extract if you like a citrus-forward frosting. Beat until the frosting feels smooth and spreadable. Feel free to adjust with more cream for softness or powdered sugar for stiffness. This creamy frosting perfectly complements the tangy, moist layers beneath.

Step 5: Frost and Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and generously slather frosting over the top—it’s the moment the cake starts coming together. Gently add the second layer, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. An offset spatula is your best friend here to smooth the sides or create whimsical swirls for a rustic look that says “homemade with love.” The result is an inviting, luscious cake that’s impossible not to admire.

How to Serve Moist Orange Layer Cake

Garnishes

Enhance your Moist Orange Layer Cake with fresh garnishes that add a final touch of elegance and pops of freshness. Thin slices of orange arranged artfully on top or edible orange blossoms can create a gorgeous presentation. A sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios brings a subtle crunch and a contrasting green color that makes each slice look irresistible.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its bright flavors. Serve it alongside a lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience. Freshly brewed tea or a sparkling citrus soda can balance the cake’s sweetness, making each bite even more refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation up a notch by serving the Moist Orange Layer Cake in individual portions, such as mini cake slices or layered trifle cups. For special occasions, add edible gold leaf for a touch of glamour or drizzle a light orange glaze over the top for added shine and flavor. These little details make your cake not just a treat but a centerpiece worth boasting about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and the layers moist. The cake will maintain its delightful texture and flavor for up to 4 days, making it perfect for savoring over several occasions or sharing with friends.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead or preserve this cake for a special day, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before frosting and assembling to ensure the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Since this is a moist and tender cake, reheating is not usually necessary, but if preferred, a brief 10–15 second warm-up in the microwave can revive the softness of a refrigerated slice. Avoid heating for too long to prevent drying out or melting the frosting. Enjoy it chilled or slightly warmed based on your personal preference.

FAQs

Can I use frozen orange juice instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen orange juice concentrate diluted according to package instructions, but fresh orange juice provides a brighter and more natural citrus flavor that really makes this cake special.

What does the orange gelatin do in the cake?

The orange gelatin adds a subtle citrus flavor, a lovely orange tint, and an extra moist texture that sets this cake apart from standard vanilla cakes.

Is the orange extract in frosting necessary?

Orange extract is optional but highly recommended if you want an intensified citrus punch in the frosting that complements the cake layers beautifully.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make the cake gluten-free, substitute the vanilla cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix of similar style, but be sure to check that the orange gelatin and all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting?

Make sure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting, and keep the cake refrigerated if your home is warm. Using room-temperature butter in the frosting also helps achieve a stable yet creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Moist Orange Layer Cake is a wonderful crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself craving again and again. It’s the perfect combination of easy ingredients and bright flavors that bring joy to any occasion. Once you try this recipe, your go-to cake for sharing happy moments will definitely be set. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress—this cake delivers sunshine on a plate every single time!

Print