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Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe

Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 30 reviews

This Moist Orange Layer Cake is a delightful citrus-infused dessert featuring a tender vanilla cake base enhanced with orange gelatin and fresh orange juice for vibrant flavor and moisture. Topped with a smooth, creamy orange buttercream frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations or a refreshing treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 box vanilla cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
  • 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin powder
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans thoroughly, then set them aside to bake your cakes evenly.
  2. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and orange gelatin powder. Add in the fresh orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until the batter is smooth and slightly fluffy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
  3. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Remove the pans from the oven and cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them onto wire racks to cool completely.
  4. Make the Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, starting at a low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase to medium-high until combined. Pour in the heavy cream and orange extract, then beat until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream to loosen or more powdered sugar to thicken as needed.
  5. Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous portion of frosting evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top, then use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the frosting with an offset spatula or create decorative swirls for a rustic, homemade appearance.

Notes

  • Use room-temperature eggs and butter for optimal mixing and texture.
  • Zest oranges before juicing to simplify the process and maximize flavor.
  • Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
  • For a more vibrant cake color, consider adding orange food coloring to the batter.
  • You can substitute fresh orange juice with store-bought pure orange juice if fresh is unavailable.
  • Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange layer cake, moist cake, orange buttercream frosting, citrus cake, homemade dessert, vanilla cake mix, orange zest cake

Find it online: https://savorandsimmer.com/moist-orange-layer-cake-recipe/