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Easy Orange Creamsicle Poke Cake

Close-up of a moist slice of Creamsicle Cake showing the yellow sponge, orange glaze, and white frosting.
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Make this refreshing Orange Creamsicle Cake, a simple summer dessert that captures the nostalgic flavor of the classic frozen treat with moist cake, orange gelatin, and creamy topping.

Ingredients

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  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1 (3 ounce) package orange gelatin
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold orange juice
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Orange zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the yellow cake mix according to the package directions in a 9×13 inch baking pan. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
  2. Prepare the gelatin soak: In a small bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in the boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved. Add the cold orange juice and cold water. Mix well.
  3. Poke the cake: Once the cake is cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a large fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
  4. Pour the gelatin: Slowly pour the orange gelatin mixture evenly over the entire surface of the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours, or until the gelatin is set.
  5. Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  7. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined, creating a light, fluffy orange creamsicle frosting.
  8. Frost the cake: Spread the creamy frosting evenly over the chilled, set gelatin cake.
  9. Garnish with orange zest, if desired. Slice and serve this easy summer layer cake recipe cold.

Notes

  • For an extra bright citrus flavor, use fresh orange juice instead of bottled juice in the gelatin soak.
  • You can substitute the homemade whipped cream frosting with 1 tub of frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed, for a quicker preparation.
  • This dessert is best made the day before serving to allow the gelatin to fully set and absorb into the cake layers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/creamsicle-cake-easy-orange-poke-recipe/