Refreshing Orange Cream Cake: A Perfect Balance of Citrus and Cream

If you love citrus-flavored desserts, this Refreshing Orange Cream Cake is the perfect treat for you! With layers of fluffy, moist cake and a rich, creamy orange filling, this cake combines the best of both worlds: the tanginess of fresh oranges and the indulgent sweetness of cream. Perfect for any celebration, a casual gathering, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s get started with how to make this delicious orange cream cake!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Zest of one orange (optional)

For the Orange Cream Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• Zest of one orange (optional for extra flavor)

For Garnish:

• Orange slices or orange jelly cubes
• Fresh mint leaves (optional for decoration)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the freshly squeezed orange juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Once the batter is fully mixed, pour it into the prepared cake pans and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool for about 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Orange Cream Filling

1. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the orange cream filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in the orange marmalade and orange zest (if desired) until well combined.
4. Set the filling aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes have completely cooled, cut each cake in half horizontally to create four layers of cake.
2. Place the first layer of cake on a serving platter and spread a generous amount of the orange cream filling over the top.
3. Repeat the process with the remaining layers, finishing with the top layer of cake.
4. Use any leftover orange cream filling to spread over the top and sides of the cake.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the cake with fresh orange slices or orange jelly cubes for a pop of color and added flavor.
2. Optionally, decorate with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.
3. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Enjoy!

1. Slice the cake and serve it to your guests or enjoy it with your family.
2. Indulge in the light and creamy layers of this refreshing orange cream cake!

Tips for the Perfect Orange Cream Cake:

• For an extra citrusy flavor, you can add a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier to the cream filling.
• Use fresh, ripe oranges for the best flavor. The orange zest and juice from a fresh orange will give the cake a bright, vibrant taste.
• If you prefer a thicker filling, you can adjust the amount of orange marmalade to your taste.
• This cake can be made a day ahead for better flavor, as chilling it will allow the filling to set nicely.

Conclusion:

This Refreshing Orange Cream Cake is the ultimate citrus dessert. With layers of moist cake and a creamy, tangy orange filling, it’s a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this cake will be a hit at your next gathering. Whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday, or just because, this orange cream cake is sure to be enjoyed by everyone. Make it today and enjoy the delightful balance of citrus and cream in every bite!