Description
This Orange Velvet Cake is a delightful twist on the classic red velvet. With a soft, citrusy flavor from freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, it’s complemented by a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup orange liqueur (for extra flavor)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions
For the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice and sour cream. Mix until just combined.
- If using, fold in the orange liqueur.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Frosting:
- In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and orange juice until well combined.
Assembling the Cake:
- Frost the cooled cakes with the cream cheese frosting.
- Decorate as desired and enjoy!
Notes
- Orange Zest: Ensure you use fresh orange zest for the best flavor.
- Orange Liqueur: If not using, you can substitute with additional orange juice.
- Cooling: Ensure cakes are completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes