Orange Velvet Cake Recipe: A Zesty, Summer-Perfect American Classic

Introduction: Sunshine on a Plate

There’s something magical about the scent of fresh orange zest filling the kitchen, especially in the heart of summer. This Orange Velvet Cake is my go-to dessert when I want something light, fluffy, and bursting with citrusy brightness. Inspired by the classic red velvet cake, this version swaps out the cocoa for real orange juice and zest, transforming it into a refreshing, vibrant treat that feels like sunshine on a plate.

I first made this cake one sweltering July afternoon, hoping to bring a little brightness to a family barbecue. It was an instant hit—and the cream cheese orange frosting had people begging for seconds (and the recipe). Since then, this cake has earned a permanent spot in my summer baking rotation.

Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Velvet Cake

• 🍊 Vibrant orange flavor in every bite
• 🍰 Soft, velvety crumb that melts in your mouth
• 🍽️ Perfect for summer parties, brunches, or afternoon tea
• ❄️ Delicious served chilled
• 🧁 Pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting
• 🕒 Bakes in under 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Orange Velvet Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• Optional: a few drops of orange food coloring for a bright pop

For the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1–2 tbsp orange juice (adjust for consistency)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

🍰 Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.

🍰 Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Set aside.

🍰 Step 3: Whip the Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and oil until well combined.
2. Add the buttermilk, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla, and vinegar. Mix until smooth.
3. If using food coloring, add a few drops for a more vivid color.

🍰 Step 4: Combine & Bake

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined—do not overmix.
2. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

🍊 Step 5: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla.
4. Adjust consistency with more juice or sugar as needed.

🍊 Step 6: Frost and Assemble

1. Once the cakes are cool, spread a thick layer of frosting between the layers.
2. Frost the top and sides, smoothing with a spatula.
3. Garnish with fresh orange slices, candied peel, or a sprinkle of zest if desired.

Serving Ideas

Serve this chilled for a summer-perfect finish. It pairs wonderfully with:

• ☕ Iced espresso or Earl Grey tea
• 🍨 Vanilla bean ice cream
• 🍾 A glass of sparkling rosé or Moscato

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap unfrosted cake layers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
• Make-ahead: Bake the layers a day ahead and frost before serving for best texture.

Recipe Variations

• 🧁 Cupcakes: Pour batter into lined muffin tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.
• 🥥 Tropical twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter or frosting.
• 🍫 Chocolate-orange: Stir in mini dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• 🍓 Berry bright: Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a light alternative.

Nutritional Highlights

While this is a sweet treat, orange zest and juice offer natural vitamin C and a bright burst of flavor that lifts the richness of the cream cheese and butter.

The Science Behind Velvet Cakes

Velvet cakes are characterized by their fine, soft crumb and lightly tangy taste. This texture is achieved by:

• Buttermilk + vinegar: React with baking soda for lift and tenderness.
• Oil instead of butter: Makes the crumb extra moist.
• Minimal mixing: Prevents gluten development and keeps it fluffy.

Citrus in Summer Baking

Orange is an underappreciated hero in summer desserts. It’s refreshing without being too sour, pairs well with creamy elements, and brings natural sweetness that enhances baked goods.

This cake celebrates citrus in all its glory—perfect for warm-weather cravings when you want dessert to be light and bright, not heavy and dense.

My Favorite Summer Memory with Orange Cake

One summer, my aunt brought an orange cake to our annual family picnic. Instead of frosting, she topped it with powdered sugar and served it cold. It was gone in minutes.

This recipe is my riff on that memory—amped up with rich cream cheese frosting but still true to the original: simple, zesty, and full of summer spirit.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch. Be sure it’s not from concentrate.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Absolutely. It’s purely for appearance—the flavor is all in the zest and juice.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free buttermilk (almond milk + lemon juice), vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese.

Why add vinegar?

It reacts with baking soda to give the cake its signature velvety texture and light tang.

Conclusion: A Slice of Sunshine

Whether you’re planning a garden brunch, a summer birthday, or just want a slice of something sweet and citrusy, this Orange Velvet Cake delivers every time. With its soft crumb, vibrant orange flavor, and creamy frosting, it’s the kind of dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh—like a summer breeze in cake form.

It’s more than just a pretty cake—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, seasonal brightness, and the joy of baking from the heart. So grab your zester, preheat the oven, and bring a little sunshine to your table. One bite, and you’ll understand why this cake has become a beloved favorite.

Print