Orange creamsicle poke cake is a bright, refreshing dessert that blends moist vanilla cake with a sweet citrus filling made from real orange juice and sweetened condensed milk. As the glaze soaks into the cake, every bite becomes creamy, zesty, and irresistibly soft. Finished with fluffy whipped topping and a touch of orange zest, orange creamsicle poke cake is an easy, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a cheerful citrus dessert.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This orange creamsicle poke cake
- It’s a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories.
- Every bite is bursting with refreshing citrus flavor.
- Super easy to make, perfect for summer gatherings.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.
- Light and creamy, it’s the ultimate dessert for warm days.
orange creamsicle poke cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine vanilla cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange juice concentrate. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then poke holes all over the surface with the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Pour orange soda evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes. Let it set for 5 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping gently.
- Spread the pudding layer over the cake, then gently layer the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Slice and enjoy your delicious orange creamsicle poke cake!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbs | 50g |
| Sugar | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Ingredients
Gather these tasty ingredients to create your refreshing orange creamsicle poke cake!
- 1 box vanilla cake mix – the base for your cake
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil – adds moisture
- 4 large eggs – binds the ingredients together
- 12 oz can frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed) – for that citrusy kick
- 1 cup orange soda – bubbly sweetness
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix – for creaminess
- 1 cup cold milk – to mix with the pudding
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – creamy layer
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the cream cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances flavor
- 8 oz whipped topping – light and fluffy topping
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Poke Cake
This delightful Orange Creamsicle Poke Cake is a perfect summer treat! With a preparation time of about 15 minutes, a cooking time of 25–30 minutes, and a chilling time of at least 2 hours, you’ll have a creamy, citrusy dessert ready to impress your friends and family.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine vanilla cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange juice concentrate. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 4: Poke Holes
Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then poke holes all over the surface with the handle of a wooden spoon.
Step 5: Add the Orange Soda
Pour orange soda evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
Step 6: Prepare the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes. Let it set for 5 minutes.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping gently.
Step 8: Layer the Cake
Spread the pudding layer over the cake, then gently layer the cream cheese mixture on top.
Step 9: Chill the Cake
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Slice and enjoy your delicious orange creamsicle poke cake!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Extra Time | 120 minutes (chilling) |
| Total Time | 165 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | Chilled and refreshing |
Pro Tips for Making orange creamsicle poke cake
- Use fresh orange juice for vibrant flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before poking holes.
- Chill the cake overnight for the best flavor infusion.
- Top with whipped cream just before serving for a light touch.
How to Serve this orange creamsicle poke cake
- Top with whipped cream and orange zest for a fresh finish.
- Serve chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
- Pair with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
- Drizzle with a light orange glaze for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing combo.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:
Storing Leftovers
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep it in an airtight container for best freshness.
Freezing
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap tightly.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- For a warm slice, use the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is an orange creamsicle poke cake?
An orange creamsicle poke cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of orange and cream in a moist cake. It features a vanilla cake base that is poked with holes and soaked in a mixture of orange soda and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a refreshing citrus flavor. Topped with whipped cream and orange zest, it’s a perfect summer treat!
2. How do I make an orange creamsicle poke cake from scratch?
To make an orange creamsicle poke cake from scratch, start by baking a vanilla cake according to your favorite recipe. Once it’s cooled, poke holes in the cake using a fork. Mix orange soda with sweetened condensed milk and pour it over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Finally, top with whipped cream and garnish with orange zest for a delicious finish!
3. Can I use fresh orange juice instead of orange soda in an orange creamsicle poke cake?
Yes, you can use fresh orange juice instead of orange soda for a more natural flavor. However, keep in mind that the cake may not be as sweet or bubbly. To mimic the sweetness and carbonation of soda, consider adding a bit of sugar and a splash of sparkling water to the fresh orange juice before soaking the cake!
4. How should I store leftovers of an orange creamsicle poke cake?
To store leftovers of your orange creamsicle poke cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. If you notice any excess moisture, you can place a paper towel over the cake before covering it to absorb it!
Final Thoughts
Get ready to indulge in a slice of nostalgia with this delightful orange creamsicle poke cake! It’s a breeze to make and perfect for summer gatherings. Each bite is a creamy, citrusy hug that will transport you back to carefree days. So grab your ingredients, whip it up, and enjoy the sweet rewards of this easy, refreshing dessert!