Creamsicle Cake

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Sure! Here’s a big, full recipe for Creamsicle Cake, complete with introduction, ingredients, detailed instructions, a bit of history, and even a fun nod to all the lovers of this nostalgic treat.

Creamsicle Cake

An old-school, citrus-kissed dream layered with creamy vanilla goodness.

Introduction

If summer had a flavor, it would be orange and vanilla. This nostalgic pairing, most famously found in the classic Creamsicle ice cream bar, is now transformed into a moist, refreshing cake that brings sunshine to any table. A Creamsicle Cake is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, baby showers, or anytime you want to serve up some retro charm with modern ease.

This semi-homemade recipe uses a white cake base with a sweet orange Jell-O soak and a creamy vanilla pudding topping. It’s easy, no-fuss, and always a crowd-pleaser—especially for citrus lovers.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box white cake mix
  • Ingredients listed on the box (typically 3 egg whites, 1/2 cup oil, 1 cup water – check your box)
  • 1 (3 oz) package orange Jell-O
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup cold water

For the Topping:

  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup cold milk
  • 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange extract (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Fresh orange zest or mandarin slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

  1. Preheat your oven according to the cake mix box directions (usually 350°F or 325°F for glass pans).
  2. Prepare the cake mix as directed and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
  3. Remove from oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Orange Jell-O Soak

  1. In a bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water.
  2. Stir in 1/2 cup cold water.
  3. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake.
  4. Slowly pour the Jell-O mixture evenly over the cake.
  5. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until completely chilled and the Jell-O is set into the cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Topping

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and 1 cup cold milk.
  2. Let it sit for 5 minutes until thickened.
  3. Fold in the whipped topping and orange extract (if using) until smooth.

Step 4: Frost and Finish

  1. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cake.
  2. Garnish with orange zest, mandarin slices, or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.
  3. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving for best texture.

Method Summary

  • Mix the cake and bake it.
  • Poke and soak it with Jell-O for juicy citrus flavor.
  • Top with creamy pudding-whipped topping blend.
  • Chill and serve cold for ultimate Creamsicle vibes.

A Slice of History

The original Creamsicle treat, introduced in the 1920s by the Popsicle brand, featured a vanilla ice cream center wrapped in a tangy orange ice shell. It was the first of its kind—cool, creamy, and citrusy—and quickly became a summertime staple in the U.S.

Today, that flavor combo still stirs up memories of sticky hands and barefoot days. The cake version has been around since the 70s and 80s Jell-O craze, when home cooks began poking holes in cakes and flooding them with fruity gelatin. It’s a beloved vintage dessert with new life in modern kitchens.

Conclusion

Creamsicle Cake is a dream come true for those who crave bright flavors and creamy textures. It’s ridiculously easy to make, stores beautifully in the fridge, and satisfies even the most nostalgic sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving it at a celebration or enjoying a chilled slice after dinner, this cake is a cheerful reminder that dessert can be both fun and flavorful.

For the Lovers

To all the orange creamsicle lovers, the pudding texture lovers, the cake lovers, and the retro dessert lovers—this one’s for you. It’s soft. It’s cool. It’s a bite of childhood and a hug from summer.

Would you like a printable version or a stylized photo/graphic of the recipe?

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