What makes orange velvet cake different from traditional red velvet cake?

Orange velvet cake uses fresh orange juice and zest for a bright, citrusy flavor, while red velvet cake has a mild cocoa taste. This easy orange velvet cake is soft, moist, and visually vibrant, making it perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or festive celebrations.

How can I make my orange velvet cake moist?

For a moist orange velvet cake, use buttermilk and room-temperature butter, and avoid overmixing the batter. Adding fresh orange juice enhances both moisture and flavor, giving your cake a tender, soft texture.

Can I make an orange velvet pound cake instead of a layered cake?

Yes. The same batter works well for an orange velvet pound cake. Baking in a loaf pan produces a denser, sliceable dessert that maintains the bright orange flavor and moist texture of the original orange velvet cake recipe.

What frosting works best with orange velvet cake?

Cream cheese frosting is the classic choice, balancing the citrus flavor and adding creamy sweetness. You can also use an orange glaze or buttercream for a smooth, visually appealing finish.

Can I customize the orange flavor in this orange velvet cake?

Absolutely. Adjust the amount of fresh orange juice or zest to increase or reduce citrus intensity. You can also experiment with complementary flavors like vanilla or almond to create a unique, family-friendly version of this easy orange velvet cake.

Do I need special decorations for orange velvet cake?

Not necessarily. Simple orange zest, candied peel, or thin orange slices make your cake visually appealing. You can also explore edible flowers or sprinkles for a festive look while keeping the dessert moist and flavorful.

Orange Velvet Cake – Easy, Moist, and Family-Friendly 2026

Description

A bright and zesty twist on the classic velvet cake, the orange velvet cake is soft, moist, and bursting with citrus flavor. Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or festive occasions, it pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting or an orange glaze for extra tangy sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch round cake):

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1–2 oranges)
1 cup fresh orange juice
½ cup buttermilk
Orange food coloring (optional, for vibrant orange color)

For the Frosting:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons orange juice (to adjust consistency)
Optional: orange food coloring

For Decorations (optional):

Thin orange slices or candied orange peel
Edible flowers or sprinkles
Orange zest for garnish

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Bake Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and orange zest.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with orange juice and buttermilk until smooth. Add food coloring if using.
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare Frosting

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
Add orange juice or food coloring as needed for consistency and color.

Step 3: Frost Cake

Level the cooled cake. Apply a thin crumb coat and chill for 15–20 minutes.
Frost the cake fully and smooth with a spatula.

Step 4: Decorate

Garnish with orange slices, candied peel, or edible flowers.
Sprinkle extra orange zest over the top for a bright, citrusy finish.

Notes

Moisture Boost: Replace half the butter with oil for an even moister cake.
Mini Version: Bake in cupcake liners for single servings.
Make Ahead: Cake can be baked a day before serving; frost and decorate the day of.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert / Celebration Cake
Method: Baked / Frosted / Decorated
Cuisine: American