Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake Recipe

The Ultimate Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake Recipe for Summer

Crafting a dreamy orange creamsicle ice cream cake brings nostalgic summer memories flooding back to life.

Sweet childhood flavors dance across your taste buds with each creamy bite.

Layers of vibrant citrus and smooth vanilla create a dessert that feels like pure magic.

Soft, pillowy textures mingle with bright, tangy notes in this delightful treat.

Cool and refreshing, the cake promises a delectable escape from ordinary desserts.

Whipping up this simple yet spectacular confection requires minimal effort and maximum enjoyment.

Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake Fun

  • Craft a Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Create a show-stopping treat that combines cake and ice cream in one incredible dessert, perfect for impressing family and friends.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by swapping flavors or adding personal touches like different candies or zest to make it uniquely yours.
  • Minimal Baking Skills Required: Enjoy a complex-looking dessert that comes together with simple steps, making it accessible for bakers of all experience levels.
  • Celebrate Any Special Moment: Ideal for birthdays, summer gatherings, or when you want a delightful sweet treat that feels extra special and memorable.

Ingredients For Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake

Cake Layer:
  • Yellow Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides a soft and fluffy foundation for the dessert.
  • Eggs: Bind the cake ingredients and contribute to the cake's structure.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures moisture and tenderness in the cake layer.
Gelatin and Flavor Layer:
  • Orange JELLO: Adds vibrant orange flavor and creates a colorful gelatin layer.
  • Water: Dissolves the JELLO for smooth distribution over the cake.
Ice Cream Components:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, tangy base for the ice cream mixture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the ice cream and helps create a smooth texture.
  • Milk: Adds liquid and helps blend the ice cream ingredients.
  • Cool Whip: Creates a light and creamy texture in the ice cream layers.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the white ice cream layer.
Decoration and Finishing:
  • Cool Whip: Used for icing the exterior of the cake.
  • Orange Candy: Provides a decorative and flavorful garnish.

How To Make Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Bake The Cake Base

Preheat oven to 350F. Mix cake batter and pour into a round pan. Bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cake to cool completely, then carefully slice off the rounded top to create a flat surface.

Step 2: Create Jello Soak

Dissolve orange Jello in warm water. Once cake is cool, use a fork to create multiple small holes across the surface. Gently pour Jello mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.

Step 3: Prepare Creamy Ice Cream Base

In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and milk, blending until completely incorporated. Gently fold in Cool Whip to create a light, airy texture.

Step 4: Create Flavor Variations

Divide the ice cream mixture into two equal portions:
  • First portion: Mix with remaining orange Jello
  • Second portion: Blend with pure vanilla extract

Step 5: Layer The Cake

Using a springform pan, begin assembling layers:
  • Place Jello-soaked cake as the bottom layer
  • Add vanilla ice cream layer
  • Top with orange-flavored ice cream layer

Step 6: Freeze And Decorate

Place cake in freezer for 6-8 hours until completely set. Once frozen, cover top with Cool Whip. Garnish with orange-colored candies or fresh orange zest.

Tips For Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake

  • Master Room Temperature Technique: Bring cream cheese, milk, and other dairy to room temperature for smoother, lump-free mixing that creates silky-smooth ice cream layers.
  • Slice Evenly Like a Pro: Use a long serrated knife to carefully level cake layers and create uniform thickness, ensuring each slice looks picture-perfect with clean, defined layers.
  • Prevent Ice Crystallization: Cover cake tightly with plastic wrap directly touching the surface before freezing to prevent unwanted ice crystals and maintain creamy texture.
  • Zest Up Your Decoration: Sprinkle fresh orange zest over the final Cool Whip frosting for a bright, citrusy aroma and beautiful visual contrast that enhances the cake's flavor profile.

Variations For Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake

  • Citrus Lover's Remix: Replace orange JELLO with lemon or lime for a tangy alternative that keeps the creamy base intact.
  • Dairy-Free Dream: Swap cream cheese and milk with coconut cream and vegan cream cheese to create a plant-based version that's equally rich.
  • Low-Sugar Solution: Use sugar-free JELLO and replace sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a diabetic-friendly dessert.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular cake flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same tender cake texture while accommodating wheat sensitivities.

Pairing Suggestions For Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake

  • Pair Citrus-Infused Cocktails: Mix a light, refreshing orange vodka spritzer or an orange margarita to complement the cake's creamy, zesty profile.
  • Create Complementary Side Treats: Serve small orange shortbread cookies or candied orange peel alongside the cake to enhance the citrus experience.
  • Match with Creamy Beverages: Offer a chilled glass of cold brew coffee with orange essence or a smooth vanilla milkshake that echoes the cake's creamy texture.
  • Balance with Palate Cleansers: Include a small scoop of lemon sorbet or a sparkling citrus granita to cut through the richness and refresh the taste buds.

Storage Tips For Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and preserve texture.
  • Keep in sealed freezer-safe container for 2-3 weeks. Place wax paper between slices to prevent sticking.
  • Remove from freezer 15-20 minutes before serving. Let sit at room temperature to soften slightly for easier cutting and best flavor.
  • Do not reheat this ice cream cake. Serve chilled directly from refrigerator or freezer for optimal taste and texture.

FAQs About Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake

  • Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can substitute Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream. Just whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form and use it in the same quantity.

  • Is it necessary to use orange JELLO?

Orange JELLO adds intense orange flavor and color. If unavailable, you can use orange extract or orange juice concentrate to achieve similar results.

  • How do I prevent the cake layers from sticking to the pan?

Grease the springform pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and clean cake layers.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this cake up to 3 days in advance. Keep it covered and frozen until ready to serve, adding fresh decorations just before serving.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 43 mins
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Cool summer nostalgia meets delightful dessert in this Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake, blending childhood memories with elegant sweetness. Smooth orange-infused layers and creamy vanilla create a refreshing treat that will transport guests to sunny afternoons of pure bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup (177 milliliters) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 6 tablespoons (84 grams) salted butter, room temperature
  • 2 egg whites
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) sour cream
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) milk
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) hot water
  • 3 tablespoons orange JELLO powder

Ice Cream Layer Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) milk
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) Cool Whip
  • Remaining orange JELLO powder from a 3 ounces package, minus 3 tablespoons
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) hot water
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Decoration Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (227 grams) Cool Whip for icing
  • Orange candy slices for decoration
  • Orange gel icing color (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare cake layer, baking for 18-20 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
  2. Allow cake to cool completely, then carefully trim off any raised dome to create a flat surface.
  3. Using a fork, create multiple small holes across the entire cake surface to help JELLO absorption.
  4. Dissolve JELLO in hot water, then gently pour and spread evenly over the perforated cake, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  6. Gradually incorporate milk into the cream cheese mixture, stirring until well blended.
  7. Fold Cool Whip into the mixture, creating a light and airy base for the ice cream layers.
  8. Divide the prepared mixture into two equal portions.
  9. For the orange layer, blend remaining JELLO into one half of the mixture until fully integrated.
  10. Flavor the second half with vanilla extract, creating a complementary white layer.
  11. Select a springform pan and begin layering: first the prepared JELLO-infused cake as the base.
  12. Carefully spread the vanilla ice cream layer over the cake, ensuring an even distribution.
  13. Top with the orange-flavored ice cream layer, creating a vibrant and cohesive dessert.
  14. Freeze the assembled cake for 6-8 hours or overnight until completely set.
  15. Before serving, generously frost with additional Cool Whip.
  16. Garnish with orange-flavored candies for a decorative and tasty finish.

Notes

  • Bring all ingredients to room temperature for seamless blending and smoother texture.
  • Create perfectly even cake and ice cream layers by using a spatula or offset knife to smooth surfaces.
  • Sprinkle fresh orange zest over the final cake for bright, intense citrus aroma and visual appeal.
  • Substitute low-fat cream cheese and Cool Whip for a lighter version of this decadent dessert.
  • Prep Time: 25 mins
  • Cook Time: 18 mins
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star