Embrace the vibrant zest of citrus with this Orange Party Cake, featuring layers of light, airy cake paired with a luscious whipped orange frosting. This cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a cheerful centerpiece for any celebration, whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or just a bright way to bring friends and family together.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 4 whole eggs, room temperature
- 2 egg yolks, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, strained
- 3 cups cake flour, sifted
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into small pieces
- Zest from 2 medium oranges
For the Orange-Vanilla Whipped Cream Filling:
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 2 teaspoons unflavoured gelatin
- 2 cups cold whipping cream
- 1/4 cup icing/confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Zest from 1 medium orange
- Pinch of salt
For the Whipped Orange Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4-1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 cup whipping cream
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Butter and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. In one bowl, mix together the eggs, egg yolks, milk, and orange juice. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing slowly to combine. Add the cold butter pieces and orange zest, and mix until just incorporated.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops and bake for about 23 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a small saucepan, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let stand until absorbed. Heat gently until gelatin dissolves. In a mixing bowl, whip the cream with confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the gelatin mixture to the cream, whipping until stiff peaks form. Chill until ready to use.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, whipping cream, and orange juice, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of the orange-vanilla whipped cream filling over the top. Add the second layer and repeat. Top with the third cake layer. Use the whipped orange frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake, employing a swirling technique to create a soft, pastel effect.
Baking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin.
- Even Layers: Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter among the pans evenly, ensuring each layer of the cake cooks uniformly.
- Colorful Presentation: Consider using a small amount of gel food coloring in the frosting if you desire a more vivid orange hue.
This Orange Party Cake with Whipped Orange Frosting offers a perfect balance of citrusy sweetness and creamy indulgence, making it ideal for any festive occasion. The bright flavors and cheerful presentation are sure to bring smiles and make your celebration even more special. Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert and the joy it brings to your table!