If you’re anything like me, a bright and zesty dessert is the perfect way to brighten your day, and that’s exactly why this Orange Juice Cake Recipe holds such a special place in my heart. It’s a delightful, moist Bundt cake bursting with fresh citrus flavor, where every bite melts with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy thanks to the fresh orange juice and a luscious glaze. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just craving a sweet treat that doesn’t feel heavy, this recipe is incredibly simple yet impressive, making it a true staple for any dessert lover.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but play a crucial role in delivering the perfect taste, texture, and that irresistible orange color. Each one brings something special to the party, from the fluffy cake base to the zingy glaze that finishes it off beautifully.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): Provides the fluffy and tender cake foundation, making baking easier without sacrificing flavor.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz): Adds moisture and richness so the cake stays soft and delicious day after day.
- Eggs (4 large): Bind the ingredients together, contributing to the cake’s structure and fluffiness.
- Orange juice (¾ cup): The star ingredient that infuses bright citrus flavor and moistness into every crumb.
- Vegetable oil (½ cup): Keeps the cake tender and rich without overpowering the citrus notes.
- Orange zest (1 tbsp): Delivers that extra pop of fresh orange aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall citrus experience.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup) for glaze: Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a smooth, shiny finish.
- Orange juice (¼ cup) for glaze: Creates a bright, tangy glaze that perfectly coats the cake.
- Orange zest (1 tsp) for glaze: Adds a burst of fresh citrus flair to the finishing touch.
How to Make Orange Juice Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly. The greasing step is key—this ensures your cake releases perfectly from the pan, showcasing its gorgeous shape and making serving a breeze.
Step 2: Mixing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, orange juice, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes with an electric mixer until the batter is completely smooth and well combined. This is where the magic starts—those fresh citrus tones combine with a moist, rich batter that’s begging to be baked.
Step 3: Baking the Cake
Pour your beautiful batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top gently. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted right in the center comes out clean. This baking step is crucial to achieve that perfect rise and retain moistness inside.
Step 4: Making the Glaze
While your cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until the glaze is silky smooth. This glaze is what takes the cake from delicious to truly unforgettable, soaking in that unmistakable citrus sweetness as it cools.
Step 5: Glazing and Cooling
Once the cake has baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto your serving plate. While the cake is still warm, slowly spoon the orange glaze over the top, allowing it to soak in beautifully. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving so the glaze can set just right.
How to Serve Orange Juice Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra charm, try sprinkling some fresh orange zest or even candied orange peel over the top of the cake. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also give it an elegant touch. These simple garnishes enhance the cake’s vibrant look and tie the flavors together wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Orange Juice Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream for a luscious contrast. If you prefer something refreshing, serve it alongside a fresh berry salad or a citrus fruit platter to keep everything bright and light.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the cake on a rustic wooden board with fresh orange slices and sprigs of mint. For a fun twist, cut the cake into mini Bundt cakes or cupcakes and drizzle the glaze individually. Either way, everyone will be enchanted by its sunny, inviting look and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake actually tastes better the next day as the orange flavors deepen and settle into the crumb. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or cover tightly and refrigerate if you want it to last a bit longer.
Freezing
If you want to make this Orange Juice Cake Recipe well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled, unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before glazing and serving.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently by warming them in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or until just warm. This brings back the fresh-baked feel without drying it out. The glaze will soften and become even more delectable when warmed slightly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of the store-bought kind?
Absolutely! Fresh-squeezed orange juice is actually preferred for this Orange Juice Cake Recipe because it delivers the brightest, freshest citrus flavor that really makes the cake pop.
What type of cake mix works best for this recipe?
A yellow cake mix is ideal here since it provides a neutral but buttery-flavored base that complements the orange juice perfectly without overwhelming the delicate citrus notes.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can try substituting a gluten-free yellow cake mix, but results might vary. Make sure your other ingredients, like the pudding mix, are also gluten-free to maintain the best texture and flavor.
How should I store the glazed cake if I’m not serving it immediately?
Keep it covered at room temperature if serving within a day or two. For longer storage, refrigerate it covered to prevent the glaze from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
Is it possible to double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! You can double the recipe and bake it in two Bundt pans or a larger pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly—just keep an eye on it with the toothpick test to avoid overbaking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Orange Juice Cake Recipe enough—it’s a fantastic way to bring a little sunshine into your dessert routine. It’s simple, flavorful, and versatile, perfect for everything from casual family dinners to special occasions. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your treasured favorites too!
Print
Orange Juice Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Juice Cake is a moist and flavorful Bundt cake that combines a yellow cake mix and instant vanilla pudding with fresh orange juice and zest for a bright citrus twist. Topped with a smooth orange glaze, it’s a perfect easy-to-make dessert that tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup orange juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp orange zest
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Mix Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, orange juice, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture for 2–3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
- Cool and Glaze: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, invert it onto a serving plate. While the cake is still warm, gradually spoon the glaze over the top to allow it to soak in evenly.
- Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. For best flavor, let the cake rest overnight as the citrus notes deepen.
Notes
- This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop.
- For the brightest citrus flavor, use fresh-squeezed orange juice whenever possible.
- Ensure the Bundt pan is well greased to prevent sticking.
- The glaze should be poured slowly to allow it to soak into the cake rather than just sitting on top.
