Galentine's Orange Cream Cake

Name: Galentine's Orange Cream Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

I absolutely love making Galentine's Orange Cream Cake for my friends during our yearly get-together. The bright citrus flavor brings joy to every bite, while the creamy layer adds a delightful richness. I find that the combination of fresh oranges with smooth cream is irresistibly refreshing, making it the perfect sweet treat. As we gather around the table, this cake always steals the show, and it's incredibly satisfying to see everyone enjoy something I've created with love and thoughtfulness.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:33:27.760Z

When I first crafted this Galentine's Orange Cream Cake, I wanted to blend nostalgia with a modern twist. The zesty orange flavor is not just a palate pleaser; it evokes memories of sunny brunches with my family. The trick I found is to use freshly grated orange zest - it releases oils that amplify the flavor of the cake.

After a few trial runs, I perfected the cream layer, ensuring it was light yet indulgent. This cake is a testament to the joy of baking for friends; every slice is a reason to celebrate our bond and create lasting memories together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty orange flavor that lifts your spirits
Lush cream layer that adds a luxurious touch
Perfectly sized for sharing with friends

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of Galentine's Orange Cream Cake is undoubtedly the fresh orange juice and zest. Using fresh oranges enhances the cake's flavor and aroma, making the zest particularly impactful. When selecting oranges, opt for those that feel heavy for their size and have a bright, smooth skin. This indicates freshness and juiciness, which is essential for achieving that vibrant citrus flavor in the cake.

Butter plays a crucial role in creating the cake's moist texture. Ensure that your butter is softened at room temperature, which allows for better incorporation with sugar during the creaming process. This step is key, as a well-aerated butter-sugar mixture contributes to a light texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan alternative or oil, keeping in mind that it may slightly alter the cake's texture.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking times can vary based on your oven's calibration, so it's wise to start checking the cake a few minutes before the suggested 25-minute mark. Look for a golden-brown top with slightly pulled-away edges. Inserting a toothpick should yield moist crumbs, not wet batter, indicating the cakes are perfectly done. If they're overbaked, the cake can become dry, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.

While cooling the cakes, consider the importance of proper temperature. Allow the cakes to rest in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking and ensures they settle into a moist structure. If you plan to make the cake a day in advance, wrap the cooled layers in plastic wrap to lock in moisture before refrigerating.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful cake:

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Cream Layer

1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest

Ensure you have everything measured out for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake and assemble your Galentine's Orange Cream Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Prepare the Batter

In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the orange juice and zest. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry mixture until just incorporated.

Bake the Cakes

Distribute the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Make the Cream Layer

While the cakes are cooling, whip the cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fold in the orange zest.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a plate, spread half of the cream mixture on top, then add the second layer and cover with the remaining cream.

Serve and Enjoy

Chill the cake for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Slice and enjoy the vibrant flavors with your friends!

Don't be afraid to get creative with decorations!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a few drops of orange extract to the cream layer.

Cream Layer Variations

To add an extra twist to the cream layer, consider incorporating a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or orange-flavored syrup, for an adult version. This can elevate the flavor complexity and bring a unique twist to your cake that pairs brilliantly with the orange zest. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid, as the consistency of the cream should remain thick and spreadable.

For a non-dairy option, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, which brings a slightly tropical vibe to the cake. Ensure you chill the coconut cream beforehand, and use the thick part that rises to the top. This adaptation not only caters to dietary restrictions but also introduces a delightful flavor pairing to the orange base.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch, serve each slice of cake with a sprinkle of additional orange zest or a few candied orange slices on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor. Pair the cake with a light scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast that complements the cake's refreshing citrus profile.

If you're looking to scale up this cake for a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients and bake them in three round pans. This will allow you to create a multi-layer cake that will surely impress your guests. Just remember to adjust the baking time, checking for doneness starting at 25 minutes but be prepared for an additional few minutes due to the increased volume.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different citrus fruit?

Absolutely! Lemon or grapefruit zest can be delightful alternatives.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the layers a day in advance and assemble them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?

You could substitute with a light cream or even a dairy-free alternative, but the texture may differ.