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+ servings
Eggless Orange Cream Cake
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Orange Layer Cake

This Orange Layer Cake is a soft, eggless dessert bursting with real citrus flavor and childhood nostalgia. Inspired by orange creamsicles and homemade citrus bars, it features fluffy layers and a whipped cream cheese frosting that’s rich, light, and vegan-friendly.
Author: Saloni Mehta
Yield: 12 servings
Prep: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours

Ingredients

Orange Cake Ingredients

  • 450 ml Milk unsweetened almond milk or low fat milk
  • 1+½ tbsp Lemon Juice or apple cider vinegar
  • 270 g Cane Sugar or castor sugar
  • 90 ml Oil vegetable or sunflower
  • 2-3 tsp Amoretti Natural Orange Cream Artisan Flavor
  • 340 g All Purpose Flour
  • 2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1-2 Orange zest optional

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 450 g Cream Cheese*, room temperature
  • 200 g Powdered sugar*, sifted
  • 360 ml Whipping Cream, cold
  • 3 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • Pinch of Salt

Instructions

How to Make Orange Cake

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Prepare the pans by lightly greasing three 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans with oil. Line the bottoms with baking paper for easy release.
  • Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, lemon juice, oil, cane sugar and orange zest (if using) and mix until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  • Add dry ingredients: Sift in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are set and spring back when gently pressed.
  • Cool the cakes completely on a wire rack.
  • Trim and assemble: Once cooled, level the tops of the cakes if necessary. Layer with cream cheese frosting and use any trimmed pieces for decoration.

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Prepare your equipment. In a large mixing bowl, use either a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer.
  • Add the cold cream cheese and beat briefly until slightly softened.
  • Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar in two additions. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes smooth and light, about 4–5 minutes.
  • Incorporate remaining ingredients. Add the cold whipping cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  • Whip the frosting. Continue mixing until the frosting is fully combined, smooth, and holds soft peaks.

How to Assemble Your Orange Layer Cake

  • Add a small dollop of cream cheese frosting to the center of your cake stand or serving plate to help anchor the first layer.
  • Place the first cake layer onto the prepared stand.
  • Add 6 to 7 scoops of cream cheese frosting on top and spread it evenly using an offset spatula.
  • Gently place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer and repeat the process, adding 6 to 7 scoops of frosting and spreading it evenly.
  • Place the final cake layer on top, pressing down gently to align and secure the stack.
  • Apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to trap crumbs and create a smooth surface.
  • Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the crumb coat to set.
  • Once firm, apply an even layer second of frosting over the cake.
  • Fill a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle with the remaining frosting and pipe rosettes or borders around the top and sides of the cake.
  • Refrigerate the finished cake for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting and make it easier to slice.

Notes

  • Cup vs. Weighing Scale: U.S. customary cup measurements are approximate and can lead to inconsistencies. For best results, use a digital kitchen scale and measure ingredients in grams.
  • Prep Before You Start: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient baking process.
  • Spoon Accuracy: Use proper measuring spoons for teaspoon (tsp) and tablespoon (tbsp) quantities—avoid using everyday eating utensils, which are not accurate.
  • Sugar: Cane sugar may be substituted with granulated or castor sugar. To ensure the recipe remains vegan, choose organic or certified vegan sugar, as some sugars are processed using bone char.
  • Cream Cheese: Use any plain, full-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative depending on your preference or dietary needs.