If you’re dreaming of a dessert that feels like a sunny celebration in every bite, this Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine tender, fluffy cake layers bursting with fresh orange zest and juice, perfectly complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s light yet rich. This cake is not only beautifully bright and flavorful, but it also holds the ideal moist crumb that keeps you coming back for slice after slice. Trust me, once you try this Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe, it’s going to be your go-to recipe for birthdays, brunches, or any time you want to feel just a little bit fancy in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients can transform into such a show-stopping cake. Each item is essential, contributing to the tender texture, sweet tang, or that irresistible orange flavor that defines this cake.
- All-purpose or cake flour (2 ½ cups / 300g): The base that gives the cake structure while keeping it tender.
- Baking powder (2 tsp): Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
- Baking soda (½ tsp): Works with the buttermilk to lighten the crumb.
- Fine sea salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup / 226g): Adds richness and contributes to moistness.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups / 400g): Sweetens while aiding in a tender crumb.
- Large eggs, room temperature (4): Bind everything together and add structure.
- Buttermilk, room temperature (1 cup / 240ml): Adds tang and moisture for softness.
- Fresh orange zest (2 tbsp): Delivers fragrant citrus oils that brighten the cake.
- Fresh orange juice (¼ cup / 60ml): Intensifies the fresh orange flavor and adds moisture.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Provides depth and balances citrus notes.
- Full-fat cream cheese, softened (12 oz / 340g): The heart of the creamy frosting.
- Unsalted butter, softened (¾ cup / 170g – for frosting): Makes the frosting silky and rich.
- Powdered sugar, sifted (4 cups / 480g): Sweetens and adds structure to the frosting.
- Fresh orange zest for frosting (1 tbsp): Adds fresh citrus bursts within the frosting.
- Fresh orange juice for frosting (2-3 tbsp): Helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp) for frosting: Rounds out the frosting’s flavor.
- Pinch of fine sea salt for frosting: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- Optional simple syrup ingredients: Fresh orange juice (¼ cup / 60ml) and granulated sugar (¼ cup / 50g), for extra moist cake layers.
How to Make Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Pans & Preheat Oven
Let’s get started by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them — then line the bottoms with parchment paper. This prep ensures your cakes will release effortlessly with perfectly smooth bottoms.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients well now guarantees an even rise and consistent texture throughout your layers.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is key to incorporating air for a tender crumb and adds sweetness that melts in the mouth.
Step 4: Add Eggs Gradually
Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down the bowl as you go. This careful technique helps the batter stay smooth and prevents curdling, ensuring a luscious texture.
Step 5: Prepare Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the buttermilk, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. These fresh citrus components are the soul of the cake, giving it that irresistible vibrant flavor.
Step 6: Alternate Dry & Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the wet ingredients in two parts. Mix on low speed just until combined at each addition — don’t overmix or the cake could turn dense.
Step 7: Bake Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Pop them into the oven to bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the centers comes out clean. Your kitchen will start smelling like heaven right about now.
Step 8: Cool Cake Layers
Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 to 15 minutes. Then invert them onto wire racks, peel off the parchment, and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Cool layers are crucial for flawless frosting adhesion.
Step 9: Optional Orange Simple Syrup
For an extra moist and intensely orange cake, prepare a simple syrup by heating orange juice and sugar until dissolved, then let it cool. Lightly brushing each cake layer with this syrup before frosting locks in moisture and deepens the citrus flavor.
Step 10: Prepare Frosting: Beat Cream Cheese & Butter
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This creates the silky base that makes our frosting irresistibly luscious.
Step 11: Add Powdered Sugar to Frosting
Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then beat at medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes. This will make your frosting light and fluffy, perfect for spreading between layers and over the cake.
Step 12: Incorporate Orange & Vanilla into Frosting
Mix in the orange zest, 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the amount of orange juice for your desired frosting consistency and brightness of flavor.
Step 13: Final Frosting Whip
Give your frosting a final whip at medium-high speed for about 30 seconds to make it extra light and luscious, ideal for a beautiful finish on the cake.
Step 14: Level Cakes for Assembly
Make sure your cake layers are completely cool. Use a serrated knife to gently level the tops if needed, so the layers stack evenly without tipping or sliding.
Step 15: Stack & Frost First Layers
Place the first cake layer on your serving platter, then spread 1 to 1 and a half cups of the orange cream cheese frosting evenly on top. Repeat with the second layer, pressing gently to adhere but not squishing out the frosting.
Step 16: Add Final Layer
Set the third and last layer on top carefully, pressing slightly to secure the stack without compressing the delicate crumb.
Step 17: Apply Crumb Coat
Apply a thin layer of frosting all over the cake to seal in crumbs, then chill it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This crumb coat creates a smooth canvas for the final layer of frosting.
Step 18: Final Frosting Layer
Once chilled, remove the cake and apply the remaining frosting to the top and sides. Use an offset spatula to smooth or decorate the cake however you like, whether rustic swirls or sleek finishes.
Step 19: Decorate (Optional)
For that extra wow factor, garnish your cake with additional fresh orange zest, candied orange slices, fresh orange segments, or a few mint leaves. This adds color and a fresh aroma that’s as inviting as the cake tastes.
Step 20: Chill Before Serving
Finally, chill the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes to let the frosting set for clean slices and optimal flavor harmony.
How to Serve Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To bring out the cake’s fresh citrus personality, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest or candied orange slices creates a striking visual and flavor accent. Adding a few mint leaves not only contrasts the orange color but adds a refreshing note that brightens each bite.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a light citrus-infused sparkling water to balance its richness. For more indulgence, fresh berries or a dollop of vanilla bean whipped cream are fantastic side companions enhancing the luscious softness of the Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this cake as a centerpiece on a delicate cake stand to showcase its layers. Consider cutting into petite slices for a brunch buffet or layering the frosting with edible flowers for a garden party vibe. You can even transform leftovers into elegant cake trifle cups, layering with fresh fruit and cream cheese frosting for a fresh twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, this cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the freshness of the cream cheese frosting and maintains moisture in the layers, ready to enjoy anytime without drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. For a fully assembled cake, freeze after applying the crumb coat and wrap securely; frost after thawing for the freshest texture and appearance.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature—avoid reheating since the frosting may separate. If you prefer softer cake, let chilled slices come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to appreciate the Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe in its full glory.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While regular milk will work, buttermilk adds a slight tang and acidity that tenderizes the cake crumb and works with baking soda for better rise. For a substitute, you can mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit 5 minutes.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Brushing the cake layers with the optional orange simple syrup after baking locks in moisture beautifully. Also, avoid overbaking and store the cake properly wrapped or covered to maintain its signature moistness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure to check the blend’s instructions for any modifications in wet ingredients or baking times.
What’s the best way to get the layers even?
Using a serrated knife or cake leveler to trim any domed tops after cooling will ensure each layer stacks evenly without wobbling. Leveling also gives a professional look to your Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe.
Can I prepare this cake a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making the cake a day ahead and chilling it allows the flavors to meld and the frosting to set perfectly. Just cover and refrigerate, then bring to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a cake that feels as joyous and bright as the Moist Orange Layer Cake Recipe. It’s a blend of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way to create a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with friends and family — I promise it will become a staple you’ll return to time and time again for all your special moments.
