Orange Cake with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This Orange Cake with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s bursting with citrusy flavor. The moist and tender cake is infused with fresh orange zest and juice, while the creamy frosting adds a touch of sweetness and coconut goodness. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Orange Cake with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting:

For the Orange Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups, provides the structure of the cake.
• Baking Powder: 1 ½ teaspoons, helps the cake rise.
• Baking Soda: ¾ teaspoon, helps the cake rise and adds tenderness.
• Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavors.
• Whole Milk: 1 ⅓ cups, adds moisture.
• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: ¼ cup, adds a citrusy flavor.
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: ¼ cup, adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened, adds richness and flavor.
• Sugar: 2 cups, adds sweetness and moisture.
• Freshly Grated Orange Zest: ¼ cup, adds a concentrated orange flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon, enhances the overall flavor.
• Large Eggs: 4, binds the ingredients and adds richness.

For the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened, provides a creamy and tangy base.
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened, adds richness and creaminess.
• Powdered Sugar: 2 cups, sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, enhances the flavor.
• Coconut Extract: ¼ teaspoon, optional, intensifies the coconut flavor.
• Shredded Sweetened Coconut: 1 cup, adds texture and coconut flavor.

How to Make Orange Cake with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick baking spray.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a measuring cup, whisk together the milk, lemon juice, and orange juice.
4. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
5. Beat in the orange zest.
6. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
7. Beat in the vanilla extract.
8. With the mixer on low speed, mix in half of the flour mixture, then the milk mixture, and finally the remaining flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
2. Beat in the powdered sugar until combined.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract and coconut extract (if using).

Step 4: Frost and Decorate the Cake

1. Frost the cooled cake with the coconut cream cheese frosting.
2. Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the frosting.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set.
2. Serve chilled.

How to Serve

• Dessert: Serve this cake as a refreshing dessert after a meal.
• Afternoon Tea: It’s a delightful addition to afternoon tea or coffee.
• Special Occasions: This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead

• The cake can be baked a day in advance and stored, wrapped well, at room temperature.
• The frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of frosting?

• Yes, you can use other frostings, such as vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting without coconut.

Can I use a different type of milk?

• Yes, you can substitute whole milk with other types of milk, such as 2% or skim milk.

Can I add other flavors to the cake?

• Yes, you can add other citrus zests, such as lemon or lime, or extracts like almond or vanilla.

Can I make this cake in a different pan?

• Yes, you can bake the batter in two 9-inch round cake pans for a layer cake. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Print