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Moist Orange Layer Cake

Yummy Eats Daily
This moist orange layer cake bursts with sunny citrus flavor from real orange juice, zest, and a hint of vanilla. Layered with creamy orange buttercream, it’s an easy boxed cake upgrade that’s perfect for birthdays, spring gatherings, or whenever you crave a sweet orange twist.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cool & Frost Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 12 slices
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 1 box vanilla cake mix
  • 1 box 3 oz orange gelatin mix
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp orange zest

For the Frosting:

  • 1 cup butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp orange extract optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
  • Combine cake mix and gelatin mix in a bowl.
  • Add orange juice, oil, eggs, vanilla, and zest. Beat until smooth.
  • Divide batter evenly and bake for 25–30 minutes.
  • Cool 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
  • Beat butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar.
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/moist-orange-layer-cake/

Notes

  • Boost Flavor: For extra citrus punch, add 1–2 teaspoons of fresh orange juice to the frosting.
  • Make Ahead: Cake layers can be baked a day ahead and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
  • Decorating Tip: Try piping swirls or adding candied orange peel for a bakery-style look.
  • Box Mix Hack: The gelatin adds intense orange flavor and moisture to the boxed mix—no one will guess it’s not from scratch!