When it comes to nostalgic desserts that truly brighten a table, Orange Jello Cake has to be one of my all-time favorites. Imagine a soft, fluffy cake base soaked with tangy orange gelatin, then topped with a billowy layer of creamy, citrus-kissed topping – it’s like sunshine served on a plate! This vibrant dessert brings together lively citrus flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible for family gatherings, potlucks, or just because you want a taste of summer any day of the year. With easy steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how much delight one humble cake can deliver.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great Orange Jello Cake starts with a few pantry staples and a splash of creativity. These simple ingredients come together to create layers of bright flavor, soft texture, and that signature orange hue you can’t resist.
- Cake Mix: Use a 15.25-ounce box of white or yellow cake mix – this gives you a soft, fluffy base and takes all the guesswork out of baking from scratch.
- Eggs, Oil, and Water: Follow the directions on your cake mix box; these essentials bring moisture and structure to your cake.
- Orange Jello Gelatin: The star ingredient! One 3-ounce box infuses every bite with zesty citrus flavor and that iconic bright color.
- Boiling Water: One cup is needed to dissolve your Jello completely for maximum flavor infusion.
- Cold Water: Half a cup helps cool down your Jello mixture, so it’s ready to soak beautifully into your cake.
- Whipped Topping: An 8-ounce container (thawed) brings airy sweetness and a creamy finish – the perfect crown for this summery cake.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: One 3.4-ounce box thickens and flavors the whipped topping for a luscious, custardy layer.
- Cold Milk: One cup brings together your pudding mix and whipped topping to create a dreamy, spreadable frosting.
- Orange Zest (optional): If you want an extra burst of citrus and a pretty pop of color, sprinkle in a teaspoon of zest – it’s like confetti for your cake!
How to Make Orange Jello Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake comes out smoothly. Prepare the cake mix according to the box instructions, combining the eggs, oil, and water as called for. Pour the batter into your baking dish and bake as directed – usually about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top springs back lightly with a gentle touch. Let the baked cake cool on a rack for about 15 minutes; this helps it firm up a bit and gets it ready for the next magical step!
Step 2: Poke and Soak
Once the cake has cooled slightly (but is still warm), grab a fork or wooden skewer and poke holes all over the surface. Don’t be shy – you want plenty of little tunnels so the Jello can seep all the way through. In a medium bowl, dissolve the orange Jello powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until it’s completely melted. Add the cold water, then slowly pour the Jello mixture evenly over the entire cake, making sure it soaks into the poked holes for that signature pop of color and flavor.
Step 3: Chill for the Best Texture
Pop your cake into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least two hours. This step allows the Jello to set up and soak all the way through, turning your cake into a moist, vibrant masterpiece. If you have the time, letting it sit a little longer (even overnight) will only intensify the flavor!
Step 4: Make the Fluffy Pudding Topping
While the cake chills, it’s time to whip up the irresistible creamy topping. In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about two minutes, until thick and smooth. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, plus orange zest if you like a little extra zing. This combination creates a dreamy, cloud-like layer that perfectly complements your citrusy cake base.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
Spread that lush pudding mixture evenly over your completely chilled cake, smoothing it right to the edges. Keep the finished Orange Jello Cake refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Every slice will reveal gorgeous layers and a burst of flavor in every bite!
How to Serve Orange Jello Cake
Garnishes
Give your Orange Jello Cake a finishing touch by garnishing with a scatter of fresh orange zest or a few canned mandarin orange slices. These simple accents add color and a tantalizing fresh citrus fragrance that makes the cake pop with every serving. Even a few sprigs of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar can take the presentation from homey to showstopper in seconds.
Side Dishes
Because this cake is light and fruity, it pairs beautifully alongside other simple summer treats. Try serving it with a fresh berry salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a glass of sweet iced tea for a picnic-style dessert plate. The gentle tang of the cake complements creamy sides or even a dollop of yogurt – trust me, it’s a hit at every backyard barbecue.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling inspired, cut Orange Jello Cake into fun individual squares and serve in cupcake liners for a party-ready treat. For an elegant twist, try layering cake cubes, pudding topping, and fresh fruit in parfait glasses to create dazzling Orange Jello Cake trifles. Or simply pile generous slices on a bright platter, letting those sunny layers steal the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Orange Jello Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The cake stays moist and delicious, and the flavors often improve as the Jello and topping meld together.
Freezing
While the cake base can be frozen on its own (before adding the Jello and topping), the assembled Orange Jello Cake isn’t ideal for freezing, as the topping loses its creamy texture and the gelatin might separate. If you must freeze, wrap the plain cake layer well, thaw overnight, then proceed with the Jello soak and topping fresh.
Reheating
This dessert is always best served cold or lightly chilled straight from the fridge! If you prefer a less chilled bite, let a slice sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying. No actual reheating is needed, making it a fuss-free treat for any occasion.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
Absolutely! While the classic recipe is all about that punchy citrus flavor, you can swap in lemon, lime, or even strawberry Jello for a fun twist. Each flavor gives the cake a unique hue and taste, but Orange Jello Cake really does shine brightest with its signature zesty glow.
What type Dessert
Either white or yellow cake mix works wonderfully for Orange Jello Cake. White gives you a vivid, contrasty look with the orange, while yellow blends into a slightly richer, warmer base. If you want to cut back on sweetness, opt for a lower-sugar mix.
Can I make Orange Jello Cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can prepare this dessert to suit dairy-free diets. Use a non-dairy whipped topping and choose a plant-based milk for preparing the pudding. Just double-check your pudding mix is dairy-free as well, and you’ll have a winning treat everyone can enjoy.
How do I keep the cake from getting soggy?
To prevent an overly soggy Orange Jello Cake, be mindful not to over-pour the Jello mixture. Follow the amounts as directed, and make sure you chill the cake sufficiently to allow the gelatin to set, giving you that perfect, just-moist texture throughout.
Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?
You bet! Orange Jello Cake actually improves in flavor if made a day ahead. Just keep it covered and chilled until ready to frost and serve. If possible, add any garnishes right before serving to keep things looking fresh and inviting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a burst of citrusy sunshine to any table, don’t wait another day to bake up this Orange Jello Cake! It’s so easy, so fun, and pure happiness in every bite. Treat yourself, share with friends, and let those bright layers make everyone smile.
Print
Orange Jello Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing citrus flavors of this Orange Jello Cake. A moist poke cake infused with orange Jello, topped with a creamy pudding mixture, and finished with a hint of orange zest.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)
For the Jello Layer:
- 1 box (3 ounces) orange Jello gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare and bake the cake according to the package instructions. Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes.
- Poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork or skewer.
- Dissolve the orange Jello in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in 1/2 cup cold water. Pour the Jello mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Fold in the whipped topping and orange zest if using.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cake. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
- For an extra citrus kick, garnish with mandarin orange slices or additional orange zest.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
