There’s nothing quite like the first time you discover a recipe that embraces your senses, wrapping you in warmth like a favorite blanket. I can still remember my first taste of Moist Orange Layer Cake, crafted in the cozy corners of my grandmother’s kitchen. The fragrance of citrus wafted through the air as I watched her whisk the batter with an easy grace, brightening even the rainiest of days. That delightful first bite, where the cake was fluffy and moist, and the orange flavor danced on my tongue, felt like a little slice of sunshine. She taught me that baking a cake isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories—and this lively layer cake has become my go-to for everything from birthday celebrations to quiet Sunday afternoons. Trust me, once you sink your fork into this cake, you’ll see why I adore it and want to share it with everyone you know!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Using a boxed cake mix, this recipe comes together in no time.
• Bright Flavor: Bursting with orange goodness, it’s perfect for citrus lovers.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the added juice and zest; each slice feels like a hug.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a birthday or a casual gathering, everyone will beg for seconds!
• Versatile: Easy to adapt with different decorations and flavors that suit any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 box orange cake mix: The backbone of simplicity! This gives you a deeply flavorful base quickly without fuss.
• 1 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal, but any kind will do. It pumps up the citrus flavor and keeps the cake moist.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: This adds a lovely brightness—don’t skip it! Zest from a fresh orange will bring out even more vibrant flavors.
• 3 large eggs: These provide structure and richness. Room temperature eggs work best, so take them out ahead of time!
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake irresistibly moist. Can substitute with melted coconut oil for a fragrant twist!
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A little warmth to balance the bright flavors. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for creamy buttercream that everyone will love—softened butter is key here!
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetness and fluff for the buttercream, making every layer a cloud of joy.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjust for consistency in your frosting. Whole milk or a plant-based version—whatever you prefer!
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (for buttercream): A harmonious touch—this echo of orange in the frosting is delightful.
• Sprinkles or orange slices (for decoration, optional): Add a pop of color and fun. Let your creativity shine!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it warms, imagine the sweet-smelling aroma that will soon fill your kitchen!

2. Prepare the cake pans

Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. This helps the cakes slide right out, letting you avoid any crumbly frustrations later.

3. Mix the batter

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, orange juice, orange zest, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well integrated. The bright color and delightful citrus scent will whisk you away!

4. Divide the batter

Pour the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. You might taste a spoonful (just a tiny one!) to revel in that zesty goodness—don’t worry, I won’t tell!

5. Bake the cakes

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen smells like a sunny orchard.

6. Cool the cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This waiting period is excruciating, but it’s well worth it!

7. Make the buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until combined. The texture will look fluffy and inviting!

8. Add milk and zest

Pour in the milk and add the orange zest, continuing to beat until the buttercream is light and fluffy. The scent will have you swooning!

9. Assemble the cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of buttercream on top, then place the second layer and repeat. Add the third layer on top!

10. Frost and decorate

Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with your luscious buttercream. Decorate with sprinkles or orange slices if you’re feeling fancy!

11. Slice and enjoy!

Cut into slices, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with joy as they savor every bite of your moist orange layer cake!

Pro Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Make It Your Own: Experiment with different citrus zests or extracts for unique flavors—lime, lemon, or even grapefruit can bring delightful twists!
• Frosting Technique: Use a spatula or a cake scraper to achieve a smooth surface for a beautiful finish.
• Chill Your Cake: If you’re dealing with a warm kitchen, refrigerate your cake after frosting to set everything in place.

Flavor Variations

• Coconut Twist: Substitute half the orange juice with coconut milk or add shredded coconut to the cake batter for a tropical hint.
• Berry Burst: Layer fresh berries between the cake slices for a refreshing surprise!
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter for a lovely warm flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Moist Orange Layer Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the experience. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or citrus-infused iced tea complements these zesty flavors beautifully. For a stunning presentation, serve slices on colorful plates, adorned with a sprinkle of zest and a garnish of mint.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep and cool the layers a day in advance! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge until you’re ready to frost. The cake will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!

Leftovers

If there happen to be any leftovers (which is a big if!), try to use them in a trifle. Layer crumbled cake with yogurt and fruit, creating a delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is tasty!

Freezing

Yes! You can freeze the cake layers. Wrap each cooled layer tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for the best protection. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.

Reheating

While this cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, you can warm up a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy treat, or pop it in a low oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake mix instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! Just make sure the ingredients equal one box mix in weight for a similar texture.

Can I replace orange juice with another juice?
Certainly! Lemon or even pineapple juice can add delightful flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary.

What’s the best way to store the frosted cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a few days. If it’s longer, pop it in the fridge.

Can I make the buttercream ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the buttercream in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week! Just re-whip it before using.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Moist Orange Layer Cake is like wrapping your kitchen in a warm hug! Remember, dear friends, every cake tells a story, and every bite carries a sprinkle of love. So roll up those sleeves, embrace the joyful messiness of baking, and make some mouthwatering memories. I can’t wait to hear how your cake turns out! Happy baking from my heart to yours!

Enjoy the zest and joy of baking!