This orange dreamsicle poke cake is a moist vanilla cake soaked with orange gelatin, then topped with a fluffy orange-vanilla cream frosting. It’s an easy, bright sheet cake that tastes exactly like the classic frozen treat but feeds a crowd.

The secret

Poking holes while the cake is still warm lets the orange gelatin soak deep into every bite, creating vibrant orange streaks inside. Chill time is key—it helps the cake set and makes it extra refreshing.

What you need

Cake:

1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus eggs, oil, water per box) OR a homemade 9×13 vanilla cake recipe
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)

Filling (Soak):

1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin (like Jell-O)
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water

Topping:

1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz whipped topping (thawed), divided
Optional garnish: orange slices, mandarin oranges, or orange zest

Make it

Bake the cake in a 9×13-inch pan according to package directions.
While the cake is baking, dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water; stir in cold water and set aside.
Poke holes all over the warm baked cake using a wooden spoon handle (space them about 1 inch apart).
Pour the orange liquid evenly over the cake, aiming for the holes.
Let cake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the gelatin sets slightly.
Make topping: Whisk instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract until thickened (about 2 minutes). Fold in most of the whipped topping (save a little for garnish if you like, or use all of it for a thicker layer).
Spread the creamy pudding mixture over the chilled cake.
Chill again for at least 2–3 hours before slicing (overnight is great). Garnish with orange slices right before serving.

Tasty twists

Cream cheese frosting: Beat 8 oz cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar, then fold in whipped topping for a richer, cheesecake-style frosting.
Citrus boost: Add 1 tsp orange zest to the cake batter and another 1 tsp to the topping.
Serve with: Add a side of Meyer Lemon Bars for a full citrus dessert table.

Easy Orange Dreamsicle Poke Cake (Crowd-Pleaser Dessert)

Author: danyrecipes
Total Time: 230
Yield: 12-15 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Easy orange dreamsicle poke cake featuring moist vanilla cake soaked with orange gelatin and topped with a creamy vanilla-orange pudding frosting. A refreshing, crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes just like the classic creamsicle.