Orange Crush Cake is a nostalgic soda cake that brings back sweet memories of childhood with its bright citrus flavor and effortless preparation. This classic dessert combines just three simple ingredients: white cake mix, Orange Crush soda, and whipped cream to create a moist, fluffy cake that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re a time‑strapped baker seeking a no‑hassle dessert or simply longing for a nostalgic, old‑school treat, this Orange Crush Cake packs bold flavor with hardly any work. In just under an hour from start to finish, you can have a show‑stopping dessert your whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Crush Cake
There are so many reasons to love this Orange Crush Cake. First, it requires only three main ingredients, meaning there is no complicated measuring, mixing, or specialty pantry items. The orange soda replaces eggs, oil, and water, not only simplifying the process but also infusing each bite with a bright citrus pop. The Cool Whip adds a creamy topping that balances the sweet orange flavor with a light, fluffy texture, making every slice feel indulgent.
This cake is also incredibly versatile. Serve it at backyard barbecues, summer picnics, potlucks, or just for a spontaneous dessert when guests arrive. Add optional cherries or orange zest for garnish and your guests will think you spent hours baking. If you’re new to soda cakes, this recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s reliable, approachable, and always turns out tender and flavorful.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Orange Crush Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 2 cups Orange Crush soda
- 1 16 oz container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- Optional: Maraschino cherries with juice drained (for garnish)
That’s it! Three simple ingredients (plus cherries if you want a playful finishing touch). No eggs, oil, or extra liquids make this recipe incredibly beginner-friendly.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Make Orange Crush Cake
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8×8 baking dish with baking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Batter
Empty the white cake mix into a large mixing bowl. Gradually pour in the Orange Crush soda. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk to combine the mix and soda until smooth and fully incorporated. The batter will be slightly bubbly from the soda but should be evenly blended.
3. Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly in your greased baking dish and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, then check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
4. Cool Completely
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Cooling the cake thoroughly ensures the whipped cream topping won’t melt when applied.
5. Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface with a spatula. Smooth it carefully so the topping creates a soft, fluffy layer across the cake.
6. Chill Before Serving
Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This helps the whipped topping firm up and meld with the cake, making it easier to slice and serve.
7. Add Cherries and Serve
Slice the cake into squares and place a Maraschino cherry on top of each slice for a fun garnish. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Don’t rush cooling: It’s essential to let the cake cool completely before frosting. Applying whipped topping to a warm cake will cause it to melt and slide off.
- Garnish creatively: If you love extra citrus flavor, sprinkle some fresh orange zest over the whipped topping.
- Use quality soda: A full‑flavored Orange Crush soda enriches the cake’s orange profile; diet or flat soda may not produce the same results.
- Room temperature whipped topping: Let your whipped topping sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes if it’s too firm straight from the freezer; it will spread more easily.
- Baking dish options: You can also use a 9×13 baking pan; just adjust baking time slightly and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Substitutions And Variations
This recipe is flexible! Try these fun twists:
- Flavor variations: Swap Orange Crush for lemon‑lime soda or grape soda to make Lemon Lime or Grape Crush Soda Cake.
- Tropical twist: Add a can of crushed pineapple (drained) to the batter for a pineapple soda cake.
- Whipped frosting alternative: If you prefer traditional frosting, use a light cream cheese frosting instead of cool whip for tangy richness.
- Citrus zest enhancement: Stir a teaspoon of orange zest into the cake batter for extra citrus punch.
- Vegan option: Choose a vegan cake mix and vegan whipped topping to adapt this recipe for plant‑based diets.
These variations make it easy to tailor the cake to the occasion or your mood.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage ensures your Orange Crush Cake stays fresh and delicious:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The whipped topping and citrus flavor mean refrigeration is key.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, first freeze uncovered for an hour to firm up the whipped topping. Then wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Individual servings: For easy grab‑and‑go treats, cut the cake into squares and store each piece in a small airtight container.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 9 servings):
- Calories: 243
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 399mg
- Fiber: 1g
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Crush Cake pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh berries for added color and natural sweetness
- Vanilla ice cream to complement the citrus flavor
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream and orange segments on the side
- Mint leaves for a refreshing garnish
- Iced tea or lemonade for a perfectly themed summer dessert spread
Serve this cake as a finale to a backyard barbecue, at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a bright, cheerful treat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Crush Cake
Can I use another type of soda in this cake?
Yes! While Orange Crush gives this cake its classic citrus profile, you can experiment with other sodas. Lemon‑lime, grape, or even root beer can be fun alternatives that change the flavor landscape while keeping the texture tender.
Do I need to add eggs or oil?
No. The soda replaces eggs and oil in this recipe, making it simpler and lighter. This is one reason soda cakes have become a beloved quick dessert.
Why isn’t my cake rising well?
If your cake doesn’t rise as much as expected, make sure your cake mix is fresh and your oven is fully preheated. Also, avoid overmixing; once soda is added, stir just until combined.
Can I make this in a bundt pan?
Absolutely! Baking in a bundt pan adds a decorative shape. Just increase the baking time and check with a toothpick for doneness.
What if I don’t want to use whipped topping?
You can frost the cooled cake with cream cheese frosting or buttercream if preferred. Both alternatives pair nicely with the citrus flavor and add richness.
These tips should help you bake a perfect cake every time.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for exploring this Orange Crush Cake recipe with me! This sweet, nostalgic dessert has become a favorite in my kitchen because it is so easy to make and full of bright citrus flavor that feels like sunshine on a plate. With just three main ingredients and minimal prep time, you can delight your family and friends with a cake that tastes like childhood memories. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because you love a good dessert, I hope this recipe brings a smile to your table. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!
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Orange Crush Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Orange Crush Cake is a quick and easy 3-ingredient dessert packed with bright citrus flavor. Made with white cake mix, Orange Crush soda, and whipped topping, this fun and nostalgic cake is perfect for parties, potlucks, or weeknight treats. Chill, slice, and serve with a cherry on top. Try it now and bring a taste of childhood to your table!
Ingredients
1 box white cake mix
2 cups Orange Crush soda
1 container (16 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar)
Optional: Maraschino cherries, drained
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8×8 baking dish with baking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Batter
Empty the white cake mix into a large mixing bowl. Gradually pour in the Orange Crush soda. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk to combine the mix and soda until smooth and fully incorporated. The batter will be slightly bubbly from the soda but should be evenly blended.
3. Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly in your greased baking dish and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, then check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
4. Cool Completely
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Cooling the cake thoroughly ensures the whipped cream topping won’t melt when applied.
5. Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface with a spatula. Smooth it carefully so the topping creates a soft, fluffy layer across the cake.
6. Chill Before Serving
Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This helps the whipped topping firm up and meld with the cake, making it easier to slice and serve.
7. Add Cherries and Serve
Slice the cake into squares and place a Maraschino cherry on top of each slice for a fun garnish. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
Use full-sugar soda for best texture and flavor.
You can swap in lemon-lime or grape soda for fun variations.
A 9×13 pan works too—adjust baking time slightly.
For a citrus boost, add orange zest to the batter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes Additional Time: 1 hour (chill time)
- Category: Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 243 kcal
- Sugar: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Protein: 2g