Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Old Fashioned Orange Juice Cake is a moist, tender Bundt cake bursting with bright citrus flavor and finished with a sweet, sticky orange glaze. Made with simple ingredients including boxed cake mix and instant pudding, this retro dessert is quick to prepare and perfect for brunches, potlucks, or a nostalgic treat any day of the week.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

yellow cake mixinstant vanilla pudding mixorange juicevegetable oileggsorange zestpowdered sugarbutter

directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and generously grease and flour a Bundt pan.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and vanilla pudding mix.

Add the orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange zest.

Beat the mixture using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and well combined.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze by melting butter in a saucepan over low heat.

Stir in powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and slightly thickened.

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Invert the cake onto a serving plate and slowly spoon the warm glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in.

Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-14 slices.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Cooling and glazing time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use a lemon or pineapple juice glaze for a citrus twist.

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for texture.

Top with a dusting of powdered sugar instead of glaze for a lighter finish.

Substitute orange extract for extra orange intensity.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 7 days for longer freshness.
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
The cake also freezes well for up to 2 months—wrap tightly before freezing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh orange juice?

Yes, fresh orange juice enhances the flavor even more.

Do I have to use instant pudding mix?

Yes, it helps keep the cake moist and tender.

Can I make this cake without a Bundt pan?

You can use a 9×13-inch pan instead, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

Is the glaze necessary?

It adds a lot of flavor and moisture, but the cake is still delicious without it.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yellow cake mix is classic, but white or even orange-flavored mix can work too.

Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes, try folding in chopped mandarin oranges for added texture and flavor.

Is this cake good for special occasions?

Absolutely—its bright citrus flavor and beautiful shape make it ideal for celebrations.

Can I use orange zest in the glaze too?

Yes, for a stronger orange punch.

How can I keep the glaze from pooling at the bottom?

Glaze slowly and let it absorb a little at a time.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Vegetable oil keeps it moist, but melted butter can be used for richer flavor.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Orange Juice Cake is a simple yet show-stopping dessert that brings sunshine to any table. Its moist crumb, citrusy glaze, and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers. One bite and you’ll see why this classic cake remains a favorite through generations.