Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

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Creamy, rich, and tangy, this orange cream cheese frosting contains a secret ingredient that makes it thick enough for frosting layer cakes and piping swirls without being overly sweet!

Who doesn’t love frosting? Whether you’re topping cupcakes, cookies, or just sneaking a spoonful straight from the bowl (no judgment here!), a good frosting will take your desserts to the next level.

But this isn’t just any frosting – we’re talking about orange cream cheese frosting! It’s tangy, creamy, and packed with a bright citrusy kick that’ll just knock your socks off.

I have to admit – I’m a little biased towards orange-flavored desserts. There’s something about that sweet, sunny flavor that instantly lifts my mood, especially in the winter when everything else feels a bit dreary.

While it was made for my classic Orange Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s also lovely on this Orange Loaf Cake – and of course these dreamy Orange Cupcakes.

This orange frosting isn’t just for orange cakes, though – it’s a game-changer for so many desserts. Got a batch of vanilla cupcakes that needs a little something special? Orange cream cheese frosting to the rescue. Thinking of jazzing up some sugar cookies or cinnamon rolls? Slather this on and watch them disappear. Want to bring a little twist to your carrot cake? Give this frosting a try!

Why You’ll Love This Frosting

It has the perfect texture. Thanks to the cornstarch (the secret ingredient!), this orange cream cheese frosting has the ideal consistency for frosting layer cakes and piping decorative swirls onto cupcakes. It’s sturdy enough to hold its shape while still having that perfect creamy texture.

It is not overly sweet. This recipe has just the right amount of sweetness, with the tanginess of cream cheese and the freshness of orange zest shining through.

It is super easy to make. You don’t need any complicated techniques or fancy equipment. This frosting comes together quickly with just a hand mixer or stand mixer!

It’s also make-ahead friendly. This orange cream cheese frosting stores beautifully in the fridge for at least a couple of days. The cornstarch helps maintain its structure, so you can make it ahead and simply whip it again before use.

Ingredient Notes

Icing Sugar

Also known as powdered sugar, or confectioner’s sugar, icing sugar is what gives the frosting its sweetness and silky smooth texture.

Cornstarch

This is the game-changer! If you’ve ever found yourself adding cup after cup of icing sugar to get a consistency that wouldn’t have your cake layers sliding around, only to end up with a sickeningly sweet icing, this is the solution.

Cornstarch stabilizes the orange cream cheese frosting, absorbing the moisture from the cream cheese – which is what makes it runny, and making it thick enough to hold its shape for piping swirls onto cupcakes and frosting layer cakes.

Feel free to increase the amount if necessary – you can add up to a half cup of cornstarch without affecting the flavor. I find 1 tablespoon to be just right.

Note that for more intricate swirls and decorations, your best bet is still a buttercream frosting that will really hold its shape. But for a great-tasting frosting with a more casual vibe, this orange frosting is my favorite option.

Unsalted Butter

I like to use unsalted butter so I can control the amount of salt that goes into my frosting. If you use salted butter you will want to skip the salt. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature so it blends well with the cream cheese and you’re not left with a lumpy frosting.

Cream Cheese

Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest, richest frosting. Use only cream cheese bricks, not use cream cheese spread (the kind that comes in a tub), as that is a different cream cheese product that has added moisture and will make your frosting runny.

Be sure your cream cheese is also at room temperature so it blends easily with the butter.

Vanilla Extract

A little bit of pure vanilla extract is must as it really brings all the flavors together! If you’d like an even stronger orange flavor, you can also use orange extract.

Orange Zest

The zest is where all the citrusy flavor comes from. Use fresh oranges, and be sure to only grate the outer orange layer (not the bitter white pith underneath). A microplane zester is the best tool for this.

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Whisk thoroughly to break up any clumps.

1. In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer on medium speed (or the bowl of a stand mixer) to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the texture is completely smooth and creamy.

1. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing until fully incorporated.

1. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue mixing until the frosting is velvety smooth and reaches the desired consistency. Feel free to add more cornstarch, a tablespoon at a time if you’d like your frosting even thicker.

Storage Instructions

Store the orange cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir or whip with a mixer to restore its creamy consistency.

If you’d like to store the frosting for longer, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bring it to room temperature and re-whip to ensure it’s smooth and fluffy before using.