Orange Poke Cake with Honey-Orange Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange Poke Cake with Honey-Orange Glaze is a bright, citrusy dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Moist, fluffy cake is infused with zesty orange flavor and topped with a glossy glaze made with honey and fresh orange juice. The “poke” technique ensures every bite is bursting with sweet citrus syrup—perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or anytime you want a refreshing treat.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

orange cake mix (or white/yellow cake mix with orange zest)eggsvegetable oilorange juice (fresh or bottled)orange zesthoneyconfectioners’ sugarvanilla extractbutter (optional for richer glaze)

directions

Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the cake batter using the mix, eggs, oil, and orange juice instead of water. Stir in orange zest for extra flavor.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then use a wooden spoon handle or straw to poke holes all over the top of the cake.

In a small saucepan, combine honey, fresh orange juice, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla. Add butter if using. Heat over low until smooth and slightly thickened.

Slowly pour the warm glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.

Let cool completely, then chill for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

Garnish with extra orange zest or whipped cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12–16 slices.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 25–30 minutesCooling and chilling time: 1 hour 15 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

Use lemon juice and zest for a lemon-honey version.

Add orange gelatin powder to the cake for deeper color and flavor.

Top with a cream cheese frosting or orange whipped cream.

Use blood orange juice for a beautiful pink hue and unique taste.

Sprinkle with toasted coconut for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before enjoying.Not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change with the glaze.

FAQs

Can I make this with homemade cake?

Yes, use a homemade orange or vanilla cake recipe and follow the same poking and glazing process.

What’s the best way to poke holes?

Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a thick straw for evenly spaced holes.

Why chill the cake?

Chilling helps the glaze set and enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, this cake is great when made a day in advance.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Yes, but fresh orange juice gives the best flavor—especially in the glaze.

Can I skip the butter in the glaze?

Yes, it’s optional and just adds richness.

Can I use honey substitutes?

Maple syrup or agave can work, but honey adds the most complementary flavor.

Can I double the glaze?

Yes, if you want a more saturated and glossy finish.

Is this cake too sweet?

The honey-orange glaze balances sweet and tangy—it’s rich but not overly sugary.

Can I top it with fruit?

Absolutely! Fresh orange segments or berries make a lovely garnish.

Conclusion

Orange Poke Cake with Honey-Orange Glaze is a sunshine-sweet dessert that’s as easy as it is elegant. Moist, citrus-kissed, and dripping with golden glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion where you want to brighten the table and bring smiles all around. A slice of this cake is like a bite of summer!

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