31 Scrumptious Orange Desserts for a Quick Summer Treat

Sandra Walker

October 30, 2025

Break free from the monotony of traditional chocolate desserts and indulge in the vibrant flavors of oranges instead! The citrusy twist provides a delightful respite from the ordinary, while still catering to your sweet cravings. This assortment of orange-flavored dessert recipes is bursting with variety, featuring both lighter options like refreshing fruit salads and more indulgent choices such as decadent homemade donuts.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a quick fix, you’ll find the perfect recipe among these tried-and-true orange desserts. From classic orange rolls to creative shortcuts like Orange Crush cake, there’s something for every baker, regardless of their skill level, budget, or time constraints. Ultimately, the key is finding that one special dessert to capture your heart and taste buds.

Orange Olive Oil Donuts

Orange Olive Oil Donuts

Elevate your mealtime with these scrumptious baked orange donuts that are perfect for both dessert and as a delicious breakfast treat! These soft citrus-flavored cake donuts make an impressive addition to any family gathering, sure to delight everyone’s taste buds. The subtle tang of the orange pairs beautifully with a homemade glaze or a dollop of marmalade jam on top.

Imagine starting your day with the zesty warmth of an orange olive oil donut – it’s the perfect way to wake up and tantalize your senses, whether you enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat or a delightful dessert option!

Orange Crush Pound Cake

Orange Crush Pound Cake

Pondering a creative twist on traditional pound cake, this recipe adds a unique element with the substitution of Orange Crush soda. Not only does the soda introduce an extra layer of sweetness to the cake, but it also infuses its distinct orange flavor, elevating the overall taste experience. The result is a beautifully moist cake that requires no frosting, a characteristic commonly associated with pound cakes.

Each slice is delightfully crumbly, with the richness of butter and the tang of orange zest perfectly balanced. This versatile cake makes for an excellent gift or addition to any gathering, be it a visit to a neighbor in need or a celebratory brunch.

Citrus Fruit Salad

Citrus Fruit Salad

Juxtaposing the warmth of a summer picnic with a refreshing and light dessert is simply just what’s needed. Joining together an assortment of fresh fruits, their natural sweetness and abundance of orange pieces will undoubtedly make this fruity dessert a crowd-pleaser. The cool and crisp texture of the fruit provides a perfect balance to its natural flavors and sugars as they blend into a delicious and mouth-watering fruit salad.

Juxtapose these vibrant jewel-like colors against your favorite crystal bowl, and you’ll have a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress your guests. Finally, top this fruit salad with a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dreamy dessert experience that everyone will love.

Orange Dream Bars

Orange Dream Bars

Brimming with citrusy flavor, we introduce you to our new creation: orange dream bars. Gone are the days of traditional lemon bars – instead, indulge in a delicious orange curd perched atop a flaky crust, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness. What sets these orange bars apart is their ability to capture all the classic traits of their lemon counterparts without the pungency of lemons themselves; it’s a subtle twist that will leave you wanting more.

Orange Upside-Down Cake

Orange Upside-Down Cake

Wrapped in its sweet and tangy goodness, this orange upside-down cake offers a refreshing twist on a beloved classic. By substituting zesty orange slices for traditional pineapple rings, the citrus flavor takes center stage, leaving the original version in its wake. The result is a delightfully sticky cake that’s perfect for savoring on your back porch as you watch the sunset, feeling like a true Southern treat.

Glazed Orange Rolls

Glazed Orange Rolls

Dethroning cinnamon rolls as the breakfast champion is no easy feat, but someone’s got to do it. Don’t get us wrong, cinnamon-stuffed sticky buns have been a staple in many kitchens for years. However, we believe it’s time to give them some competition. Daring to be different, why not try swirl up some glazed orange rolls instead? They’re the perfect treat to start or end your day with – a sweet and indulgent pastry that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Orange Shortbread

Orange Shortbread

Crafting the perfect dessert for any occasion can be as easy as baking a batch of humble shortbread cookies. Whether you’re enjoying them with a steaming cup of coffee during your afternoon break or sweeping away crumbs after a satisfying meal, their simple yet delightful flavor is sure to impress. To elevate this classic treat, consider infusing it with a hint of light orange zest, subtly shifting the flavor profile and adding a refreshing twist that will take your shortbread to new heights.

Dark Chocolate Orange Cookies

Dark Chocolate Orange Cookies

Fresh from the oven, these dark chocolate orange cookies are an absolute delight. Fusing classic flavors, they offer a perfect balance of chewiness on the outside and softness within, much like the ideal cookie texture. With their melt-in-your-mouth centers, it’s no surprise that you might find yourself craving more – in fact, doubling the batch may become your go-to move!

The unique combination of dark chocolate and orange takes these cookies to a new level, expertly walking the fine line between fudgy and cakey. For an added touch of luxury, why not dip them in rich, velvety dark chocolate? The result is nothing short of indulgent and sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Chocolate Orange Brownies

Chocolate Orange Brownies

Rich in flavor and visually stunning, the combination of dark chocolate and vibrant orange is a match made in heaven. Rather than settling for an ordinary dessert, why not surprise your friends with a brownie that’s truly exceptional? The essence of orange zest adds a unique twist to the traditional chocolatey taste, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave everyone talking.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate your baking game, these high-brow chocolate orange brownies are sure to impress with their sophisticated flavor and elegant presentation.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Vibrant flavors and colors come together in this revamped holiday classic: cranberry orange bread pudding. The traditional dessert is elevated by the addition of tart cranberries and juicy orange pieces, which not only add a burst of flavor but also a pop of color that makes each bite a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or just looking to spruce up your holiday menu, this bread pudding is sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.

Creamsicle Pie

Creamsicle Pie

Naturally, who can resist the allure of creamsicle’s sweet and creamy flavor? From classic desserts like fudge and ice cream to more recent interpretations like pies, the timeless orange and vanilla combination is a winner. Give your taste buds a refreshing twist with this creative creamsicle pie recipe! This innovative no-bake dessert captures the essence of the beloved ice cream treats, but with an added twist – a delectable crust!

Bring this show-stopping pie to your next social gathering or block party and watch it become the star of the show. I’m confident you won’t be left with any leftovers!

Orange Sorbet

Orange Sorbet

Versatile and refreshing, sweet sorbet is an ideal way to beat the heat on a sweltering summer day. This revitalizing treat is packed with orange flavor, making it an excellent choice for a light and fruity dessert option after a satisfying meal. Sorbet, being a frozen dessert, is significantly lighter than ice cream, allowing you to indulge in its sweetness without feeling too guilty.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize by topping it with fresh berries or your favorite fruits, which not only adds flavor but also provides an extra dose of nutrients and freshness. With sorbet, you can enjoy a cool treat every day when you make your own at home.

Orange Fluff Salad

Orange Fluff Salad

Personally, I have a weakness for any recipe that incorporates whipped topping. The combination of sticky-sweet whipped topping and juicy mandarin orange pieces in this sweet dessert is absolutely irresistible. What sets this treat apart from others, however, is the clever use of cottage cheese as a secret ingredient. Though it may seem like an unusual addition, trust me when I say that it truly elevates the flavor and texture of this dish.

Best of all, making this dessert is incredibly easy – no heat or special equipment required to get started!

Orange Pistachio Cookies

Orange Pistachio Cookies

Renowned for their irresistible charm, these bite-sized treats are ideal for satisfying any sweet craving at any time of day. The cookie itself is an orange-infused butter cookie that boasts a texture slightly softer than traditional shortbread, making it a delightful departure from the norm. Notably, they’re topped with a tangy orange glaze, which perfectly complements their rich flavor profile.

As an added touch, a sprinkle of chopped pistachios adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness, although those who prefer to avoid nuts can simply omit this final step and still indulge in these incredible cookies.

Candied Oranges

Candied Oranges

Taking center stage on any dessert table, these candied orange slices make a stunning addition. Think of pairing them with the chocolate orange brownies or pound cake mentioned earlier – they’re a match made in heaven. Enjoy them as is for a sweet treat, or indulge in their old-world flavor reminiscent of Laura Ingalls’ childhood sweets. Perfect for beginners, this recipe is an excellent first step into candy making, promising impressive results that your loved ones will adore.

Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia Salad

Nested between the realms of sweet treats and healthy snacks lies a salad that defies convention – one named after the food of the Greek gods. This fruit salad, with its generous helpings of marshmallow cream-drenched fruits, has transcended its humble origins to become an indulgent dessert experience. The evolution of this dish is evident in its modern variations, which include the addition of maraschino cherries, coconut shavings, crunchy apples, and even ripe bananas.

For those seeking a light yet fulfilling orange-infused treat, this chilled bowl of indulgence is the perfect solution.

Orange Hot Chocolate

Orange Hot Chocolate

You can’t go wrong with the combination of warm and cozy when it comes to winter drinks, and hot chocolate is certainly one of the best ways to do just that. Its sweet and comforting flavor has a way of warming you up from the inside out, making it the perfect treat on a chilly day. But why settle for the usual recipe when you can shake things up with orange hot chocolate instead?

The classic combination of orange and chocolate is a match made in heaven – think about all the times you’ve been tempted by boxes of chocolate oranges or indulged in dipped candies that feature these two flavors together. It’s no wonder they’re an irresistible duo, and now you can bring a little of that magic to your hot cocoa bar with this simple orange hot chocolate recipe.

Orange Cream Cupcakes

Orange Cream Cupcakes

Making a statement with dessert has never been easier thanks to these unique and delectable whimsical orange cream cupcakes. The delightful combination of orange-flavored cake and frosting provides an authentic creamsicle flavor experience that is sure to tantalize taste buds.

To add a touch of elegance, top each cupcake with a precious candied orange wedge, resulting in a dozen cupcakes that are not only mouth-wateringly delicious but also visually stunning, perfect for snapping photos to share on social media. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a sweet treat, serving these cupcakes at your next gathering will undoubtedly bring a celebratory touch and add some much-needed creativity to the traditional cupcake presentation.

Cranberry Orange Scones

Cranberry Orange Scones

Baking is a wonderful way to start any day, and making these delicious cranberry orange scones is sure to bring a smile to your face. The combination of sweet and crumbly texture with dried cranberries and orange zest sprinkled throughout creates a treat that’s perfect for either breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent or just looking for a way to satisfy your morning cravings, these scones are sure to hit the spot.

Be prepared for every bite to be packed with a balance of flavors and textures – a guaranteed piece of each delicious component. Bringing out these scones warm from the oven is the ultimate experience; grab one (or two!) and indulge in this scrumptious orange dessert.

Orange Fudge

Orange Fudge

Unlike traditional chocolate-based fudges, this innovative treat offers a bold departure from the norm. Characterized by its soft and creamy texture, paired with a revitalizing citrus kick, the orange fudge is sure to tantalize taste buds. As each square is imbued with an abundance of vibrant orange flavor and color, it presents itself as a visually stunning dessert when presented on a platter.

For those looking to introduce something new and exciting to their gatherings or events, this unique orange dessert is an excellent choice to consider.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Flavors of orange and vanilla are expertly combined to create a mouthwatering desserts that will transport your taste buds to a world of creamy richness. When you serve this creamsicle cheesecake, get ready to be immersed in a delightful fusion of decadence, as the vibrant orange zest adds an extra layer of depth and complexity.

Similar to a classic New York-style cheesecake, this dessert boasts a luxurious texture, but with the added bonus of an unmistakable orange flavor profile that sets it apart from other cheesecakes.

Orange Creamsicle

Orange Creamsicle

Unlock the secrets to making your own orange creamsicle at home, a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of summertime and childhood. These unique frozen novelties are not just delicious, but also filled with a sense of warmth and comfort. Once you’ve mastered the recipe, you’ll never have to settle for store-bought again – your homemade creations will be so much better, filled with love and care that’s hard to replicate in mass-produced treats.

You’ll take a step back in time as you relish these tasty popsicles, remembering the simple joys of life and the sweet taste of nostalgia.

Orange Juice Cake

Orange Juice Cake

Creating a delicious homemade orange juice cake is easier than you think. Simply check if you have the necessary ingredients in your fridge, including a jug of freshly squeezed orange juice. If you do, then you’re all set to bake this scrumptious dessert! Enjoy every bite of this moist and flavorful cake that’s reminiscent of sipping on a glass of chilled orange juice on a warm summer day.

This naturally flavored cake is sure to be a hit with your family and friends, making it the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together or a special celebration like a birthday or anniversary.

Orange Pudding

Orange Pudding

Painting the perfect ending to any meal, fresh and vibrant orange pudding is a rich and creamy dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Prep ahead of time by whipping up this no-bake treat and let it chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to indulge. This one-of-a-kind delight is always a crowd-pleaser!Prepare yourself for a taste sensation – try this soft and mouthwatering orange pudding today!

Orange Poke Cake

Orange Poke Cake

Welcoming the perfect blend of moist and flavorful, poke cakes are renowned for their signature sticky and indulgent glaze that seeps deep into every crumb. This delightful phenomenon can be savored with our scrumptious orange poke cake recipe. A beautifully baked orange cake is submersed in a decadent orange glaze to create an unparalleled tres leches experience, where each bite transports you to a world of succulent delight.

The rich and vibrant orange flavor of the glaze harmoniously complements the tender cake, creating a match made in heaven. This tantalizing treat is sure to vanish before it even has a chance to cool down, leaving everyone craving for more!

Dark Chocolate Candied Orange

Dark Chocolate Candied Orange

Making the most of seasonal ingredients is what this recipe is all about. By combining the classic flavors of candied orange with the richness of dark chocolate, we’ve created a treat that’s sure to transport you back in time. Just like their traditional counterparts, these dark chocolate-coated candied orange slices are made by dipping freshly prepared candied orange peel into rich, velvety dark chocolate.

Whether you’re looking for a sweet indulgence or a taste of nostalgia, these old-fashioned treats are sure to hit the spot. So why not take a step back in time and try making some today? You might just find yourself falling in love with this timeless combination all over again.

26 Easy Orange Dessert Collection

Instructions

Instructions

Keeping it quick and easy is exactly what we have in mind when creating a delicious orange dessert. To begin, choose a recipe that you’ve been eyeing for some time now. Once you’ve selected your favorite dish, gather all the necessary ingredients to avoid any last-minute trips to the store.

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