Summer Sunshine Treats

Introduction

Summer Sunshine Treats are delightful and fun snacks that will brighten any gathering! These easy-to-make goodies include cupcakes, poke cake, truffles, and cheesecake, all bursting with sweet orange flavors. They are perfect for summer celebrations and are a hit with kids and adults alike!

Why Make This Recipe

These treats are not only delicious but also quick to prepare. They combine simple ingredients and easy steps, making them great for a busy weekend or a family get-together. Plus, who doesn’t love a sweet treat that tastes like sunshine?

How to Make Summer Sunshine Treats

Ingredients:

1 box white cake mix
12 ounces orange soda
1 tsp orange flavoring
42 oz white frosting
Orange food color
3 oz orange Jello
1 1/3 cup water
1 box vanilla pudding
1 1/4 cups whole milk
Mandarin oranges
Cool Whip
1/4 cup butter
3 tbsp cream
1 tbsp orange zest
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp orange extract
1 cup white chocolate
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 cup sugar
8 tbsp butter
2 cups cream
Vanilla wafers
1 box orange Jello
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 blocks cream cheese
1 tsp clear vanilla

Directions:

For Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, orange soda, and orange flavoring. Mix well. Pour the mixture into cupcake liners and bake according to package instructions. Once they cool, frost them with white frosting mixed with orange food color.
For Poke Cake: Prepare the white cake mix according to the package, and bake it in a 9×13 pan. Once the cake cools, poke holes in it using a fork. Mix the orange Jello with water and pour it over the cake. Make the vanilla pudding with milk and spread it on top. Decorate with mandarin oranges and Cool Whip.
For No-Bake Truffles: Melt butter and cream in a pan over low heat. Mix in orange zest, vanilla extract, orange extract, and food coloring. Stir in the white chocolate until melted. Fold in powdered sugar. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate until set.
For No-Bake Cheesecake: In a bowl, beat together sugar, orange zest, butter, and cream until fluffy. Crumble the vanilla wafers into the mixture and mix well. Dissolve the orange Jello in hot water and mix it into the cream mixture. Add powdered sugar and cream cheese, then blend until smooth. Pour it into a crust and refrigerate until firm.

How to Serve Summer Sunshine Treats

These treats can be served together on a dessert table or individually. Serve the cupcakes and poke cake on plates, and offer the truffles and cheesecake as bite-sized snacks. They are perfect for summer picnics or parties!

How to Store Summer Sunshine Treats

Store any leftover treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cupcakes and poke cake can be kept for up to three days. The truffles and cheesecake can last up to a week.

Tips to Make Summer Sunshine Treats

Use fresh mandarin oranges for a vibrant taste.
Don’t skip the orange food coloring for the frosting; it adds extra fun!
Make the truffles in advance and let them chill overnight for better flavor.

Variation

You can switch up the flavors by using lemon or lime instead of orange for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you like! Vanilla or lemon would work great with this recipe.

2. How do I make these treats gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cake mix and ensure that your other ingredients, like Jello and frosting, are gluten-free too.

3. Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes and truffles. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.**