Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest, giving the batter a fragrant citrus touch.
4. Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice and milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
5. Bake the Cakes:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the Creamy Orange Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the chilled heavy whipping cream, beating on medium-high speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and holds stiff peaks.
7. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer over the frosting. Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it with a spatula for a neat finish.
8. Decorate:
   • Garnish the top of the cake with orange slices and fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice and serve this beautifully creamy, citrusy cake. Its light, refreshing taste makes it perfect for any time of year, especially when you’re craving a burst of sunshine in dessert form!

Tips for a Perfect Orange Cream Cake:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest are key to getting the best flavor out of this cake. Avoid bottled juice for a more vibrant citrus taste.
• Chill the Frosting: Make sure your frosting ingredients are cold before whipping. This helps achieve that fluffy, creamy consistency that’s perfect for spreading.
• Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them when ready to serve. Store the cake layers tightly wrapped at room temperature.