Triple Orange Poke Cake

Step 1

1. Prepare cake mix according to directions the box. Bake cake in two round cake pans. Allow to cool in pan on wire racks. Do not remove the cakes from the pans.
2. Use a wooden skewer to poke holes in each cake round, about 1-inch apart.
3. Prepare gelatin as directed on box with water. Pour half of the liquid gelatin mixture over one of the cake layers, pouring it all over to cover the holes.
4. Repeat with the other half of the gelatin mixture and other cake layer.
5. Refrigerate cakes for at least 2 hours.
6. Prepare the buttercream by beating the cream cheese and butter together in a large mixing bowl until creamy. Beat in orange extract. Reduce speed to low and add in one cup of powdered sugar at a time, beating until incorporated.
7. Add the food coloring and beat on medium until frosting is smooth and fluffy.
8. Place one cake layer onto a cake plate and spread 1/4 of the butter cream on top to about 1/2-inch from the edge.
9. Place second cake layer on top and press down gently. Frost sides and top of cake with remaining frosting. Keep cake refrigerated until serving.