Fried Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour 2 (9-inch) round cake pans.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl combine and beat with a hand held electric mixer all the ingredients until the batter is smooth.

3. 3

   Divide the batter between the 2 prepared cake pans.

4. 4

   Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

5. 5

   Let the cakes cool in their pans for 5 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.

6. 6

   For the Cream Cheese and Orange Frosting:

7. 7

   Cream the cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth.

8. 8

   Beat in the confectioners' sugar until smooth and then beat in the orange juice, zest and food coloring.

9. 9

   For the Fry Batter:

10. 10

    Whisk together all the ingredients in a large shallow bowl.

11. 11

    For frying:

12. 12

    Heat the oil in a very large Dutch oven, must be at least 11-inches wide.

13. 13

    Dip 1 of the cake layers in the batter and gently place it in the hot oil.

14. 14

    Fry until golden brown and crisp, about 4 minutes per side.

15. 15

    Transfer to a paper towel lined platter to drain.

16. 16

    Repeat with the 2nd cake layer.

17. 17

    Let the fried cakes cool slightly and then frost the top of 1 layer.

18. 18

    Place the 2nd layer on top of it and frost.

19. 19

    Don't frost the sides, it will be pretty to see the layers of frosting and crispy fried cake.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.