Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a refreshing and creamy dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic orange creamsicle. With a smooth orange-vanilla cheesecake filling over a buttery graham cracker crust, this chilled dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you crave a citrusy treat without turning on the oven.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham cracker crumbs
unsalted butter
cream cheese
granulated sugar
orange Jell-O
boiling water
cold water
heavy whipping cream
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
orange zest
directions
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until fully combined. Press into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
In a separate bowl, dissolve orange Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and let it cool to room temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Gradually mix the cooled Jell-O into the cream cheese mixture. Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture.
Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until fully set.
Before serving, garnish with additional whipped cream, orange slices, or zest if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8-10 slices.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use lemon or lime Jell-O for a citrusy twist.
Add crushed mandarin oranges to the filling for texture.
Make individual servings using mini jars or cups.
Top with white chocolate shavings for extra sweetness.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Not recommended for freezing as texture may change.
Serve chilled directly from the fridge; no reheating needed.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer.
What can I use instead of orange Jell-O?
Try natural orange gelatin or freshly squeezed orange juice with gelatin powder.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely, a pre-made graham cracker crust works well for convenience.
How long does it take to set?
At least 6 hours, but overnight is best for firm slices.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s lightly sweet with a nice balance from the tangy cream cheese and citrus.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for preparing a day before serving.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the creamy texture and bright orange flavor.
Can I add orange extract?
Yes, for an extra burst of flavor, a small amount of orange extract can enhance the taste.
Will this hold up in warm weather?
It’s best kept refrigerated until ready to serve, especially in warm conditions.
What type of pan should I use?
A springform pan is ideal for easy removal and clean slices.
Conclusion
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a dreamy, citrusy dessert that brings cool comfort and creamy delight to your table. Easy to make and packed with nostalgic flavor, it’s a sure hit for summer parties or whenever you crave something sweet and refreshing without the heat of the oven.
PrintNo-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, refreshing no-bake cheesecake that combines the nostalgic flavors of an orange creamsicle with the smooth texture of a classic cheesecake.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (3 oz) package orange-flavored gelatin
- 1/4 cup boiling water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
- Orange food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water and allow to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
- Stir in the dissolved gelatin. Add a few drops of orange food coloring if desired.
- Fold in the whipped topping until evenly incorporated.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve chilled and garnish with whipped cream or orange slices if desired.
Notes
- For a stronger orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract.
- Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved to avoid grainy texture.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal and clean presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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