If you’re craving nostalgia by the forkful, this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is your ticket straight to summer dessert heaven. Imagine all the creamy, dreamy vibes of an orange creamsicle, but transformed into a silky-smooth cheesecake with absolutely no oven required. Every bite is a little citrusy cloud layered on a buttery graham cracker crust—the kind of treat that brightens up a weekday or steals the show at your next get-together. Trust me, when you set this chilled beauty on the table, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The lineup for this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each ingredient brings something to the party—be it bold orange flavor, luscious texture, or a pop of color that makes every slice sing. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand, plus a handy note on why it matters.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These form a crunchy, buttery crust that perfectly balances the creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness in the crust makes each bite extra satisfying.
- Unsalted butter (melted): This binds the crumbs together and gives the crust its rich, toasty flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): The heart and soul of the filling—make sure it’s soft for the smoothest texture!
- Powdered sugar: It sweetens the cheesecake filling without making it gritty.
- Orange juice (fresh or bottled): Adds zippy citrus flavor that makes the whole cheesecake taste like sunshine.
- Orange zest: Just a tablespoon takes the orange flavor from subtle to show-stopping.
- Vanilla extract: A little vanilla makes every other flavor pop and adds classic creamsicle vibes.
- Orange gelatin (Jell-O): This gives the cake its signature color and light, mousse-like texture (plus a flavor boost!).
- Boiling water: Dissolves the gelatin perfectly, making sure it blends into the filling seamlessly.
- Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip): Folded in at the end for an irresistibly light and airy finish.
How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until you get that sandcastle-wet consistency—every single crumb should look glossy and moistened. Then, firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Take your time here; the tighter the press, the less likely your crust will crumble. Pop the pan in the fridge to chill while you work some magic on the filling.
Step 2: Dissolve the Gelatin
In a small bowl, combine the orange gelatin powder with boiling water. Stir until everything dissolves completely—no grainy bits! Set it aside to cool to room temperature. Letting the gelatin cool ensures it mixes smoothly into the cream cheese later (no lumps or streaks).
Step 3: Make the Filling Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. This is your secret to a lump-free filling. Add powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until everything is silky and gorgeously orange-speckled.
Step 4: Blend in the Gelatin
With the mixer running on low, gradually pour in the cooled orange gelatin. Give it a good whisk so the flavors blend and the filling starts to firm up just a touch. The gelatin is what allows your cheesecake to slice beautifully once it’s set.
Step 5: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold the whipped topping into the filling, using a spatula and a light touch. This step gives your cheesecake its signature cloud-like texture—never heavy, just perfectly creamy and fluffy! Pour the finished filling over your chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for a picture-perfect finish.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Cover the whole pan and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or (even better!) overnight. This crucial step allows the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe to firm up and the flavors to meld into citrus perfection.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, unleash your inner artist. Add more whipped topping, a sprinkle of extra orange zest, or a few pretty orange slices for that wow factor. Remove the cheesecake from the pan, slice, and share!
How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touch for this cheesecake is all about personal flair. Try swirling extra whipped topping in pretty dollops, or scatter curls of fragrant orange zest across each slice. For a bit of drama, nestle a few fresh orange supremes or candied orange peels on top—instant sunshine on a plate!
Side Dishes
This citrusy showstopper is right at home next to something simple and fresh. Think a platter of juicy berries, a crisp glass of sparkling lemonade, or even a citrus salad to keep the flavors light and bright. If you want to go all out, offer a spread of tea cookies or shortbread on the side for guests to nibble between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe in individual mason jars for a grab-and-go picnic treat? Or slice it into petite squares for a dessert buffet that’ll have everyone buzzing. You can even make mini cheesecakes in cupcake liners—perfect party fare! Add striped straws or paper umbrellas for a retro creamsicle vibe that’s totally delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover cheesecake can be covered and refrigerated for up to 4 days. Just keep it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container—this keeps the filling creamy and the crust crisp, so it tastes freshly made every time.
Freezing
Want to enjoy your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe even longer? It freezes beautifully. Just slice, place parchment between the pieces, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. To serve, simply defrost the slices overnight in the fridge, and they’ll taste just as luscious as the day you made them.
Reheating
No reheating’s needed—this cheesecake is meant to be served chilled! If it’s been in the freezer, allow it to thaw in the fridge for several hours before digging in. Enjoy every refreshing, creamy bite straight from the refrigerator.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream works beautifully here; just whip it to soft peaks and use cup-for-cup in place of the whipped topping. It makes the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe even more decadent and rich.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Definitely—ahead-of-time is actually best! The flavors meld and the texture becomes even silkier if you assemble the cheesecake the day before. Keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to wow your guests.
How can I boost the orange flavor?
If you love all things orange, stir in a few drops of food-grade orange extract, or add an extra spoonful of zest to amp up the flavor. A drop or two of orange food coloring will also give you an even bolder creamsicle hue.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
No problem! You can easily use a standard 9-inch pie plate or an 8×8-inch baking pan. Just line the pan with parchment for easy lifting and slicing—your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe will still taste dreamy.
Is this cheesecake gluten-free?
The crust is typically made from wheat-based crackers, so it’s not gluten-free. But you can substitute gluten-free graham crackers and make sure your gelatin is gluten-free for a delicious celiac-friendly treat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an effortless dessert that tastes as delicious as it looks, you can’t go wrong with this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself dreaming up occasions just for another slice. I hope you give it a try and let this creamy, citrusy treat add a bright pop of joy to your dessert rotation!
Print
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 6 hours chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing citrus flavors of summer with this easy No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. A creamy blend of orange zest and juice in a smooth cream cheese filling atop a graham cracker crust, this dessert is a delight for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1/4 cup boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and refrigerate.
- Prepare the Filling: Dissolve orange gelatin in boiling water. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, orange juice, zest, and vanilla. Mix in gelatin and fold in whipped topping.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Garnish with whipped topping, orange zest, or slices before serving.
Notes
- Enhance the orange flavor with a few drops of orange extract or food coloring.
- Cheesecake can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
