No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with bright, nostalgic flavors and is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet, all wrapped up in a velvety cheesecake that doesn’t require oven time. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon treat or the star of your next gathering, this cheesecake brings that classic creamsicle charm with fresh orange zest and juice that make every bite sing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe are simple but essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and fresh color contrast. From graham cracker crust crumbs to the vibrant orange gelatin, every component works in harmony to craft a dessert that’s both creamy and refreshing.

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crisp, buttery base that holds the cheesecake together with a subtle sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs and adds richness without overpowering.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to perfectly balance the crust.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks for lightness and fluffy texture in the filling.
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the cheesecake, lending smoothness and tang.
• ¾ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the creamy mixture gently for that perfect dessert sweetness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor complexity with warm, comforting notes.
• 1 tbsp orange zest: Infuses fresh citrus aroma and a burst of natural orange flavor.
• ½ cup fresh orange juice: Brings a bright, juicy tang to marry with the sweetness.
• 1 package (3 oz) orange-flavored gelatin: Sets the cheesecake without baking and gives it the signature creamsicle flavor.
• ½ cup boiling water: Used to dissolve the gelatin quickly and thoroughly.
• ¼ cup cold water: Balances the gelatin mixture for perfect texture.
• Whipped cream: For topping, adding extra creaminess and visual appeal.
• Orange zest or orange slices for garnish: A fresh, colorful finishing touch that ties the flavor theme together beautifully.

How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl until everything feels like moist sand. This mixture will be the crisp, flavorful foundation of your cheesecake.

Step 2: Press Crust into Pan

Firmly press this crust blend into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a glass or your fingers to ensure it’s tightly packed, which will help keep the crust intact once chilled.

Step 3: Chill the Crust

Pop the pan into the fridge while you move on to the filling preparation. This step helps the crust set up nicely so it holds during serving.

Step 4: Dissolve the Gelatin

In a small bowl, pour the boiling water over the orange-flavored gelatin and stir until fully dissolved. Next, add the cold water to cool it down and get the right set consistency.

Step 5: Cool Gelatin Mixture

Allow the gelatin mixture to cool to room temperature, which is crucial so it doesn’t curdle the cream cheese when mixed.

Step 6: Whip the Heavy Cream

Using a mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This airy cream will lighten the luscious cheesecake filling.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until silky smooth with no lumps.

Step 8: Incorporate Gelatin and Orange Juice

Slowly pour in the cooled gelatin mixture and fresh orange juice to the cream cheese blend, stirring continuously to keep a smooth, even texture.

Step 9: Fold in Whipped Cream

Gently fold the whipped cream into the orange-flavored cream cheese mixture, careful not to deflate the fluffy texture you worked so hard for.

Step 10: Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour this heavenly filling over your chilled crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula for a perfectly uniform top.

Step 11: Chill until Set

Place the cheesecake back in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Patience here rewards you with a beautiful, firm texture that holds its shape when sliced.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, dollop whipped cream on top and sprinkle with extra orange zest or fresh orange slices for an inviting finish that highlights the fresh citrus flavor.

Step 13: Slice and Enjoy!

Now comes the best part: slice your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe and savor each creamy, citrusy bite that tastes just like a classic summer treat.

How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

Add a personal touch with bright orange zest or thin orange slices on top of the whipped cream. These not only look stunning but enhance the creamsicle theme with fresh, aromatic bursts that awaken the senses.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as a crisp mixed green salad or tropical fruit salad. The contrast of textures and flavors keeps the dessert as the star without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the cheesecake in individual clear glasses or mason jars layered with crushed graham crackers and a drizzle of orange syrup. This presentation makes it easy to impress guests or just enjoy your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe in a modern, shareable style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the creamy texture and fresh orange flavor. Properly stored, the cheesecake stays delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesecake for longer storage by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to keep the texture smooth and creamy, just like fresh.

Reheating

This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so no reheating is needed. Simply serve straight from the fridge for that cooling, refreshing sensation that makes creamy desserts so delightful on warmer days.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic and complements the creamsicle flavors well, you could experiment with crushed vanilla wafers or even a nut-based crust for some added texture and flavor diversity.

Do I have to use fresh orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is highly recommended because it offers the brightest and most natural citrus flavor. However, if fresh isn’t available, high-quality bottled orange juice can work in a pinch, just avoid any with added sugars or preservatives.

Is it possible to make this cheesecake vegan?

Making a vegan version would require substituting cream cheese and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives, such as cashew cream and coconut cream. You’ll also want to use a gelatin substitute like agar-agar to maintain the set texture.

Can I prepare this cheesecake a day ahead?

Yes! This cheesecake actually benefits from being made ahead as chilling overnight gives the flavors time to meld and the texture to become perfectly set and sliceable.

Why is it called a creamsicle cheesecake?

The name comes from the nostalgic creamsicle flavor profile—the classic orange and creamy vanilla combination reminiscent of the frozen orange creamsicle popsicles many of us loved growing up, now reimagined into a smooth cheesecake.

Final Thoughts

This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is a sunshine-filled slice of dessert heaven that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re new to cheesecake or a seasoned fan, this recipe invites you to enjoy a refreshing, creamy treat without fuss or baking stress. I can’t wait for you to try it and share your slices of bright, creamy joy!

Print