No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a bright, citrusy dessert that captures the nostalgic flavor of the classic creamsicle treat in creamy cheesecake form. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, orange-infused filling, this dessert is refreshing, easy to prepare, and perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you need a make-ahead treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This no-bake cheesecake combines convenience with indulgence. There’s no need to turn on the oven, and the preparation is straightforward with just a few mixing steps. The combination of orange juice, zest, and gelatin gives the cheesecake its signature creamsicle flavor, while the creamy filling offers a rich contrast to the crisp graham cracker crust. It’s an ideal dessert for dinner parties, holidays, or simple family meals.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
¼ cup orange gelatin (Jell-O)
1 teaspoon orange extract
directions
Prepare the crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and evenly coated. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish to form a firm crust. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Make the filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Whip the cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Incorporate the orange flavor:
Gently fold in the orange juice, orange zest, orange gelatin, and orange extract until the filling is evenly mixed and smooth.
Assemble and chill:
Pour the orange cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the cheesecake is firm and set.
Serve:
Garnish with extra orange zest or whipped cream before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 8 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Variations
Tropical Version: Add a touch of coconut extract or shredded coconut to the crust or filling.
Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual portions using a muffin tin and cupcake liners.
Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for a richer base.
Layered Look: Pour half the filling, chill until slightly firm, then add a second layer with extra gelatin for a two-tone appearance.
Low-Sugar Alternative: Use a sugar substitute and sugar-free gelatin to reduce calories.
storage/reheating
Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, it is best served chilled. This cheesecake can also be frozen—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This dessert is not suitable for reheating.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Yes, but fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor and brightness.
Is it necessary to use orange gelatin?
Yes, the gelatin helps the cheesecake set and enhances the orange flavor. You can substitute with unflavored gelatin and a bit more orange extract if needed.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dessert is ideal for making the day before and refrigerating overnight.
Do I need a springform pan?
A springform pan makes serving easier, but a pie dish or regular round pan can work as well. Just be sure to chill the crust firmly.
Can I use whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Yes, whipped topping can be used for convenience, though freshly whipped cream offers a richer texture.
Is this cheesecake overly sweet?
No, the sweetness is balanced by the citrus elements, creating a refreshing, not overpowering flavor.
What if I don’t have orange extract?
You can omit it or use a bit more zest and juice to strengthen the orange flavor.
Can I make this without a crust?
Yes, though the crust adds texture. For a crustless version, simply chill the filling in ramekins or cups.
How do I know the cheesecake is set?
It should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when sliced. Chilling overnight yields the best results.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the texture and richness of the final dish.
Conclusion
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a delightful, citrusy dessert that blends creamy textures with a nostalgic flavor. It’s easy to prepare, requires no oven, and delivers impressive results that are perfect for entertaining or treating yourself. Whether served plain or topped with whipped cream, this cheesecake is sure to brighten any table.
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a refreshing, citrusy dessert that’s perfect for summer. With a creamy orange-flavored filling and graham cracker crust, it delivers all the nostalgic flavor of a creamsicle in cheesecake form—no oven required!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup sugar
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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16 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup fresh orange juice
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1 tablespoon orange zest
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1/4 cup orange gelatin (Jell-O)
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1 teaspoon orange extract
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until evenly combined.
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Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
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In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.
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Fold in orange juice, zest, orange gelatin, and orange extract until well combined.
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Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.
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Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
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Garnish with orange zest or whipped cream before serving, if desired.
Notes
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Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth texture.
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Use fresh orange juice for best flavor.
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This dessert is perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
