If you’re craving a dessert that brings back all those nostalgic summer vibes without turning on your oven, you simply must try this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a dreamy combination of creamy cheesecake and bright, zesty orange flavors that taste just like that childhood favorite ice cream treat. Silky smooth, refreshingly tangy, and with a buttery graham cracker crust to ground it all, this cheesecake is a stunning crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion or just an indulgent afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be humble and simple, but they work in perfect harmony to create the luscious, airy texture and vibrant orange hue that make this cheesecake irresistible. Each element builds on the next — from the crisp crust to the zesty jello layer — giving you a balanced blend of flavors and textures.
- Orange jello (3 ounce box): The bright citrus base that gives this cheesecake its signature creamsicle flavor and cheerful color.
- Boiling water (1 cup): Necessary to dissolve the jello powder, ensuring it sets properly and blends smoothly.
- Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups, about 14 sheets): The crunchy, slightly sweet foundation for the crust, providing great contrast in texture.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Binds the graham crackers into a sturdy crust while adding richness and buttery flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring the sweetness doesn’t become one-dimensional.
- Cream cheese (2 blocks, 8 ounces each, softened): The creamy, tangy heart of the cheesecake, delivering that classic velvety texture.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups, divided): Sweetens the cheesecake filling in stages, helping to achieve smoothness and no grittiness.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Whipped to fluffy perfection, it lightens the cheesecake filling and adds richness.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth that balances the citrus with mellow aroma.
- Orange zest (from 1 orange, optional): Gives an extra punch of fresh orange flavor and a lovely speckled look.
How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Orange Jello
Begin by whisking the orange jello powder into boiling water until completely dissolved. This step is crucial for getting a smooth gelatin base that sets nicely without lumps. Allow the mixture to cool fully for about 30 minutes so it’s ready to combine with other ingredients without melting them.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Crust
Spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper on the bottom and sides. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly against the bottom and slightly up the sides of your pan to form an even crust. Pop it into the freezer for at least 30 minutes to help it set firmly.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar until the texture is silky smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. This ensures there are no lumps and your filling will be perfectly velvety.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional orange zest until it forms stiff peaks. This whipped cream will lighten and elevate your cheesecake with airy texture and a sweet, citrusy aroma.
Step 5: Fold and Combine Mixtures
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined, taking care not to deflate the lightness. Next, fold the remaining whipped cream into the cooled orange jello mixture. These two luscious mixtures will create the gorgeous layers of your cheesecake.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill the Cheesecake
Alternate spooning the cream cheese and orange jello mixtures into the prepared crust, creating swirled layers. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the layers together for a marbled effect. Cover the pan tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight, which allows the layers to fully set and the flavors to meld deliciously.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. For a pretty finishing touch, pipe dollops of whipped cream around the edges and garnish with fresh orange slices if desired. Then slice and prepare for admiring those beautiful layers before digging in!
How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
This cheesecake loves a little extra flair on the plate. Fresh orange slices add burst of natural tang and vibrant color while dollops of whipped cream provide creaminess that complements every bite. A sprinkle of orange zest or even a few edible flowers can also turn your dessert into a showstopper effortlessly.
Side Dishes
While this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe shines perfectly on its own, pairing it with a light fruit salad, a cup of hot tea, or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon can round out your dessert experience beautifully without overpowering the delicate orange flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in clear glasses or mini jars for an elegant, casual presentation that showcases the swirled layers. You can also layer the filling over a simple cookie base for cheesecake parfaits or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes, making it perfect for parties or summer gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe refrigerated, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a cake dome to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days — perfect for savoring little bites throughout the week!
Freezing
If you want to stretch out the joy, this cheesecake freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Store for up to 1 month. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat since this cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled for its cool, creamy texture. Just take it straight from the fridge or thawed freezer storage and serve as is for that authentic creamsicle refreshment.
FAQs
Can I use sugar substitutes in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the powdered sugar for a similar amount of your preferred powdered sweetener, such as powdered erythritol, though the texture and sweetness level may vary slightly. Just ensure it’s a fine powder to maintain the smooth texture of the filling.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use a regular 9-inch round cake pan lined with parchment paper, but removing the cheesecake may be a bit trickier. To help, chill the crust and filling thoroughly and loosen the edges carefully with a knife before slicing.
Can I make this cheesecake vegan or dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, you would need to substitute cream cheese, heavy cream, and butter with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese, coconut cream, and dairy-free margarine. The texture and flavor will change somewhat, but it can still be delicious with some experimentation.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill?
For best results, refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. This gives the jello and filling time to set firmly so you get clean slices and that perfect creamy texture.
Can I use a different flavor of jello?
Absolutely! While orange is classic for this creamsicle-style cheesecake, other fruity jello flavors like lemon or strawberry can create delicious variations. Just be sure to adjust any zest or extract accordingly to complement the new flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe — it’s like a little slice of summer wrapped up in a creamy, dreamy dessert. It’s easy enough for everyday treats but beautiful enough to serve for special occasions. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you will enjoy eating it, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes for years to come!
Print
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a refreshing and creamy dessert combining tangy orange gelatin and smooth cream cheese layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion, it requires no oven baking and sets beautifully in the fridge, offering a delightful citrus twist reminiscent of classic creamsicles.
Ingredients
Orange Gelatin
- 1 (3 ounce) box orange jello
- 1 cup boiling water
Crust
- 2 cups Graham Cracker crumbs (about 14 sheets)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 (8 ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 1⁄2 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the orange gel: Combine the orange jello powder with boiling water in a heat-proof bowl. Whisk thoroughly until dissolved. Set aside to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
- Prepare the pan: Spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and pinch of salt until well combined. Press the mixture evenly onto the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until stiff peaks form.
- Combine mixtures: Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until incorporated. Then fold the remaining whipped cream into the cooled orange jello, blending gently.
- Assemble cheesecake: Spoon alternating layers of the cream cheese mixture and jello mixture into the prepared crust. Use a butter knife to swirl the two mixtures together for a marbled effect.
- Chill to set: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set completely.
- Serve: Remove the sides of the springform pan carefully. Optionally, pipe whipped cream dollops around the edges and garnish with fresh orange slices. Slice and enjoy your refreshing cheesecake!
Notes
- For best results, allow the jello to cool fully before folding into the whipped cream to avoid melting.
- Freezing the crust before adding the filling helps it stay firm and prevent sogginess.
- You can garnish with additional orange zest or fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- This dessert is perfect for summer and can be made a day ahead for convenience.
- Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the best creamy texture.
