Imagine a slice of dreamy, sun-kissed nostalgia—the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is your ticket to dessert heaven. Inspired by the classic creamsicle pops from childhood summers, this treat combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky orange-infused cream cheese filling, and generous clouds of whipped cream. Every bite is a bright and creamy symphony that brings joy to both kids and grown-ups, and the best part? You won’t need to turn on the oven! Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or whenever your sweet tooth calls, this irresistible cheesecake is simple, stress-free, and absolutely unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple, using ingredients that each bring something special to the table. The mix of citrus, creaminess, and crunch ensures every forkful is pure joy—here’s how each element works its magic:
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide that classic, sturdy cheesecake base and a subtle honeyed flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together and gives the crust a rich, golden finish.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the crust.
- Cream cheese, softened: Delivers a creamy, tangy foundation for the filling.
- Powdered sugar: Ensures the filling is smooth and evenly sweet without grittiness.
- Heavy whipping cream, chilled: Whips up light and fluffy, adding that airy, mousse-like texture.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds a homey aroma.
- Orange gelatin: Infuses the filling with citrus flavor and helps it set perfectly.
- Boiling water: Dissolves the gelatin for a seamless, lump-free texture.
- Cold water: Cools down the gelatin, making it safe to mix into the creamy filling.
- Orange zest: Intensifies the fresh orange fragrance and adds vibrant color.
- Orange extract (optional): Maximizes that zesty orange pop for true creamsicle fans.
- Whipped cream and orange slices for garnish: Bring a special finish with extra creaminess and a burst of color on top.
How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Create the Crust
Begin by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium bowl. Mix everything together until the texture feels like damp sand—the butter will help the crumbs hold their shape. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed and compact; a measuring cup works wonders for this job. Pop the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the creamy filling.
Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture
With your crust chilling, grab a large mixing bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps. Take your time here, as a silky base makes all the difference for that signature No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe texture.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate, chilled bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This luxurious whipped cream is what gives your cheesecake its cloudlike lift and smooth bite.
Step 4: Fold and Combine
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula, using smooth, swooping motions so you don’t deflate the air. This step is all about patience and care—over-mixing can make the filling heavy rather than light and mousse-like.
Step 5: Dissolve Gelatin and Add Flavors
Dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water, stirring thoroughly to avoid any pesky lumps. Once fully dissolved, stir in the cold water to help bring the mixture back down to room temperature. This is essential! If your gelatin is too hot, it can curdle the creamy filling. Let it cool, then gently fold it into your cream cheese/fluffy cream mixture along with the orange zest and, if you’re feeling bold, a splash of orange extract. This is what gives the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe its unmistakable creamsicle flavor.
Step 6: Fill and Chill
Pour your orange-kissed cheesecake filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight is even better) so it firms up into perfect, sliceable velvet.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, heap on billowy whipped cream and add a few bright orange slices for a truly stunning finish. Get ready to wow your guests as you reveal a dessert that’s every bit as beautiful as it is delicious!
How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Dress up your cheesecake with swirling peaks of whipped cream and gleaming segments of fresh orange or tangerine. For an extra pop of color, sprinkle a bit more orange zest on top. A few sprigs of fresh mint or white chocolate curls add a special touch that turns each slice into dessert artistry.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake shines on its own, but if you’d like to round out dessert, consider pairing it with a bowl of macerated berries, a crisp fruit salad, or a simple citrusy sorbet. Lighter sides balance the richness of the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe and add bright flavors to each plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable look at any party, try creating mini individual cheesecakes in small jars or ramekins—they’re picnic-perfect and easy to serve. Or, if you’re celebrating, serve wedges on vibrant plates for contrast, and scatter colorful edible flowers around the platter for a showstopping centerpiece everyone will want to photograph.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days, keeping its decadent texture and bright flavor fresh.
Freezing
The No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe also freezes like a dream! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (without garnishes) in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator—no need to re-bake or risk a soggy crust.
Reheating
No reheating is required for this chilled dessert. Simply remove your cheesecake from the fridge or freezer, allow it to soften a bit if needed, and enjoy each irresistible bite cold and creamy—just like a classic creamsicle treat.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Yes, you can substitute with your favorite whipped topping if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience. But for the best flavor and texture, freshly whipped heavy cream remains the gold standard.
What’s the best way to zest an orange for this recipe?
Use a microplane or fine grater to collect only the orange (not white) part of the peel—this delivers pure citrus aroma and no bitterness. Zest your orange right over the bowl so you capture every last aromatic oil.
Can I use a different fruit flavor instead of orange?
Absolutely! Try lemon, lime, or even raspberry gelatin and zest to put your own spin on the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe—just swap out the gelatin and matching zest or extract accordingly.
Why does my filling look runny before chilling?
It’s normal for the filling to seem loose before chilling. The gelatin needs time in the fridge to set up and give your cheesecake its firm, sliceable consistency. Be patient—it’s worth the wait!
Do I need a springform pan?
While a springform pan makes for easy slicing and a showy presentation, you can absolutely use a deep pie plate, an 8×8-inch baking dish, or individual jars—just line with parchment if you’d like easy removal.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is everything you love about summer in a single, creamy bite—refreshing, rich, and unbelievably easy. Give it a try and see just how quickly it disappears from the dessert table. Your friends and family are in for a citrusy, creamy treat they’ll talk about all year long!
Print
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing and creamy delight of this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. With a zesty orange flavor and velvety smooth texture, this dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion, especially during the summer.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (3 ounces) orange gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Orange slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and refrigerate.
- Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar. Whip heavy cream and vanilla until stiff. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture.
- Prepare the Gelatin: Dissolve orange gelatin in boiling water, then add cold water. Cool to room temperature.
- Combine: Gently fold gelatin, orange zest, and orange extract into cream cheese mixture.
- Chill: Pour filling over crust and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream and orange slices before serving.
Notes
- For a creamier flavor, use half cream cheese and half mascarpone.
- Ensure the gelatin mixture is cooled before adding to prevent curdling.
- This cheesecake freezes well—thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
