If you’re searching for a dessert that will truly light up any table, the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a must-try. This dreamy, creamy treat strikes the perfect harmony between zesty citrus and lush, sweet cheesecake, all wrapped in a buttery graham cracker crust—no oven necessary! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of sunshine, this cheesecake will have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe. It’s bursting with nostalgic orange creamsicle flavor and made without fuss, making it a standout for both its brilliance and simplicity.

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how just a handful of straightforward ingredients come together to create something magical. Each component not only adds to the flavor, but also delivers on texture and those signature sunny layers that make this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake truly unforgettable.

Graham cracker crumbs: Offer a classic, slightly crunchy base that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens and binds the crust, ensuring it holds together when sliced.
Unsalted butter (melted): Helps the graham crumbs form a perfect, press-in crust with rich flavor.
Cream cheese (softened): The creamy backbone of your cheesecake with a tangy kick; softening makes mixing effortless.
Powdered sugar: Adds silky sweetness and helps to keep the filling smooth and fluffy.
Vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle warmth that highlights both the orange and creamy elements.
Zest of 1 orange: Brings real citrus aroma and brilliant color to each bite.
Orange juice: Boosts freshness and amplifies the authentic orange flavor.
Whipped topping (thawed): Lightens the cheesecake, making it airy and easy to slice despite being decadently rich.
Orange gelatin mix: Instantly delivers that nostalgic creamsicle hue and flavor punch while helping the filling set firmly.
Boiling water: Essential for dissolving the gelatin completely so your cheesecake sets without lumps.
Cold water: Quickly brings the gelatin mixture to a safe temperature so it blends seamlessly into the filling.
Whipped cream and orange slices (optional, for garnish): Garnishes make every slice look as irresistible as it tastes!

How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

The first step to cheesecake perfection is building a sturdy, flavorful base. Combine your graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand, which helps them press together beautifully. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan, pressing firmly with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to make an even crust. Pop the pan in the refrigerator so it chills and sets up while you tackle the filling.

Step 2: Dissolve the Orange Gelatin

In a small bowl, pour the orange gelatin mix over 1/4 cup of boiling water. Stir until the powder is completely dissolved, ensuring no grainy bits remain. Blend in 1/4 cup cold water to cool things off and set the whole thing aside. It needs to reach room temperature before joining the rest of the ingredients, or else it might make the filling seize up— patience pays off here!

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Orange Filling

Grab a large mixing bowl and beat your softened cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth. This is the foundation for that signature cheesecake texture, so don’t rush! Next, blend in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice. This aromatic combination lays down bold citrus notes and irresistible creaminess. Finally, stir in your cooled orange gelatin mixture; this will lock in that popsicle-orange color and let the filling set up just right.

Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Now comes the magic touch: gently fold the thawed whipped topping into your cream cheese mixture. Take your time with this step and use a spatula, so you don’t lose any of the airiness that gives No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake its signature cloudlike texture. You should end up with a perfectly blended, billowy, and slightly pastel-orange batter.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Pour the filling over your chilled crust and use a spatula to smooth out the top for a neat, bakery-worthy look. The hardest part of this whole process? Waiting! Cover the pan and let the cheesecake refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight if you can. This time in the fridge ensures the cheesecake is firm enough to slice and serve in gorgeous, tall wedges.

How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Garnishes

When it comes time for the big reveal, dress up your cheesecake with generous swirls of whipped cream and vibrant wedges or slices of fresh orange. Not only does this complement those citrusy notes, but it also makes the presentation downright irresistible. You can even sprinkle extra orange zest over the top for a pop of color and fragrance.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake shines on its own, but if you want to build a dessert spread, serve it alongside a sparkling citrus salad or a platter of mixed fresh berries. The crispness and tartness will balance the creamy sweetness of your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. A cup of light herbal tea or a flute of Prosecco never hurts either!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party spin, try making mini cheesecakes in individual mason jars—perfect for picnics or summer gatherings. You can also cut the set cheesecake into bite-sized cubes and skewer with toothpicks for delightful dessert appetizers. No matter how you slice it, your guests will marvel at the playful creamsicle twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container before storing in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to four days without losing any of its signature creaminess or zesty flavor.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes surprisingly well! Cut individual slices, wrap each in plastic wrap, and then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight—the texture remains smooth and dreamy.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake dessert, there’s no need for reheating. If your cheesecake has been frozen, a gentle overnight thaw in the fridge is all it needs to be ready to serve straight from the refrigerator.

FAQs

Can I make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s highly recommended to make it the night before you plan to serve. This gives the filling plenty of time to set up for neat, clean slices, making your dessert worry-free on the day of your gathering.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a standard 9-inch pie plate as a substitute. The only difference is that serving will require a delicate hand to scoop out neat slices, but the taste and texture will be just as delicious.

Is there a way to boost the orange flavor?

If you want an extra orange punch, add 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract to the filling along with the zest and juice. The result is a more pronounced, nostalgic creamsicle flavor.

Can I swap whipped topping for homemade whipped cream?

Yes! If you prefer homemade, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold it in gently in place of the whipped topping for a fresher, richer flavor.

Is No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake gluten-free?

It can be! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers (or another gluten-free cookie) for the crust, and double-check that your gelatin and whipped topping are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts wow-factor and straightforward ease, this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. Serve it up at your next summer party or whenever you need a taste of sunshine—your friends and family will thank you for introducing them to this creamy, dreamy classic!

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing and creamy goodness of this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. This delightful dessert combines the tangy zest of oranges with the richness of cream cheese, all atop a sweet graham cracker crust.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Filling:

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup orange juice
1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
1 (3-ounce) box orange gelatin mix
1/4 cup boiling water
1/4 cup cold water

Garnish:

Whipped cream and orange slices (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a springform pan.
Prepare the Filling: Dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Beat cream cheese, then add sugar, vanilla, orange zest, juice, and gelatin mixture. Fold in whipped topping.
Assemble: Pour filling over crust. Chill for at least 6 hours.
Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream and orange slices before serving.