Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

This Creamsicle Cheesecake is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the bright flavors of fresh orange with creamy cheesecake. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm days when you want something sweet without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 envelope (about 2 tablespoons) unflavored gelatin
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Additional orange slices or zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix thoroughly, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
2. Step 2: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese, mixing well to combine.
4. Step 4: Add the heavy whipping cream, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom. Then heat gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds until fully dissolved.
6. Step 6: Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin into the cheesecake mixture, stirring until well incorporated.
7. Step 7: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
8. Step 8: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until set.
9. Step 9: Once set, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
10. Step 10: Garnish with additional orange slices or zest if desired, then serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a more intense orange flavor, add a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the filling.
• You can substitute crushed vanilla wafers for graham cracker crumbs in the crust for a different texture.
• If you prefer a firmer texture, use a bit more gelatin or chill the cheesecake longer.
• Try adding a layer of marmalade between the crust and filling for a zesty surprise.

Storage

Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. This cheesecake is not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake without gelatin?

Gelatin helps the cheesecake set properly without baking. If you skip it, the filling may remain too soft and not hold its shape well.

Can I use frozen orange juice instead of fresh?

Fresh orange juice gives the best flavor, but frozen juice will work in a pinch. Just be sure it’s fully thawed and strained to remove any pulp.

Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 183 reviews

This refreshing No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cream cheese and whipped cream with the bright, citrusy flavor of fresh orange juice and zest. Set on a buttery graham cracker crust, this light and fluffy dessert is perfect for warm-weather gatherings and requires no baking, making it quick and easy to prepare.

• Author: liam
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 envelope (about 2 tablespoons) unflavored gelatin
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Garnish (optional)

• Additional orange slices or zest

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until thoroughly combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
2. Soften the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
3. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese, mixing until fully incorporated and silky.
4. Incorporate Cream and Flavorings: Add the heavy whipping cream, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined.
5. Prepare Gelatin: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Then, gently heat the gelatin mixture in the microwave for approximately 10 seconds until fully dissolved.
6. Combine Gelatin with Cheesecake Mixture: Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin mixture into the cheesecake filling, stirring continuously until it is evenly incorporated.
7. Pour Filling into Crust: Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
8. Chill to Set: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to fully set.
9. Remove from Pan: Once set, carefully release and remove the sides of the springform pan to reveal the cheesecake.
10. Garnish and Serve: Decorate the cheesecake with additional orange slices or zest, if desired, before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest.
• Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth mixture.
• If gelatin is not dissolved completely, the cheesecake may not set properly.
• This cheesecake is best served cold and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and heavy cream alternatives, keeping in mind the texture may be affected.

Keywords: Creamsicle cheesecake, no-bake cheesecake, orange cheesecake, no-bake dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust cheesecake