Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
This Creamsicle Cheesecake is a luscious no-bake dessert that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the bright, refreshing flavors of fresh orange juice and zest. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, fluffy filling infused with vanilla and orange, this dessert is perfect for a light, citrusy treat that requires minimal effort and no oven time.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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 for garnish
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing thoroughly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually incorporate powdered sugar into the cream cheese, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
- 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 is light, fluffy, and well aerated.
- Prepare Gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Then gently heat it in the microwave for approximately 10 seconds or until fully dissolved, stirring to ensure no lumps.
- Combine Gelatin with Cheesecake Filling: Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin into the cheesecake mixture, stirring continuously to thoroughly incorporate it and maintain a smooth texture.
- Pour Filling into Crust: Carefully pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the pressed crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set firmly.
- Remove from Pan: Once set, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan to reveal the cheesecake.
- Garnish and Serve: Decorate with additional orange slices or zest if desired, then slice and serve chilled for a refreshing citrus dessert.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Fresh orange juice and zest add natural citrus brightness; canned juice may alter the flavor.
- Gelatin must be fully dissolved and evenly mixed to ensure proper setting.
- Use a 9-inch springform pan for best results and ease of removal.
- For a firmer texture, chill the cheesecake overnight.
- Optional garnishes add visual appeal and enhance the orange flavor.
Keywords: Creamsicle Cheesecake, no-bake cheesecake, orange cheesecake, citrus dessert, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake