No-bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Category: Desserts

Treat yourself to a delicious no-bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake! This sweet and tangy dessert captures the essence of summer with its creamy orange flavor and graham cracker crust. Perfect for gatherings or a weeknight treat, it's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Save this recipe for a refreshing dessert that everyone will love!

This No-bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a refreshing and creamy treat! With a zesty orange flavor and a smooth, fluffy texture, it’s like summer on a plate!

I love making this dessert because it’s so easy—no oven needed! Plus, the kids go crazy for the orange taste. Perfect for hot days or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up! 🍊

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Graham cracker crumbs: These give your crust a sweet and crunchy base. If you can’t find them, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies can be a great replacement. They’ll add a slightly different flavor but still work well!

Cream cheese: It’s key for that rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese if you’re making it vegan.

Heavy whipping cream: This is essential for achieving a fluffy texture. For a lighter alternative, try using whipped coconut cream. Just remember, it might slightly change the flavor!

Orange juice and zest: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice works fine—just ensure it’s 100% juice without additives. The zest adds a burst of orange flavor, so don’t skip it!

Unflavored gelatin: This helps the cheesecake hold its shape. If you prefer not to use gelatin, you can skip it, but your cheesecake may be a little softer. In that case, be gentle when slicing!

How Do I Get The Cheesecake to Set Properly?

A common challenge with no-bake cheesecakes is getting them to set just right. The key is chilling the cheesecake long enough. Aim for at least 4-6 hours, but overnight is best for firming up the filling.

  • Make sure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature. This helps everything combine smoothly.
  • After whipping the cream into stiff peaks, fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture. This way, you keep the air and lightness for that fluffy texture.
  • If you add gelatin, mix it thoroughly into the orange layer, cooling it slightly before folding to prevent lumps.
  • After layering it into the crust, use a skewer or knife to swirl them gently together—it makes for a stunning marbled effect!

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 packet (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin (optional for extra stability)
  • 2 tbsp water (if using gelatin)

For Decoration:

  • Orange slices (for garnish)
  • Whipped cream (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious cheesecake requires about 20 minutes for preparation and needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 6 hours, or preferably overnight. It’s perfect for making ahead of time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until everything is well blended. Take your mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Now, pop the crust in the refrigerator while you make the filling.

2. Make the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix it until it’s nicely incorporated.

3. Incorporate the Cream:

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time; you want to keep it light and fluffy!

4. Add Orange Flavor:

Now, divide your filling mixture into two equal parts. In one half, fold in the orange juice and orange zest for a zesty kick! If you’re using gelatin for added stability, dissolve it in the 2 tablespoons of water and stir that into the orange mixture before folding.

5. Layer the Cheesecake:

Carefully alternate spoonfuls of the plain cream cheese mixture and the orange-flavored mixture into the crust you previously prepared. To create a beautiful marbled effect, take a knife or skewer and gently swirl the layers together.

6. Chill the Cheesecake:

Cover your cheesecake with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 4 to 6 hours, but for the best results, leave it overnight to ensure it’s perfectly set.

7. Decorate:

When you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Now it’s time to make it pretty! Garnish with fresh orange slices and dollops of whipped cream before serving to impress your guests.

8. Serve:

Slice your delightful cheesecake and enjoy the refreshing and creamy orange flavors. It’s a treat you won’t forget!

Can I Substitute the Graham Cracker Crust?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free graham crackers or ground almonds to make a nut crust. For a different flavor, try using crushed Oreos or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.

What If I Don’t Have Heavy Whipping Cream?

No problem! You can substitute with equal amounts of chilled coconut cream for a dairy-free version or use cream cheese for added thickness, but the texture will be a bit different. Just remember, whipping cream helps add lightness to the cheesecake!

How to Store Leftover Cheesecake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge before serving!

Can I Use Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice?

Yes, freshly squeezed orange juice will add a vibrant flavor to your cheesecake! Just make sure to strain it for any pulp or seeds for a smoother filling. It enhances the cheescake’s taste compared to bottled juice, giving it that fresh creamsicle vibe!

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