If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly captures the sunny, nostalgic flavor of classic orange creamsicles, then you have to try this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe. It’s refreshing, creamy, and has that dreamy citrusy brightness that instantly lifts your spirits. Plus, it’s completely no-bake, meaning you get all the richness and texture of cheesecake without ever turning on the oven. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to for gatherings or a special weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that luscious texture, bright orange flavor, and creamy sweetness that make this dessert so memorable.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of your crust, providing a buttery crunch and subtle sweetness.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together and adds a rich, smooth taste to the base.
- Cream cheese, softened: The heart of the cheesecake’s creamy tanginess and smooth texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling gently without adding any graininess.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into the mixture, it adds airy lightness and body.
- Fresh orange juice: Imparts bright, natural citrus flavor that makes this recipe shine.
- Orange zest: Packs in the orange aroma and a bit of zest punch.
- Vanilla extract: Balances the tang with a warm, familiar note.
- Unflavored gelatin: The secret ingredient that helps the cheesecake set perfectly without baking.
- Cold water: To bloom the gelatin, ensuring it blends seamlessly in the filling.
How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This creates the sturdy but tender base that will support the creamy filling perfectly.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until completely smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and continue mixing well until you get a silky texture—this ensures every bite is indulgent and sweet without feeling grainy.
Step 3: Add Cream and Citrus
Next, incorporate the heavy whipping cream, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture. Beat these ingredients together until the filling becomes fluffy and light, capturing that iconic creamsicle creaminess with a citrus twist.
Step 4: Bloom and Dissolve Gelatin
In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes so it “blooms.” Then, gently heat this gelatin mixture in the microwave for a few seconds until it fully dissolves but isn’t too hot. This step is crucial for setting the cheesecake without baking.
Step 5: Combine Gelatin with Filling
Slowly stir the dissolved gelatin into the cream cheese filling. Make sure to mix thoroughly so that the gelatin is evenly distributed, ensuring a smooth, stable set once chilled.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Pour the luscious filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling time allows the cheesecake to firm up beautifully with a creamy texture that’s perfect for slicing.
Step 7: Serve with Fresh Oranges
When you’re ready to enjoy, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and garnish the top with fresh orange slices. This adds a bright, fresh element that complements the cheesecake’s zesty flavor and creates an inviting presentation.
How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh orange slices are a classic choice, adding a burst of color and a juicy contrast to every bite. You can also sprinkle a little extra orange zest on top or add a few sprigs of mint for a pop of green freshness. To ramp up the indulgence, a drizzle of white chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream makes it extra special.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light and fruity sides. A mixed berry salad or a simple bowl of fresh raspberries makes a perfect counterpoint to the creamy, citrusy flavors. If you want something richer, consider serving it alongside a cup of dark roast coffee or a tangy sparkling lemonade.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try serving mini versions in individual glass cups with layers of crushed graham crackers at the bottom. You can also decorate the top with candied orange peel or even a sprinkle of toasted almonds for an unexpected crunch. Serve on a bright, colorful platter to highlight those lovely orange hues and make your dessert table pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator. Wrapped well, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days without losing any texture or flavor. It’s always best to keep it chilled until serving to maintain its perfect, creamy consistency.
Freezing
You can freeze this cheesecake for up to 1 month. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture—avoid microwaving to keep that creamy, luscious mouthfeel intact.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold and shouldn’t be reheated. If it has been frozen and thawed, just allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing to soften slightly for a perfect serving experience.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought orange juice for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Fresh orange juice is ideal for the brightest flavor, but good-quality store-bought juice works just fine and will still give you that delightful orange zestiness.
What can I substitute for gelatin if I want a vegetarian version?
Agar-agar is a great vegetarian substitute, but keep in mind it behaves differently and may require adjustments in quantity and setting time. Follow the agar-agar package instructions carefully for best results.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes! While graham cracker crust is classic, you can experiment with crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even gingersnap cookies to add different flavor notes to the base.
Is it possible to make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
Yes, but the springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake cleanly. If you don’t have one, line a regular cake pan with parchment paper so you can lift it out more easily after chilling.
How long does it take for the cheesecake to set properly?
Chilling for at least 4 hours is necessary, but overnight is recommended for the firmest, best texture. This allows the gelatin to fully do its magic and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is such a fun and flavorful way to celebrate the flavors of summer while enjoying the creamy comfort of cheesecake without any heat from the oven. It’s simple to make, totally delicious, and always gets rave reviews when I bring it to the table. I truly hope you have as much joy making and eating it as I do sharing it with you—give it a whirl, and turn your next dessert moment into something truly special.
Print
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a refreshing, creamy dessert that perfectly balances tangy fresh orange juice and zesty citrus flavors with a smooth cream cheese filling on a buttery graham cracker crust. It requires no baking and is set by gelatin, making it a quick and impressive treat perfect for warm weather or any celebration.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, thoroughly mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Set aside.
- Beat the cream cheese: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the wet ingredients: Incorporate the heavy whipping cream, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture. Beat everything together until the filling becomes light and fluffy.
- Prepare the gelatin: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. Then, gently dissolve the gelatin by microwaving in short bursts until fully melted, being careful not to overheat.
- Combine gelatin with filling: Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin into the cheesecake filling while stirring continuously to ensure it is evenly mixed.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the completed filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top evenly. Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set completely.
- Serve: Once set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and garnish with fresh orange slices for a beautiful and flavorful finish before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor; bottled juice can alter the taste.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overheat the gelatin when dissolving, as it can lose its setting properties.
- For a firmer cheesecake, you can increase the gelatin slightly to 2 ½ tablespoons.
- The cheesecake keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
