Description
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake offers a delightful and refreshing twist on classic cheesecake with bright orange flavors blended into a creamy, smooth filling. Perfect for summer or any occasion, it requires no baking and features a crisp graham cracker crust with a luscious orange gelatin-infused cream cheese filling, making it an easy yet elegant dessert.
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 (3-ounce) box orange gelatin mix
- 1/4 cup boiling water
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
Garnish (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Orange slices
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you make the filling.
- Dissolve the gelatin: In a small bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin mix in 1/4 cup of boiling water. Stir in 1/4 cup cold water and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. This will prevent clumps and ensure a smooth texture in the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice, mixing well until fully combined. Gradually stir in the cooled gelatin mixture, incorporating it evenly throughout.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, maintaining the airy texture that lightens the filling.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, until the filling is fully set and firm.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream and fresh orange slices for an attractive presentation and a boost of fresh citrus aroma.
Notes
- For a stronger orange flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract to the filling.
- You can substitute vanilla wafer crumbs for the graham cracker crumbs in the crust.
- This cheesecake stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when covered.
