No Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

If you're looking for a refreshing dessert that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious, this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is the perfect treat! It combines the tangy, citrus flavor of orange with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all without the hassle of baking. Whether you're preparing for a family gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. Read on to discover how to make this delightful dessert step by step and enjoy it with your loved ones.

What is a No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake?

A No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a smooth and velvety dessert that blends the iconic flavor of orange creamsicles with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. Unlike traditional cheesecakes that require baking, this version sets in the refrigerator, making it a hassle-free dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The flavors of zesty orange, creamy vanilla, and a buttery graham cracker crust make this cheesecake a nostalgic yet sophisticated treat. This recipe is especially ideal for warmer months when you don’t want to turn on the oven, yet still want a refreshing, indulgent dessert.

Ingredients List for No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Before diving into the process, gather the following ingredients to make the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. This list covers the graham cracker crust, the creamy cheesecake filling, and the orange-flavored topping.

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 packet of unflavored gelatin (optional, for extra firmness)

For the Orange Topping:

• ½ cup orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional, for stronger flavor)
• Orange food coloring (optional, for a vibrant look)

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by using substitutions and variations! Here are some ideas to tweak the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake according to your taste or dietary preferences:

• Graham Cracker Substitution: If you don't have graham crackers, digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or ginger snaps can be used to make the crust.
• Cream Cheese Alternative: For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese or a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
• Orange Juice Variation: Swap out freshly squeezed orange juice for orange concentrate if you prefer a stronger citrus flavor.
• Gelatin-Free Option: If you want a vegetarian version or prefer not to use gelatin, you can skip it and let the cheesecake set naturally in the fridge.
• Additional Flavors: Add a splash of Grand Marnier or another orange liqueur for a more sophisticated taste.
• Toppings: Instead of the orange topping, try adding whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a drizzle of chocolate for extra indulgence.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions for preparing the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. This process is straightforward and requires minimal cooking, making it perfect for both novice and experienced home bakers.

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Begin by crushing your graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this in a food processor or by placing the crackers in a ziplock bag and using a rolling pin to crush them.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan (about 9 inches in diameter) to create the crust. Make sure the crust is even and tightly packed.
4. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and continue to beat until well incorporated.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and freshly squeezed orange juice. If you're using gelatin for a firmer texture, dissolve the gelatin in warm water and stir it into the mixture at this point.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
5. Pour the filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours to set, or preferably overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Orange Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes glossy.
3. If desired, add orange extract and a few drops of orange food coloring for a more intense orange flavor and color.
4. Let the topping cool to room temperature, then gently spread it over the set cheesecake.
5. Refrigerate the cheesecake for an additional hour to allow the topping to firm up.

How to Cook No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Since this is a no-bake recipe, the "cooking" mainly involves preparing, assembling, and chilling the ingredients. Here’s a brief summary of how the process works:

1. Prepare the crust: Crush the graham crackers, mix with butter and sugar, then press into a pan.
2. Make the filling: Mix cream cheese, sugar, orange juice, zest, and whipped cream until fluffy.
3. Add the topping: Cook the orange juice and cornstarch to make a glossy topping, then spread over the cheesecake.
4. Chill and serve: Let the cheesecake set in the fridge, slice, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Filling: Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Overmixing can deflate the whipped cream, resulting in a denser texture.
• Not Letting the Cheesecake Set: Give the cheesecake plenty of time to set in the fridge (at least 4 hours or overnight). Rushing this step may result in a runny filling.
• Using Warm Topping: Make sure the orange topping has cooled to room temperature before spreading it on the cheesecake. Adding hot topping can melt the cheesecake filling.
• Skipping the Gelatin: If you want a firmer cheesecake, don’t forget the gelatin. Without it, the cheesecake will be softer and may not hold its shape as well.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake, presentation can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert looks as good as it tastes.

How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

1. Once the cheesecake has fully set, carefully remove the springform pan and transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate.
2. Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake. For clean slices, dip the knife in warm water and wipe it between cuts.
3. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

• Garnish with Orange Slices: Add fresh orange slices or thin orange wedges around the edges of the cheesecake for a vibrant, fruity presentation.
• Zest on Top: Sprinkle a bit of extra orange zest over the top of the cheesecake to enhance the citrus aroma and flavor.
• Drizzle Chocolate: For an elegant twist, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top of the cheesecake for a stunning contrast.
• Decorative Piping: Use a piping bag to create whipped cream swirls around the edges or the center of the cheesecake for a professional look.

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe Tips

• Chilling is Key: The longer you let the cheesecake chill, the better it will set. Overnight chilling is ideal.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide a much brighter and more authentic flavor compared to bottled juice or extracts.
• Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made 1-2 days ahead of time, making it perfect for parties or busy occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze a No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

2. How long does No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake last in the fridge?

This cheesecake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container.

3. Can I use store-bought orange juice?

While fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use store-bought juice if needed. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugar.

4. What can I use instead of gelatin?

You can use agar-agar, a vegetarian alternative to gelatin, or simply omit it if you prefer a softer cheesecake.

5. Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or graham crackers to make a gluten-free version of this dessert.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is the perfect combination of citrusy sweetness and creamy richness. Its no-bake preparation makes it incredibly convenient for any occasion, and the light, refreshing flavor is perfect for a variety of palates. Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a delightful dessert, this cheesecake will not disappoint. Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and indulge in a slice of this creamy, dreamy orange-flavored dessert today!

Print