If you’ve been craving a dessert that bursts with bright citrusy flavor yet stays creamy and dreamy without heating up the kitchen, this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend! Imagine the nostalgic taste of a classic creamsicle transformed into a luscious, velvety cheesecake that requires zero baking but delivers all the indulgence. It’s the perfect balance of tangy fresh orange, smooth cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you want a refreshing summer treat or a delightful anytime dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to hit all the right notes and impress your friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is delightfully simple because it calls for basic, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own magic to the final creation. Every element plays a vital role—from the crunch and structure of the crust to the creamy, citrus-infused filling that makes each bite heavenly.
- Graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits (200 g / 2 cups): The base for your crust, providing a perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
- Melted butter (75 g / 5 tbsp): Binds the crust crumbs together and adds a rich buttery taste.
- Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering.
- Cream cheese, softened (500 g / 2 cups): The creamy heart of the cheesecake, giving it that silky texture you’ll love.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Smoothly sweetens the filling and blends easily with the cream cheese.
- Heavy whipping cream, chilled (1 cup): Whipped to stiff peaks to lighten and fluff the filling perfectly.
- Fresh orange juice (1/3 cup): Adds zesty citrus brightness that makes this cheesecake a true creamsicle delight.
- Orange zest of 1 orange: Intensifies the orange aroma and flavor for that extra zing.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavors and adds depth to the filling.
- Orange extract (1/2 tsp, optional): Boosts the orange flavor if you want a stronger creamsicle note.
- Orange food coloring (optional): Gives a fun, vibrant orange hue reminiscent of a classic creamsicle.
- Whipped cream, orange zest or slices (for garnish): To add the finishing touch and elevate the presentation.
How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl until the texture feels like moist sand. This simple combination sets the stage for your cheesecake’s foundation. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. The key here is to pack it well so the crust holds together perfectly after chilling. Pop it into the refrigerator to chill and firm up while you prepare the luscious filling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth—no lumps allowed! Then add the powdered sugar, blending until it’s all incorporated and the mixture is silky. Slowly add the fresh orange juice, vibrant orange zest, vanilla extract, and, if using, the orange extract. This step infuses your filling with that quintessential creamsicle flavor. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate it. If you want that classic orange color, mix in a few drops of orange food coloring to bring it to life.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Pour the bright, fluffy filling over the chilled crust, gently smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 to 8 hours, or even better, overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the cheesecake to fully set, creating that perfect creamy texture that holds its shape beautifully when sliced.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once your cheesecake is set and ready, carefully release the springform pan sides. It’s time to dress it up with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh orange zest or thin orange slices. Slice it up, serve it chilled, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy from this refreshing and creamy treat!
How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes can turn your cheesecake from delicious to dazzling. Fresh whipped cream adds luxurious creaminess while bright orange zest enhances the citrus aroma and visual appeal. Thin orange slices or segments not only look beautiful but elevate the orange flavor, making each bite a citrus celebration.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with lighter side accompaniments. A crisp fruit salad, berries tossed with a bit of mint, or simply an herbal tea work beautifully to balance the indulgence without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this cheesecake in individual clear cups layered with crumbled crust and orange segments for a playful parfait look. Or swirl some orange marmalade on top for an extra layer of zing and shine. You can also try decorating with candied orange peel to add a sweet, chewy contrast that feels especially gourmet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cheesecake fresh and creamy. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying over several days or prepping in advance for a party.
Freezing
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and then again with foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain its smooth, creamy texture without losing any flavor.
Reheating
Since it’s a chilled, no-bake dessert, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply serve the cheesecake chilled straight from the fridge or after thawing from frozen for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs are classic, digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers work well and can slightly change the flavor profile to your liking.
Is orange extract necessary?
Not at all. It’s optional and only included if you want a stronger orange flavor. Fresh orange juice and zest provide plenty of natural citrus taste.
How do I soften cream cheese quickly?
To soften cream cheese quickly, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it in short 10-second bursts, checking often to avoid melting.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This version uses dairy ingredients. For a vegan or dairy-free option, you’d need to substitute with plant-based cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives, but the texture and flavor might differ.
How long does it take to set properly?
For the best texture and firmness, chilling the cheesecake for at least 6 to 8 hours is recommended, with overnight being ideal.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of a creamsicle in a fresh, fluffy, no-fuss cheesecake form. It’s an absolute pleasure to make and share, offering a perfect balance of citrus and creamy sweetness with a buttery crust to round it out. Don’t hesitate to dive in and treat yourself—once you try it, this cheesecake will become a beloved favorite in your dessert repertoire!
Print
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a refreshing, creamy dessert that combines the classic flavors of orange and cream cheese in a smooth, velvety texture. Perfect for warm days or when you want a quick yet impressive dessert without turning on the oven. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, complemented by the zesty orange filling with a hint of vanilla and optional orange extract for added citrus depth.
Ingredients
Crust
- 200 g (2 cups) graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits
- 75 g (5 tbsp) melted butter
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Filling
- 500 g (2 cups) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp orange extract (optional)
- Orange food coloring (optional)
For Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Orange zest or slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will help the crust hold together once pressed into the pan.
- Set the Crust: Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling, which helps the crust to set properly.
- Make the Cream Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add Flavorings: Slowly beat in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and optional orange extract. Mix just until combined to preserve the bright citrus flavor.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This aerated cream will lighten the cheesecake filling.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to avoid deflating the whipped cream. Add orange food coloring if desired, and fold until the color is evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the surface evenly using a spatula, then cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for a minimum of 6-8 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the cheesecake to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh orange zest or slices for an elegant finish. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuits or any other mild-flavored crumbly cookie.
- Optional orange extract enhances the citrus flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- If you prefer a more intense orange taste, increase the orange juice by a tablespoon or two but avoid making the filling too runny.
- Use a chilled bowl and beaters when whipping the cream to achieve stiff peaks faster.
- Covering the cheesecake tightly prevents it from absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
