A Nostalgic, Creamy Dream in Every Bite!
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a vibrant, refreshing dessert that perfectly captures the classic orange-and-vanilla flavor of childhood creamsicles—but in luxurious cheesecake form! With its buttery vanilla wafer crust, creamy orange-infused filling, and light, fluffy texture, it’s the ultimate summer treat or year-round crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ No Oven Needed – Perfect for hot days or easy entertaining.
🍊 Bright Citrus Flavor – Tangy orange jello + fresh zest.
☁ Light & Fluffy – Whipped cream keeps it airy.
⏳ Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill overnight for stress-free serving.
Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Crust:
- 12 oz vanilla wafers – Substitute with graham crackers or gluten-free cookies.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Adjust to taste.
- 4 tbsp melted butter – Salted butter works (omit added salt).
For the Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese – Softened to room temp.
- 1½ cups granulated sugar, divided – 1 cup for cream cheese, ½ cup for whipped cream.
- 2 cups heavy cream – Must be cold for proper whipping.
- 1 (3 oz) box orange jello – For that iconic creamsicle flavor.
- 1 cup boiling water – To dissolve the jello.
- ½ cup powdered sugar – For sweetness in the whipped cream.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the vanilla-orange balance.
- Zest of 1 orange – Fresh zest adds brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Crust
- Pulse vanilla wafers in a food processor into fine crumbs.
- Mix with sugar + melted butter.
- Press into a 9-inch springform pan (bottom and slightly up sides).
- Freeze 30 mins to set.
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling
- Beat cream cheese + 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
- Dissolve orange jello in boiling water, then cool slightly.
- Whip heavy cream + powdered sugar + vanilla + orange zest to stiff peaks.
- Fold half the whipped cream into the jello mixture.
- Fold the other half into the cream cheese mixture.
3️⃣ Assemble & Chill
- Spread cream cheese layer over the crust.
- Top with orange cream layer, smoothing gently.
- Chill 4+ hours (overnight best).
4️⃣ Serve!
- Garnish with extra zest or whipped cream if desired.
- Slice and enjoy cold.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecake
🍊 Use Fresh Zest – Avoid the white pith (it’s bitter).
❄ Chill the Bowl & Whisk – Helps whip cream faster.
🌀 Fold Gently – Preserves the airy texture.
🔪 Clean Cuts – Dip knife in hot water before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
🍦 With Vanilla Ice Cream – Double the creamsicle vibe!
🍫 Chocolate Drizzle – For a “chocolate-dipped” twist.
🍹 Pair with Fizzy Drinks – Orange soda or prosecco.
Storage Tips
❄ Fridge – Keeps 3 days covered.
⛄ Freezer – Freeze without garnish up to 1 month (thaw in fridge).
Delicious Variations
🌈 Rainbow Jello – Use different jello flavors for layers.
🍓 Strawberry Creamsicle – Swap orange jello for strawberry.
🌰 Toasted Coconut – Sprinkle on top for crunch.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is creamy, citrusy, and utterly nostalgic—the perfect dessert to brighten any day!
Make it today and relive those sweet childhood memories! 😋🍊