When I’m craving something cool, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor, I make this no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake. It’s a nostalgic dessert that brings together the tangy-sweet taste of orange creamsicles and the velvety smoothness of cheesecake—all in a no-fuss, no-bake format. Perfect for warm days, potlucks, or anytime I want a refreshing dessert that’s easy to love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this cheesecake because it’s light, airy, and full of sunshiney flavor without needing to turn on the oven. The orange flavor is sweet but not overpowering, and it blends perfectly with the creamy filling. It sets up beautifully in the fridge and slices like a dream. Whether I serve it for a gathering or keep it in the fridge for a sweet treat all week, it’s always a hit.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
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Graham cracker crumbs or vanilla wafer crumbs
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Granulated sugar
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Unsalted butter (melted)
For the filling:
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Cream cheese (softened)
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Powdered sugar
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Orange gelatin (gelatin dessert powder)
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Boiling water
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Orange zest
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Whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
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Vanilla extract
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Optional: a few drops of orange food coloring for extra color
For topping (optional):
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Whipped cream
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Orange slices or zest
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Crushed cookies or graham crumbs
Directions
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I start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined, then press it into the bottom of a springform pan. I chill it in the fridge while I prepare the filling.
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I dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water, stir well, and let it cool to room temperature.
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In a large bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
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I gradually mix in the cooled orange gelatin and orange zest, blending until fully incorporated.
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I fold in the whipped topping gently to keep the filling light and airy.
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I pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top evenly.
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I refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until it’s firm and set.
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Before serving, I top it with extra whipped cream and orange slices or zest if I want a pretty finish.
Servings and timing
This cheesecake makes 10–12 slices.
Prep time is around 20 minutes, and chilling takes 4–6 hours. I usually make it the night before so it sets up perfectly.
Variations
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I’ve made this with lemon or lime gelatin for a citrus twist.
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For a creamier version, I mix in a little sour cream or yogurt with the cream cheese.
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I sometimes swirl in orange marmalade before chilling for bursts of real fruit.
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For a gluten-free version, I use gluten-free cookies in the crust.
Storage/reheating
I store this cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. It holds its shape well and stays creamy and fresh. I don’t freeze it—the texture changes too much once thawed. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, there’s no reheating needed. I just slice and serve cold.
FAQs
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of gelatin?
I use gelatin for structure, but I’ve added a splash of fresh juice for extra flavor—just don’t skip the gelatin or it won’t set properly.
Is whipped topping necessary?
No, I’ve used homemade whipped cream as a substitute. It works beautifully if whipped to stiff peaks.
Can I make this in a regular pie pan?
Yes, I’ve used a deep-dish pie plate or an 8×8 square pan when I don’t have a springform pan.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced with the citrus. I sometimes reduce the powdered sugar slightly if I want a lighter flavor.
How do I get clean slices?
I use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between slices—it makes a big difference.
Conclusion
This no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake is one of those desserts that’s as pretty as it is delicious. It’s smooth, creamy, and packed with bright citrus flavor that reminds me of summer and childhood treats. Whether I’m making it for a holiday, birthday, or just because, it always delivers that perfect balance of nostalgia and indulgence.
Print
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake: A Light, Creamy Citrus Dream
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: About 6 hours
- Yield: 10–12 slices
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake, Cheesecake
- Method: No-Bake, Chilled
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a light, creamy, citrusy dessert that captures the nostalgic flavor of orange creamsicles in a smooth, chilled cheesecake. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant orange filling, this easy no-bake treat is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or make-ahead desserts.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs or vanilla wafer crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter, melted
- For the filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Orange gelatin (gelatin dessert powder)
- Boiling water
- Orange zest
- Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
- Vanilla extract
- Optional: orange food coloring
- For the topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Orange slices or zest
- Crushed cookies or graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
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Mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
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Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
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In a small bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water. Stir well and allow it to cool to room temperature.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
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Gradually mix in the cooled orange gelatin and orange zest until fully incorporated.
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Gently fold in the whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream) to keep the filling light and airy. Add food coloring if using.
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Pour the filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
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Before serving, top with whipped cream, orange slices, orange zest, or crushed cookies if desired.
Notes
- Swap orange gelatin with lemon or lime for a citrus twist.
- Add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Swirl in orange marmalade for real fruit flavor bursts.
- Use gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free crust option.
- For neat slices, use a hot knife wiped clean between cuts.
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