No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
A quick and easy dessert that's perfect for busy families, blending creamy cheesecake and refreshing orange flavors without the need for baking.
Ingredients
For the cheesecake
- 2 blocks 8 ounce blocks cream cheese, softened Block-style cream cheese is preferred for texture.
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar, divided 1 cup for the cream cheese mixture, 1/2 cup for whipping.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream Use chilled for better whipping.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange orange zest (optional) Brightens the flavor.
For the crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs Approximately 14 full sheets; can buy pre-crumbed.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Light butter or neutral oil can be substituted.
- 1 pinch salt
For the jello layer
- 1 box 3 ounce orange jello For a fresher flavor, combine with juice.
- 1 cup boiling water Used to dissolve the jello.
Optional Add-ons
- Fresh orange slices or segments for garnish
- Miniature white chocolate chips or grated white chocolate For a creamsicle touch.
- Sprinkles or colored sugar For a kid-friendly look.
- A few drops of orange food coloring If you want a more vivid layer.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pour the orange jello powder into a heat-proof bowl and stir in 1 cup boiling water until fully dissolved. Set the bowl to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and salt. Press the mixture into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the springform pan. Chill the crust in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Whipping and Mixing
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with the remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange zest (if using) until stiff peaks form.
- Fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined. Fold the remaining whipped cream into the cooled orange jello.
Assembly
- Spoon alternating dollops of the cream cheese mixture and the orange jello mixture into the prepared crust to build layers.
- Gently swirl the layers with a butter knife for a marbled look.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the springform pan and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Once set, remove the sides of the springform pan. Garnish with whipped cream and orange slices if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Cool the jello while preparing the crust and cream. Use a mixer for both cream cheese and whipped cream.