No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the refreshing taste of orange with the creaminess of cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for warm weather when you want something light and fruity without the hassle of baking. With layers of orange-flavored cream cheese, classic cheesecake, and a sweet jello top, this treat is sure to impress your friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake! First, it’s easy to prepare, requiring no oven time. Second, it’s a simple recipe with ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. Plus, the layers of flavor and creamy texture will wow anyone who takes a bite. Lastly, this cheesecake is versatile and can be served at parties, picnics, or just as a special treat at home.
How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
Creating this cheesecake is straightforward. Follow the steps below, and you will have a delicious dessert ready to chill in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup orange juice concentrate
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 2 tsp powdered gelatin
- 3 tbsp cold water
- 1 cup heavy cream (for classic layer)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package (3 oz) orange-flavored gelatin mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Directions:
Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Then, refrigerate to set.
Orange Cream Cheese Layer: In a small bowl, bloom the gelatin by mixing it with cold water. In another bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Then, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest (if using). Incorporate the bloomed gelatin into this mixture and gently fold in the whipped cream. Pour this orange cream mixture over the chilled crust and let it chill until firm.
Classic Cheesecake Layer: Bloom more gelatin in another bowl with cold water. Whip more cream to stiff peaks. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Combine this with the bloomed gelatin and fold in the whipped cream. Carefully spread this classic cheesecake batter over the set orange layer and chill until firm.
Orange Jello Top Layer: Dissolve the orange-flavored gelatin in boiling water, then add cold water. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake layers. Chill until this top layer sets.
To Serve: Once everything is firm, run a knife around the edges of the pan. Use a warm knife to slice the cheesecake into pieces. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh orange slices if desired.
How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
Serve this cheesecake chilled. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream on top and a few slices of fresh orange for decoration. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, birthday parties, and family celebrations.
How to Store No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
Keep any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. You can also freeze slices of this cheesecake, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Tips to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal.
- Chill the layers thoroughly for best results—this ensures each layer sets properly.
- Feel free to adjust the orange zest according to your taste; more zest adds more citrus flavor!
Variation
You can change up the flavors by using a different fruit juice concentrate, like lemon or strawberry, instead of orange. The same steps apply, and the cheesecake will have a new twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh orange juice instead of orange juice concentrate?
Yes! You can use fresh orange juice, but the flavor will be lighter compared to concentrate.
2. How can I make it vegetarian?
To make this cheesecake vegetarian, replace the gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based alternative.
3. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve it.
4. What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs for the crust?
You can use crushed cookies, like vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits, as an alternative for the crust.
Feel free to dive into this easy and refreshing dessert. You will surely enjoy every creamy bite!