No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake – Refreshing Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert combines the tangy sweetness of orange and the creamy vanilla richness of cheesecake, mimicking the flavor of those classic creamsicle popsicles without ever turning on the oven. It’s a fun, refreshing treat—especially in warm weather—easy to make ahead, and visually pretty with its layered or swirled look. The crust gives crunch, the filling is light yet luxurious, and the orange layer adds color and citrus punch. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you want something indulgent but not baked.

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Ingredients Breakdown

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Here are what the components are and what they contribute:

• Crust (graham cracker crumbs or vanilla wafer / Golden Oreo crumbs + melted butter + sugar)
  – Provides a buttery, sweet base with texture. The crust helps hold up the soft filling and contrasts nicely with the creamy and tangy layers. Several versions use graham cracker crust. Cooking With Carlee+2Delish+2
• Cream cheese (softened)
  – The core of the cheesecake filling. It gives richness, body, and creaminess. When well softened, it mixes smoothly without lumps. thedomesticrebel.com+2Delish+2
• Sugar (granulated and/or powdered / confectioners’ sugar)
  – Sweetens the filling and balances the tang of the cream cheese and the tartness of the orange. Powdered sugar helps with smooth texture. thedomesticrebel.com+2Cooking With Carlee+2
• Vanilla extract
  – Adds warm, mellow flavor that complements both cream cheese and orange. It helps mimic the creamy “vanilla” part of creamsicle. thedomesticrebel.com+2Delish+2
• Heavy cream or whipped cream
  – Lightens the texture of the cheesecake filling to make it fluffy and mousse-like. Also helps make the orange layer softer when folded in. thedomesticrebel.com+2Cooking With Carlee+2
• Orange gelatin / orange Jell-O mix
  – Provides the orange flavor and color, gives a set layer when cooled, and adds moisture and a distinct “popsicle” orange essence. Many recipes dissolve orange gelatin in boiling water, let it cool, then fold with whipped cream. thedomesticrebel.com+2The Best Blog Recipes+2
• Orange juice or zest
  – Extra orange flavor from zest or juice can boost the citrus punch beyond the gelatin. Zest especially gives aromatic oils. thedomesticrebel.com+2Cooking With Carlee+2
• Optional garnish (whipped cream, orange slices or segments, extra zest)
  – Makes it pretty for serving, adds freshness and texture. Garnish also reinforces the creamsicle theme visually. thedomesticrebel.com+1

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to put it together:

1. Prepare the crust
   • Combine crumbs (graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or Golden Oreos), sugar (if the crust recipe calls for it), and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. thedomesticrebel.com+1
   • Press this mixture firmly into the bottom (and sometimes slightly up the sides) of a 9-inch springform or similar pan. Chill in freezer or fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up. thedomesticrebel.com+1
2. Make orange gelatin layer (flavor/color layer)
   • Dissolve the orange gelatin mix (or orange Jell-O) in boiling water; stir until fully dissolved. Add in orange zest (or juice if desired). Let cool to room temperature so it isn’t too hot. thedomesticrebel.com+1
   • Whip half of the whipped cream (or heavy cream + sugar + vanilla) to stiff peaks. Fold the cooled gelatin mixture into that portion of whipped cream to make the “orange layer.” thedomesticrebel.com+1
3. Prepare the cheesecake filling (vanilla/cream base)
   • Beat softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy. thedomesticrebel.com+1
   • Whip the remaining cream (or whipped cream component) and fold into the cream cheese mixture gently to maintain a light texture. thedomesticrebel.com+1
4. Layer (or swirl) the cheesecake
   • Spread half of the cream cheese (vanilla) filling over the chilled crust.
   • Then spread half of the orange-whipped cream (gelatin) mixture over it.
   • Continue layering or dolloping alternately (vanilla, then orange, then vanilla, then orange) to use up all mixtures. If desired, use a knife or spatula to swirl the top for a marbled effect. thedomesticrebel.com+1
5. Chill to set
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight, so that the filling fully sets and slices cleanly. Some recipes recommend a longer chill (8 hours). thedomesticrebel.com+2Love Bakes Good Cakes+2
6. Garnish & Serve
   • Once set, garnish top with whipped cream, orange slices or segments, extra orange zest, if desired.
   • Use a hot, sharp knife (wipe clean between cuts) for smooth slices.

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Servings and Timing

Detail	Estimate
Servings	Usually makes around 10-12 slices (with standard 9-inch pan) depending on thickness. Grandbaby Cakes+1
Prep time	~ 20-30 minutes (making crust, gelatin, filling, layering) Cooking With Carlee+2Delish+2
Chill time	~ 4-8 hours minimum; overnight gives best texture. thedomesticrebel.com+2Love Bakes Good Cakes+2
Total time	~ 5-9 hours including chill time (most of that is passive).

Variations & Customizations

Here are ideas to tailor this dessert:

• Use different crusts: vanilla wafers, Nilla wafers, Golden Oreos, graham crackers.
• Boost orange flavor: extra zest, use fresh-squeezed orange juice if compatible, or use orange extract.
• Change sweetness: reduce sugar slightly in the cheesecake or crust if you prefer less sweet.
• Make it more citrusy: add a lemon zest touch or mix orange + another citrus.
• Swirl more for visual appeal: swirl the orange and vanilla layers in more pronounced patterns.
• Individual servings: make in small jars or cups for portion control or portability.
• Lightened version: use lower fat cream cheese or less sugar, or use whipped topping instead of full heavy cream (though texture may change).
• Garnish creatively: candied orange peel, orange segments, white chocolate shavings, or even edible flowers.

FAQs

Does the orange gelatin need to cool before adding?

Yes — important. If it’s too hot, it can melt whipped cream or deflate it, which ruins texture. Let it cool to near room temperature before folding in. thedomesticrebel.com+1

Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes — a store-bought graham cracker or biscuit crust works fine if you want to skip making crust. Just ensure it’s firm and chilled.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Stored covered, it will keep for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Garnishes (fresh whipped cream, fruit) are best just before serving.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes. Freeze fully set cheesecake (without delicate garnishes). Wrap tightly. Thaw in fridge before serving. Freezing may slightly change texture.

What if my filling seems soft even after chilling?

Make sure ingredients (cream cheese, whipped cream) were sufficiently firm, crust was chilled well, and refrigerator is cold enough. Chilling longer helps. Also using gelatin layer (with cooled gelatin) adds stability.

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