No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

Summer desserts don’t get much more nostalgic and refreshingly creamy than this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. Imagine the dreamy flavor of a classic orange creamsicle transformed into a lusciously layered treat that requires zero oven time! Each bite balances citrus brightness with cloud-like creaminess, and the best part is you don’t need to be a pro baker to pull this off. If you’re looking to wow a crowd or craving a cool, easy dessert to whip up on a hot day, this is the recipe that will earn you rave reviews.

Ingredients You’ll Need

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake only calls for simple, familiar ingredients, but together, they create a showstopping dessert. Each element has a purpose, contributing either irresistible flavor, texture, or that beautiful creamsicle hue that just pops.

• Vanilla wafers: The backbone of the crust, providing sweetness and vanilla flavor in every crunchy bite.
• Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect level of sweetness to both the crust and the creamy filling.
• Unsalted butter: Binds the crust together and delivers a rich, buttery finish.
• Cream cheese: The creamy star of the show, giving your cheesecake its signature velvety texture.
• Heavy cream: When whipped, this gives the cake its light, airy lift and luscious mouthfeel.
• Orange Jello: Offers that iconic “creamsicle” flavor and a cheerful citrusy color without extra fuss.
• Boiling water: Dissolves the Jello to infuse the filling with bright orange flavor throughout.
• Powdered sugar: Adds smooth sweetness to the whipped cream layer without any grittiness.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, aromatic note that complements the orange.
• Orange zest: Brings fresh, fragrant citrus brilliance, plus a hint of color that makes each slice pop.

How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Step 1: Make the Vanilla Wafer Crust

Start by pulsing the vanilla wafers in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs. Add in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and the melted butter, then pulse again until everything is well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed. This forms the perfect sweet and crunchy base for your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake, setting the stage for those dreamy layers.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Set the Crust

Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a generous coating of cooking spray. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. The edges don’t have to be perfect, but make sure there are no gaps. Pop the pan into the freezer for at least 30 minutes so the crust can firm up and hold its shape under all that luscious filling.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar with a hand mixer until the mixture looks totally smooth and fluffy. This step is key for achieving a true cheesecake texture, so don’t rush—scrape down the sides as needed!

Step 4: Dissolve the Orange Jello

Pour the box of orange Jello powder into a medium bowl, then carefully whisk in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, making sure there are no undissolved granules. Set it aside to cool slightly. This is what will give your cheesecake its signature color and that nostalgic citrus flavor, right out of the popsicle truck playbook.

Step 5: Whip the Cream and Combine the Layers

Using another bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until you have firm, fluffy peaks. Divide this whipped cream in half. Gently fold one half into the dissolved Jello mixture, and the other half into the cream cheese mixture. This creates two distinct but equally delicious layers of creamsicle flavor.

Step 6: Layer and Chill the Cheesecake

Now, the fun part! Start by spreading the cream cheese mixture onto the chilled crust, smoothing out the top. Next, spoon over the orange Jello whipped cream, gently swirling or smoothing the layers for a stunning marbled effect if you like. Chill the assembled cake in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is best!) so it sets up perfectly sliceable and satisfyingly cool.

How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Garnishes

Take your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake to the next level with simple yet stunning garnishes. I love to scatter fresh orange zest, delicate whipped cream swirls, or candied orange slices right before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a spiral of white chocolate also makes each slice pop, turning dessert into a celebration!

Side Dishes

While this cheesecake is wonderfully rich, it pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Set out a bowl of mixed berries—like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries—for a refreshing contrast. If you’re serving it at a gathering, offer sparkling water with citrus slices or an iced herbal tea to echo the zingy orange notes of the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For a memorable presentation, try slicing the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake into bars or cubes for a party platter, or use a small round cookie cutter to make adorable mini cheesecakes. Individual jars or cups make adorable grab-and-go treats, and you can even layer with extra crushed vanilla wafers for a parfait twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers (if you have any!) should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake keeps beautifully for up to 4–5 days, so you can enjoy a chilled slice anytime you crave a little taste of summer.

Freezing

To freeze, slice the cheesecake and arrange the pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Once frozen solid, transfer slices to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to treat yourself—perfect for planning ahead for special occasions!

Reheating

No reheating needed for this cool, creamy delight—just let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes for the creamiest texture. If you’ve kept it in the freezer, let it thaw in the fridge rather than microwaving, so the creamy layers stay smooth and decadent.

FAQs

Can I use a graham cracker crust instead of vanilla wafers?

Absolutely! A graham cracker crust works wonderfully and will add a slightly different, but equally delicious, base to your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake. Just swap the vanilla wafers for the same amount of graham crackers.

Is it possible to make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the vanilla wafers with your favorite gluten-free cookies, and double-check that your Jello and all other ingredients are gluten-free. The rest of the process remains exactly the same.

Can I swap out orange Jello for another flavor?

You can definitely experiment with different Jello flavors for a fun twist. Try lemon or strawberry for a new spin, but orange really captures that classic creamsicle magic.

How long does the cheesecake need to chill?

For best results, chill the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, but if you can leave it overnight, the flavors and texture will be even better. Patience is the secret ingredient here!

Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can use an equal amount of thawed Cool Whip to save a little time, but homemade whipped cream gives the cheesecake a richer, fresher flavor that really shines.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sharing a chilled, creamy slice of No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake with friends and family, especially when it brings back those sweet childhood memories. Give this recipe a try and let its vibrant citrus flair and silky-smooth layers win a spot in your own dessert hall of fame!

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