No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake π°π
This creamy, citrusy, and refreshing no-bake cheesecake combines the sweet flavor of vanilla with the tangy taste of fresh oranges. The result is a smooth and fluffy dessert that requires no oven and is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers, finely crushed)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 (8 oz) (225g) package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (also called confectioners’ sugar)
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 (3 oz) (85g) package orange-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- ¾ cup (180ml) boiling water
- ½ cup (120ml) cold water
- 1 tablespoon (6g) fresh orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
For the topping (optional, but recommended):
- Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh orange slices or zest for decoration
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Crush the graham crackers: If you are using whole graham crackers, place them in a ziplock bag and crush them using a rolling pin. Alternatively, you can process them in a food processor until fine crumbs form.
- Mix the ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir well to distribute the sugar evenly.
- Add melted butter: Pour the melted butter over the crumbs and mix until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should feel like wet sand.
- Press into a pan: Transfer the crumb mixture to a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan or a pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it down firmly and evenly.
- Chill the crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to firm up while preparing the filling. This helps it hold together when slicing.
Step 2: Prepare the Orange Gelatin Mixture
- Dissolve the gelatin: In a heatproof bowl, pour ¾ cup of boiling water over the orange-flavored gelatin powder (Jell-O). Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Add cold water: Pour in ½ cup of cold water and stir to combine.
- Cool to room temperature: Allow the gelatin mixture to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This prevents it from melting the cheesecake mixture when added.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to mix on low speed. Add vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and lump-free.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or it will turn into butter.
- Combine whipped cream and cream cheese mixture: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Fold until no streaks remain, but do not over-mix, as this could deflate the airy texture.
- Incorporate the orange gelatin: Slowly pour the cooled orange gelatin mixture into the cheesecake filling. Stir continuously while pouring to prevent lumps.
- Optional: Add orange zest: If you want a stronger orange flavor, mix in 1 tablespoon of freshly grated orange zest.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling into the crust: Remove the prepared crust from the refrigerator and pour the orange cheesecake mixture over it. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover and refrigerate: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely set. For best results, refrigerate overnight.
Step 5: Decorate and Serve
- Prepare the topping: Once the cheesecake is fully set, decorate it with whipped cream, fresh orange slices, or extra orange zest.
- Slice and enjoy: Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake. For clean slices, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.
- Serve chilled: This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold for a refreshing and creamy texture.
Tips for Best Results
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Use full-fat cream cheese: Low-fat or reduced-fat versions may not set as well, leading to a softer texture.
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Chill thoroughly: Do not rush the chilling process! A full 6 hours (or overnight) ensures the cheesecake firms up properly.
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Dissolve the gelatin completely: Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved in boiling water to avoid grainy texture.
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Fold gently: When mixing whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, use a folding motion rather than stirring to maintain the light and airy texture.
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For a stronger citrus flavor, add ½ teaspoon of orange extract to the filling.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store the cheesecake in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Variations & Customizations
π Lemon Variation: Swap orange gelatin for lemon-flavored gelatin and use lemon zest instead of orange zest for a tangy lemon cheesecake.
π¦ Creamier Vanilla Version: Add ¼ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the filling for an extra creamy texture.
π« Chocolate Orange Twist: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for a delicious chocolate-orange combo.
π± Healthier Version: Use a sugar substitute like stevia and a gluten-free crust for a lighter alternative.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines citrusy freshness with creamy cheesecake goodness. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a perfect crunch, while the orange-flavored filling is light, smooth, and bursting with flavor.
Whether you're making it for a family gathering, a summer party, or just as a treat for yourself, this easy no-bake cheesecake is sure to impress!
Would you like me to adjust anything or provide metric measurements? π
