If you love the nostalgic flavor of orange creamsicles and crave the creamy decadence of cheesecake, this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is about to become your new dessert obsession. Each slice is a dreamy fusion of zesty citrus and luscious cream, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust — and best of all, your oven gets the night off! This treat is everything you want from a summer dessert: cool, refreshing, easy to make, and sure to wow at any gathering. Get ready to bring a little sunshine to your table with this delightful no-bake creation.

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake couldn’t be simpler. Every component plays its part, from the cozy graham cracker base to the vibrant orange jello and cloudlike whipped cream. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Orange Jello (1 box, 3 oz): Provides that signature creamsicle flavor and a gorgeous hue to the cheesecake layers.
Boiling Water (1 cup): Activates the jello, ensuring it dissolves smoothly for a creamy and set texture.
Graham Cracker Crumbs (2 cups, about 14 sheets): Forms the crunchy, buttery base that supports the creamy filling beautifully.
Unsalted Butter, melted (6 tbsp): Holds the crust together and gives it that rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Pinch of Salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust and balances the sweetness of the whole dessert.
Cream Cheese, softened (2 blocks, 8 oz each): Brings classic cheesecake tang and silkiness to the filling.
Powdered Sugar (1 1/2 cups, divided): Sweetens both the cream cheese base and the whipped cream for just the right amount of indulgence.
Heavy Whipping Cream (2 cups): Whips up into pillowy peaks, lightening the cheesecake and adding a luxurious mouthfeel.
Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp): Accentuates the orange flavor and rounds out the creamy notes.
Zest of 1 Orange, optional: Adds a fresh burst of citrus that takes the flavor to the next level.

How to Make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Step 1: Make the Orange Jello

Start by preparing the jello. In a heat-proof bowl, whisk together the orange jello powder and boiling water until the granules dissolve completely. This step is key for a smooth, even layer later on. Let the jello cool to room temperature — about 30 minutes — so it doesn’t melt your whipped cream or cream cheese when it’s time to assemble.

Step 2: Prep the Pan

Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick cooking spray and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. This little bit of prep makes serving (and cleaning up) a breeze, giving you perfectly neat slices of No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake every time.

Step 3: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt until you have a mixture that looks like damp sand. Press it firmly into the bottom and just slightly up the sides of your prepared pan to create a sturdy base. Pop the crust in the freezer for at least 30 minutes — this sets it up so it holds together when you add the filling.

Step 4: Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar

Time to get your cheesecake base ultra creamy! In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of the powdered sugar together until super smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This step ensures your filling will be free of lumps for that classic cheesecake texture.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar, vanilla, and (if using) orange zest until stiff peaks form. This is what makes your cheesecake extra airy and light. Gently fold half of this whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate it.

Step 6: Combine Whipped Cream and Jello

Fold the other half of your whipped cream into the cooled orange jello. Mixing these two creates a creamy, dreamy, citrusy layer that swirls throughout the cheesecake for that classic creamsicle look and flavor.

Step 7: Layer and Swirl

Now the fun part! Alternate spoonfuls of the cream cheese filling and orange jello mixture into the chilled crust. Work in batches, then use a butter knife to gently swirl the layers together. Don’t overdo it — you want to see beautiful ribbons of white and orange throughout your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake.

Step 8: Chill to Set

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or (even better) overnight. This allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to meld for the perfect creamy, sliceable dessert.

Step 9: Decorate and Enjoy

When you’re ready to serve, remove the sides of your springform pan. If you want to get fancy, pipe a few decorative dollops of whipped cream along the edges and add fresh orange slices for an extra burst of color and freshness. Slice, serve, and revel in your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake masterpiece!

How to Serve No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Garnishes

The right garnish can make your cheesecake pop! A few elegant swirls of whipped cream and thin orange slices bring out the flavors and make every slice feel celebratory. You could also sprinkle on extra orange zest or even a handful of white chocolate curls for an upscale finish.

Side Dishes

Since No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is so rich on its own, it pairs well with fresh and light offerings. Think a platter of mixed summer berries, a crisp fruit salad, or even a glass of sparkling citrus punch. This balances each bite and adds a lovely touch at get-togethers.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, try making this cheesecake in mini jars or silicone muffin molds — perfect for parties or picnics. You can also create parfait-style layers in clear glasses, letting those gorgeous swirls of white and orange shine through. However you serve it, the flavors are always the star!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake tasting fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It’ll stay creamy and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy a piece anytime the craving strikes.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully! Simply wrap the fully chilled cheesecake (or individual slices) in two layers of plastic wrap, then foil. Store in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge — it’s just as luscious and flavorful as the day you made it.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, there’s no need to reheat. If you’ve frozen the cheesecake, let it defrost in the refrigerator so it’s creamy and sliceable. Avoid microwaving, as this can disrupt that perfect mousse-like texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor jello?

Absolutely! While orange gives that classic creamsicle vibe, feel free to experiment with lemon, lime, or even strawberry jello for fun new twists on the original recipe.

Can I make No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake ahead of time?

This dessert is perfect for making ahead! Prepare and assemble your cheesecake a day before your event, then let it chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Do I need a springform pan?

A springform pan guarantees the cleanest slices, but if you don’t have one, you can use a deep-dish pie plate or rectangular baking dish. Just be sure to line it well with parchment so you can lift the cheesecake out for serving.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can swap in an equal amount of whipped topping for convenience, though the homemade version gives a richer, fresher taste. Either way, your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake will still be delicious and dreamy!

Why does my cheesecake look runny or not set?

Setting issues are usually from either not chilling long enough or using warm ingredients. Be sure all layers are cooled as directed and chill the finished cheesecake at least 6 hours or overnight for perfect results every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as rewarding as whipping up a dessert that’s both jaw-droppingly beautiful and totally fuss-free. I hope you’ll give this No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake a try — it’s guaranteed to bring bright flavor and lots of smiles to your table, whether it’s for a summer celebration or simply a sweet ending to an ordinary day!