No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

This no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake tastes just like the classic frozen treat with creamy, orange and vanilla layers. Make it fast with simple ingredients for birthdays, summer parties, or easy desserts at home.

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This no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake tastes like a frozen treat in pie form. It’s rich, creamy, and full of orange flavor. The graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the whipped filling. Make it ahead for parties, holidays, or a fun summer dessert.

This recipe is super easy to make—just follow the step-by-step photos and directions below. We also share helpful pro tips and tricks. Don’t miss the most frequently asked questions and answers for the best results every time.

This no bake orange cheesecake tastes like the classic popsicle but in rich, creamy cheesecake form. The smooth filling and sweet graham cracker crust make it perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or summer parties.

You only need a few simple ingredients to whip this one up at home. It’s cool, creamy, and packed with orange and vanilla flavor in every bite.

What you'll need to make this creamsicle cheesecake recipe:

For The Crust:

• 11-ounce box of vanilla wafers, finely crushed
• 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
• 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted

For The Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups of heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon of clear vanilla flavoring
• ½ cup + 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar

For The Orange Jello Layer:

• ¾ cup of boiling water
• 1 (3-ounce) box of orange-flavored jello powder
• zest of 1 orange (approximately 2½ to 3 tablespoons, depending on the size of the orange)

For The Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup of granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon of clear vanilla flavoring

Customize your no bake orange creamsicle cheesecake by swapping ingredients or mixing in a few extras! These simple changes keep it just as delicious. Here are some top substitutions and additions:

• Substitute Whipped Topping: Use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought for a richer texture in your orange creamsicle cheesecake.
• Add Orange Zest: Mix in fresh orange zest for a bolder citrus flavor throughout the creamy cheesecake filling.
• Substitute Graham Crust: Swap the graham cracker crust with crushed vanilla wafers for a sweeter, cookie-style base.
• Add White Chocolate Chips: Fold in white chocolate chips for added sweetness and texture in every creamy bite.
• Substitute Orange Jell-O: Try tangerine or mandarin orange gelatin for a fun twist on the classic creamsicle flavor.

Follow along with our step-by-step pictures and easy instructions to make this orange creamsicle no bake cheesecake at home. Don’t miss the tips and tricks listed below to help you get it just right. Let’s get started!

For The Crust

FIRST STEP: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed vanilla wafers, the granulated sugar, and the melted butter.

Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. 

SECOND STEP: Firmly press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan sprayed with nonstick spray. Place the crust into the freezer while preparing the rest of the cake.

For The Whipped Cream (for both layers)

FIRST STEP: Using either a stand mixer with a whip attachment or a large bowl and a handheld mixer, combine the heavy cream, ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring, and powdered sugar.

Whip the heavy cream mixture on high until stiff peaks form. 

SECOND STEP: Divide the whipped cream mixture evenly into two small mixing bowls.

For The Orange Layer

FIRST STEP: In a small bowl, stir to combine the ¾ cup boiling water, orange-flavored jello, and the orange zest.

Stir until the jello has dissolved. Set aside to cool completely.

SECOND STEP: Once the jello mixture is cooled, carefully fold in half of the whipped cream set aside for the jello mixture.

Reserve ½ cup of the jello cream to make the center jello swirl.

For The Cheesecake Layer

FIRST STEP: Using a medium bowl and an electric mixer, set on medium-high, beat the blocks of cream cheese for 1 to 1½ minutes.

Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the granulated sugar and clear vanilla flavoring.

Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue to mix the cream cheese mixture until it is smooth, about 1½ minutes.

Be sure to use a spatula to scrape down the side of the bowl. Set aside.

SECOND STEP: Fold half of the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture. Reserve ¾ cup to swirl with the orange jello layer for the center.

Creamsicle Cake Assembly

FIRST STEP: Remove the crust from the freezer. Evenly spread the cheesecake layer over the crust, leaving the ¾ cup reserved for the swirl. Set it aside. 

SECOND STEP: Using a small spoon, dollop spoonfuls of the ½ cup reserved orange cream randomly on top of the cheesecake layer. 

THIRD STEP: Use a fork to swirl the orange dollops into the bottom cheesecake layer.

FOURTH STEP: Spread the reserved ¾ cup cheesecake on top of the orange swirls.

FIFTH STEP: Evenly spread the remaining orange mixture over the remaining cheesecake layer.

Place in the refrigerator for at least six hours to overnight to completely set.

SIXTH STEP: Once the orange creamsicle cake is firmly set and the cake is still in the springform pan, carefully run a sharp knife along the inside of the pan.

This will help the cake release from the pan.

There are plenty of fun ways to enjoy this no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake. It’s a sweet pick for parties, summer hangouts, or simple weeknight desserts.

• Perfect for summer parties: The cool, creamy filling makes this a go-to dessert for hot weather. Kids and adults both love the orange creamsicle flavor. Serve it with root beer floats or orange fluff.
• Great for birthdays and celebrations: This bright, fruity cheesecake works well for birthdays, baby showers, and family cookouts. Pair it with funfetti cupcakes or mini peanut butter cheesecakes.
• Easy weeknight dessert: It takes little effort but still feels special. Slice and chill ahead for a quick treat. Try it with chocolate chip cheesecake cookies or lemon lasagna.

This orange creamsicle dessert is a longtime favorite with our readers—and it’s easy to see why. From the nostalgic flavor to the easy prep, this dessert checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleaser that’s simple and fun to make.

• No Oven Needed: This cheesecake keeps things cool, especially during warm spring and summer months.
• Kid-Approved: The sweet orange and vanilla flavor tastes just like the classic creamsicle treat everyone grew up loving.
• Great for Parties: You can make it ahead and serve it chilled, which makes it perfect for sharing.
• Feels Fun and Fresh: The bright color and creamy filling bring energy to any dessert table without a lot of work.

It’s easy, cheerful, and always a hit—no wonder readers keep coming back for more.

Can I use a store-bought crust for this no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake?
Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust for this cheesecake to save time and skip a prep step.

Do I need to bake anything for this orange creamsicle cheesecake?
No, you don’t need to bake this cheesecake. Just mix, layer, and chill it until firm and ready to serve.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping, but make sure it holds stiff peaks for best results.

How long does the cheesecake need to chill before slicing?
Chill your no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake for at least six hours so the filling sets up and slices cleanly.

Does the gelatin need to cool before adding it to the filling?
Yes, let the orange gelatin cool completely so it doesn’t melt the whipped topping or make the filling too thin.

What’s the best way to mix the cheesecake filling?
Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to fully blend the cream cheese, sugar, and gelatin mixture.

Can I make this cheesecake in a springform pan?
Yes, you can use a springform pan for this cheesecake. It helps you remove clean slices with smooth edges.

Why does my filling look runny before chilling?
The no-bake filling looks soft at first, but chilling it in the fridge will firm it up into a sliceable layer.

Do I need to level the cheesecake before chilling it?
Yes, spread the filling evenly in the pan before chilling so the top sets flat and looks neat when sliced.

Should I serve this cheesecake cold or room temperature?
Always serve no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake cold so the filling stays firm and the flavors stay fresh and creamy.

What are some suggestions for dressing up the top before serving?
You can add whipped cream, orange slices, or sprinkles on top for a fun and festive dessert look.

Is this cheesecake good for serving at summer events?
Yes, the chilled texture and orange flavor make this cheesecake perfect for summer parties, BBQs, and birthday celebrations.

Can I slice the cheesecake ahead of time for serving?
Yes, slice it before guests arrive, then chill until ready to serve so each piece holds its shape on the plate.

Is this dessert kid-friendly for parties or birthdays?
Yes, the sweet orange and vanilla flavor makes this cheesecake a hit with kids at birthdays, holidays, and family events.

Follow the tips and directions below to store your orange cream dessert the right way. These steps help keep the texture creamy and the flavor fresh, whether you're prepping ahead or saving leftovers.

Can I make no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, make the cheesecake a day early. Chill it in the fridge until you're ready to slice and serve.

What’s the best way to store leftover orange creamsicle cheesecake?
Keep leftovers covered tightly or in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to five days.

Can I freeze this no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake?
Yes, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze it for up to one month.

How do I thaw frozen orange creamsicle cheesecake?
Move the cheesecake to the fridge and thaw overnight. Slice once it’s fully chilled and firm.

Should I slice the cheesecake before freezing?
Yes, pre-slice before freezing to thaw individual pieces as needed. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap first.

Can I reheat this cheesecake before serving?
No, don’t warm this dessert. Serve no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake cold so it holds its shape and smooth texture.

No Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

This no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake tastes just like the classic frozen treat with creamy, orange and vanilla layers. Make it fast with simple ingredients for birthdays, summer parties, or easy desserts at home.

Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!

5 from 21 votes

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Chill Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 843 kcal

Ingredients

  

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Crust

• 11 ounce vanilla wafers (finely crushed)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Whipped Cream

• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
• ½ cup powdered sugar (plus 1 tablespoon)

Orange Jello Layer

• ¾ cup boiling water
• 3 ounces orange-flavored jello
• 1 orange zest (approximately 2½ to 3 tablespoons depending on the size of the orange)

Cheesecake Layer

• 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring

DIRECTIONS

 

Crust

• Generously spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and set it aside.
• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed vanilla wafers, the granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Firmly press the crust into the prepared springform pan. Place the crust into the freezer while preparing the rest of the cake.

Whipped Cream (for both layers)

• Using either a stand mixer with a whip attachment or a large mixing bowl and a handheld mixer, combine the heavy cream, ½ teaspoon of clear vanilla flavoring, and powdered sugar. Whip the heavy cream mixture on high until stiff peaks form. Divide the whipped cream mixture evenly into 2 small mixing bowls.
• Orange Jello Layer
• In a small mixing bowl, stir to combine the ¾ cup boiling water, orange-flavored jello, and the orange zest. Stir until the jello has dissolved. Set aside to cool completely.
• Once the jello mixture is cooled, carefully fold in the half whipped cream set aside for the jello mixture. Reserve ½ cup of the jello cream to make the center jello swirl.

Cheesecake Layer

• Using a medium-sized mixing bowl and a handheld mixer set on medium-high, beat the cream cheese for 1 to 1½ minutes. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the granulated sugar and clear vanilla flavoring. Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue mixing until the cream cheese mixture is smooth, about 1½ minutes. Be sure to use a spatula to scrape down the side of the bowl. Set aside.
• Fold half of the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture. Reserve ¾ cup to swirl with the orange jello layer for the center.

Creamsicle Cake Assembly

• Remove the crust from the freezer. Evenly spread the cheesecake layer over the crust, leaving the ¾ cup reserved for the swirl. Set it aside.
• Using a small spoon, dollop spoonfuls of the ½ cup reserved orange cream randomly on top of the cheesecake layer.
• Use a fork to swirl the orange dollops into the bottom cheesecake layer.
• Spread the reserved ¾ cup cheesecake on top of the orange swirls.
• Evenly spread the remaining orange cream mixture over the remaining cheesecake layer. Place in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours to overnight to completely set.
• Once the orange creamsicle cake is firmly set and the cake is still in the springform pan, carefully run a sharp knife along the inside of the pan. This will help the cake release from the pan.

WATCH THIS RECIPE VIDEO

Notes

• If your wafers do not come pre-crushed, either place them in a Ziploc bag and use a rolling pin to crush them quickly and mess-free, or use a food processor to turn them into crumbs.
• Make sure your cream cheese is room temperature, otherwise you will have lumps in your cheesecake.
• This cake is best to make it the day before, so it has time to chill and set well. Recipe adapted from: Love Bakes Good Cakes

Nutrition

Calories: 843kcal | Carbohydrates: 74g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 59g | Saturated Fat: 35g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 155mg | Sodium: 403mg | Potassium: 173mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 56g | Vitamin A: 1992IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 101mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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