Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake is visually stunning with its vibrant orange swirls and creamy layers, making it an impressive dessert without the need for baking. It’s refreshingly citrusy, sweet, and creamy all at once — ideal for warm weather or any time you want a light, indulgent treat. Plus, it’s easy to assemble and requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

Crust

11 ounces vanilla wafers, finely crushed
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Whipped Cream (for both layers)

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 (about 2½ to 3 tablespoons depending on size)

Cheesecake Layer

16 ounces cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Crust

Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray.
In a bowl, mix crushed vanilla wafers, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
Press firmly into the bottom of the pan and freeze while preparing the rest of the cheesecake.

Whipped Cream

Whip heavy cream, vanilla flavoring, and powdered sugar on high speed until stiff peaks form. Divide into two equal portions.

Orange Jello Layer

In a bowl, dissolve the orange jello and orange zest in boiling water. Let cool completely.
Fold half of one whipped cream portion into the cooled jello. Reserve ½ cup of this mixture for the swirl.

Cheesecake Layer

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mix until creamy.
Fold in half of the whipped cream mixture. Reserve ¾ cup to swirl with the orange jello mixture.

Assembly

Remove crust from freezer and spread cheesecake layer evenly over it, leaving space for the swirl.
Dollop the reserved orange cream randomly on top and swirl gently with a fork into the cheesecake layer.
Spread the reserved cheesecake mixture over the orange swirls.
Evenly spread the remaining orange cream on top.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set completely.

Serving

Before serving, run a sharp knife along the inside of the pan to loosen the cheesecake and remove the springform ring carefully.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)

Variations

Use different flavors of jello to create fun color and flavor combos.
Add fresh orange slices or zest on top for garnish.
Substitute crushed graham crackers for vanilla wafers for a different crust texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Not suitable for freezing due to texture changes in the jello and cream layers.

FAQs

Can I use pre-crushed vanilla wafers?

Yes, just measure the crushed amount needed.

What if my cream cheese isn’t room temperature?

Soften it to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it’s best made a day before to allow proper chilling and setting.

Can I use gelatin instead of jello?

You can, but you will need to add flavoring and sugar to match the jello taste.

Is the orange zest necessary?

It adds a fresh citrus aroma and flavor, but you can omit if desired.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Heavy cream whips best, but whipping cream can work as well.

Can I use flavored vanilla instead of clear vanilla?

Clear vanilla is preferred to keep the cheesecake’s bright color.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, vanilla wafers contain gluten. Use gluten-free wafers for a gluten-free version.

Can I add more sugar?

Adjust sweetness to taste, but the recipe balances sweetness and tang well.

What’s the best way to slice this cheesecake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean slices.

Conclusion

This No Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a stunning, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, bright citrus notes, and buttery crust, it’s a delightful treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy every refreshing, creamy bite!