Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Bars: A Dreamy No-Bake Dessert for All Seasons

If you’re looking for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dessert that balances creamy richness with a burst of citrusy brightness, you’ve landed in the right place. These Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Bars are everything you loved about the classic creamsicle popsicle — reimagined into a sophisticated, no-bake layered treat. Velvety smooth cheesecake, zesty orange curd, and a buttery graham cracker base come together to create a dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes.

This recipe is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, holidays, potlucks, or any time you want to bring a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, fun, and yields stunning results without ever turning on your oven.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

These cheesecake bars are ideal for:

• Citrus lovers craving that sweet-tart orange flavor

• Fans of no-bake desserts that are easy yet elegant

• Busy hosts looking for make-ahead treats that impress

• Creamsicle enthusiasts who want a nostalgic twist in a modern format

If you love silky textures and crave the flavor of orange sherbet swirled with whipped cream, this one’s for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ¾ cups finely crushed graham crackers

• 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar

• 6 Tablespoons melted butter

For the Orange Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 oz. sweetened orange-flavored gelatin (like Jell-O)

• ½ cup boiling water

• ½ cup iced water

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

• 1 ½ cups whipped cream (Cool Whip or homemade)

• Orange food coloring (optional)

For the Orange Curd:

• 3 Tablespoons butter

• ⅓ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

• 1½ teaspoons orange zest

• ⅓ cup sugar

• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk, lightly whisked

• Orange food coloring (optional)

For Serving:

• Whipped cream

• Orange wedges

• Mint leaves (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×9-inch baking pan

• Aluminum foil or plastic wrap

• Mixing bowls

• Hand mixer or stand mixer

• Saucepan

• Whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Rubber spatula

• Sharp knife for slicing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Line your 9×9 pan with foil or plastic wrap, allowing a few inches to overhang for easy removal later. Lightly spray with cooking spray.

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the base of the pan. Chill in the fridge to firm up while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

Dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water, stirring for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Stir in the iced water and set aside to cool to room temperature.

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Slowly add sweetened condensed milk while continuing to beat. Then, pour in orange juice and blend until fully combined.

Now add the cooled gelatin and mix until well combined. If you’d like a more vibrant orange hue, stir in a few drops of food coloring.

Gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula, being careful not to deflate it. Spread the mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

3. Make the Orange Curd

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar, orange zest, and orange juice. Slowly add in the eggs while whisking constantly.

Return to medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Do not let it boil. Optionally, add food coloring here too.

Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and cool to room temperature.

4. Assemble and Serve

Once the cheesecake is fully set, lift it from the pan using the foil overhang. Spread the cooled orange curd evenly on top.

Slice into bars and garnish with whipped cream, mint leaves, and orange wedges for a stunning presentation.

Tips & Tricks

• Whipped cream: You can use store-bought Cool Whip or make your own by whipping ¾ cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

• Zest first! Always zest your oranges before juicing. It’s much easier and ensures you don’t waste any citrus flavor.

• No Jell-O? Substitute with plain gelatin and fresh orange juice sweetened with a bit of sugar, though the classic Jell-O flavor adds nostalgia.

• For a firmer bar: Add 1 extra teaspoon of gelatin for a sturdier texture, especially if serving outdoors or in warm weather.

• Crust alternatives: Try crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or gingersnaps for a flavor twist.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because of the dairy and gelatin, it’s best served chilled. These bars also freeze well — wrap tightly in plastic and then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Food & Drink Pairings

Drinks:

• A glass of chilled Prosecco or Moscato complements the citrus notes beautifully.

• For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling orange water or iced green tea with lemon.

Pair with:

• Light chicken or seafood dishes for a refreshing end to your meal.

• Summer picnic classics like pasta salad and fruit skewers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are best when made a day in advance. The extra chill time helps them set perfectly.

Q: Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch. Choose one without added sugar or preservatives if possible.

Q: What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
You can make homemade whipped cream using ¾ cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, whipped until soft peaks form.

Q: Can I skip the orange curd?
Yes. The bars are still delicious with just the cheesecake layer. However, the curd adds a rich, tangy topping that elevates the flavor.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers.

Final Thoughts

These Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Bars bring joy to any occasion. They’re rich yet light, sweet with just enough citrus punch, and beautiful enough for celebrations — all without turning on your oven.

Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, bringing dessert to a summer BBQ, or just treating yourself, this no-bake masterpiece is sure to impress. Try them once, and they’ll become a repeat favorite in your kitchen!

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