Dreamy Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Sweet memories of childhood summers dance through my orange creamsicle cheesecake, blending nostalgic flavors into a delightful dessert.

Cool citrus notes weave perfectly with rich cream cheese layers.

Soft orange zest adds bright, unexpected complexity to each creamy bite.

Tangy yet smooth textures create a magical experience that transports you to carefree afternoons.

Subtle vanilla undertones complement the vibrant orange essence throughout this elegant treat.

Chilled and dreamy, this dessert promises pure indulgence with every forkful.

You won’t be able to resist diving into this delectable creation.

What Makes Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake So Refreshing

• Savor Nostalgic Flavors: Captures the beloved childhood orange creamsicle treat in a sophisticated cheesecake form, bringing back sweet memories with every creamy bite.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting orange intensity through zest and juice quantities, making it perfect for personal taste preferences and flavor experiments.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Impresses guests with its elegant presentation and delightful combination of tangy orange and rich, smooth cream cheese, suitable for various gatherings and celebrations.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the cheesecake in advance, allowing it to chill overnight, which means less stress and more enjoyment when serving this delectable dessert to family and friends.

Ingredients for Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust mixture.
• Melted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together and creates a rich flavor.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its creamy and tangy base.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the cream cheese.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to the cheesecake texture.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent and help create the smooth, custard-like consistency.
• Heavy Cream: Contributes to the rich and creamy texture of the filling.
• Orange Juice: Brings a bright and fresh citrus flavor to the cheesecake.
• Orange Zest: Provides intense orange flavor and aromatic citrus notes.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet essence.

• Heavy Cream, Powdered Sugar: Create a light and fluffy whipped cream topping that complements the citrusy cheesecake.
• Orange Zest: Adds a final burst of fresh orange flavor and decorative touch.

How to Prepare Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare The Oven And Pan

Warm up your oven to 325°F. Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a light grease. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Create The Crunchy Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Melted butter

Press this mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom to form a solid base. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.

Step 3: Whip The Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth. Add sour cream and blend well. Gently incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing minimally.

Step 4: Infuse Citrusy Flavor

• Heavy cream
• Fresh orange juice
• Orange zest
• Vanilla extract

Mix until the batter becomes completely smooth and uniform.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Pour the creamy mixture over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center sets and edges turn golden.

Step 6: Cool Slowly

Turn off the oven. Leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for one hour to prevent cracking.

Step 7: Chill And Set

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture.

Step 8: Crown With Whipped Topping

Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the fluffy cream over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 9: Final Flourish

Sprinkle extra orange zest on top for a burst of citrusy aroma before serving.

Pro Tips for Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

• Master Room Temperature Ingredients: Let cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream sit out for 30-60 minutes before mixing to ensure ultra-smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Prevent Cracking Technique: Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water during baking to maintain even temperature and prevent surface cracks.
• Zest Like a Pro: Use a microplane or fine grater to obtain delicate, fragrant orange zest without the bitter white pith underneath, maximizing citrus flavor.
• Slice with Dental Floss: Clean, unwaxed dental floss creates perfect, smooth cheesecake slices without disturbing the creamy texture, especially when chilled thoroughly.

Variations to Try with Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

• Lemon Zinger Cheesecake: Replace orange juice and zest with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for a tangy citrus version.
• Low-Carb Almond Crust Variation: Swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour and add extra butter to maintain binding for a keto-friendly option.
• Dairy-Free Orange Dream: Use coconut cream cheese, coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and vegan butter to create a plant-based alternative.
• Tropical Coconut Orange Remix: Incorporate shredded coconut into the crust and add coconut extract to enhance the tropical flavor profile of the cheesecake.

Best Pairings for Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

• Pair Crisp White Wine: Select a light, refreshing Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that complements the citrusy orange notes and cuts through the creamy cheesecake richness.
• Elevate Dessert Experience: Serve alongside candied orange slices to enhance the zesty flavor profile and provide a beautiful, textural garnish that echoes the cake's bright essence.
• Match Citrus Sorbet: Add a small scoop of orange or tangerine sorbet on the side to intensify the orange undertones and create a cool, palate-cleansing accompaniment.
• Brew Complementary Tea: Choose a delicate Earl Grey or chamomile tea to balance the dessert's sweetness and provide a gentle, aromatic counterpoint to the creamy cheesecake texture.

Storage Tips for Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

• Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep the cheesecake in the springform pan, tightly wrapped with plastic wrap to prevent drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture rubbery. Instead, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to soften and enhance flavors.
• Remove whipped cream topping before storing to prevent weeping or separation. Add fresh whipped cream just before serving for the best texture and taste.

FAQs on Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

• Why use graham cracker crust for this cheesecake?

Graham cracker crust provides a classic, sweet base that complements the creamy orange flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the smooth cheesecake texture.

• How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Baking the cheesecake in a water bath, not overmixing the batter, and allowing it to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent unsightly cracks on the surface.

• Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work if fresh oranges aren’t available. Just ensure it’s 100% orange juice with no added sugar.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: Approximately 5 hours 20 minutes to overnight (including cooling and refrigeration)
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy orange creamsicle cheesecake brings nostalgic summer memories to life with its tangy citrus twist and silky smooth texture. Dessert enthusiasts will savor each refreshing bite of this classic American treat that combines zesty orange and rich cream cheese perfection.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (453 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup orange juice

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Flavor and Topping Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• Orange food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 325F (163C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Blend graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then firmly press the mixture into the pan’s base to create a compact crust.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
4. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese and sugar until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
5. Incorporate sour cream and blend thoroughly. Gently fold in eggs one at a time, ensuring minimal mixing to maintain a delicate texture.
6. Infuse the mixture with orange juice, orange zest, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, stirring until uniformly combined.
7. Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, using a spatula to create an even, smooth surface.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center stabilizes and edges turn a light golden hue. After baking, switch off the oven and allow the cheesecake to rest inside with the door slightly open for one hour.
9. Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to ensure complete setting and optimal flavor development.
10. Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then artfully spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake.
11. Finish by sprinkling additional orange zest across the top just before serving to enhance visual appeal and citrus aroma.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter that blends effortlessly.
• Avoid overmixing eggs to prevent air bubbles and cracking during baking, which can ruin the cheesecake’s silky texture.
• Use a water bath method by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water to create even, gentle heat and prevent surface cracks.
• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version of this dessert.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 232
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 55 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg