Description
Creamy orange dreamsicle magic meets no-bake cheesecake bliss in this irresistible dessert that whispers summer memories. Cool citrus notes and silky texture will make you crave another slice of pure indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Whipped cream (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend thoroughly with melted butter, creating a uniform mixture that will form a solid, compact foundation for the cheesecake.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of a springform pan, ensuring a smooth, consistent base layer.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine cream cheese with powdered sugar, blending until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
- Incorporate vibrant orange zest, fresh orange juice, and pure vanilla extract into the cream cheese blend, stirring until the ingredients are fully integrated and the mixture develops a bright, citrusy aroma.
- In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until it forms stiff, peaks that hold their shape, indicating perfect whipping technique.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the orange-infused cream cheese mixture, using careful circular motions to maintain the cream’s airy texture and prevent deflation.
- Transfer the luscious filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, using a spatula to distribute evenly and create a smooth, level surface.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the dessert to set completely and develop a rich, creamy texture.
- Before serving, optionally garnish with additional whipped cream or a light dusting of orange zest for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly for a solid, compact base that won’t crumble.
- Maximize orange flavor by using fresh orange zest and freshly squeezed juice rather than bottled alternatives for brighter, more vibrant taste.
- Ensure cream cheese is completely room temperature before mixing to achieve ultra-smooth, lump-free filling with silky consistency.
- Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for celiac-friendly version without compromising texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg