Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

The Dreamiest Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Summer’s sweet nostalgia comes alive with this dreamy orange creamsicle cheesecake that captures childhood memories in every delectable bite.

Velvety cream cheese blends seamlessly with vibrant citrus notes for a dessert that sparks pure joy.

The classic frozen treat inspires this decadent cheesecake, promising a refreshing twist on a beloved classic.

Zesty orange essence weaves through a silky smooth filling, creating a harmonious balance of tangy and sweet.

Layers of creamy goodness await you in each luxurious slice.

A graham cracker crust provides the perfect crisp foundation for this irresistible dessert.

Let this orange creamsicle cheesecake be the star of your next gathering, tempting everyone with its irresistible charm.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Tempting Features

  • Craft an Irresistible Dessert: This orange creamsicle cheesecake transforms ordinary baking into a spectacular flavor adventure that delights every sweet lover.
  • Wow Your Guests: Impressive layered design creates a stunning visual presentation that looks professionally made, yet is surprisingly achievable for home bakers.
  • Perfect Flavor Fusion: Combines classic creamy cheesecake with bright, zesty orange notes that deliver a nostalgic creamsicle taste experience in every single bite.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows beautiful marbling or clean layering techniques, giving bakers creative freedom to personalize their dessert masterpiece.

What Goes Into Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Main Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: The base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the rich and creamy texture of the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a smooth texture.
  • Heavy Cream: Contributes to the creamy consistency of the filling.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Orange Zest: Provides a fresh and intense orange flavor.
  • Orange Juice: Adds natural citrus taste.
  • Vanilla Extract: Gives a classic vanilla undertone.
  • Orange Extract: Intensifies the orange flavor.
Coloring and Chocolate:
  • White Chocolate: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the filling.
  • Orange Gel Food Coloring: Creates the vibrant orange color in the cheesecake layer.
Topping:
  • Whipped Cream: Adds a light and airy texture to the finished dessert.
  • White Chocolate: Used for drizzling and extra indulgence.
  • Orange Slice: Provides a fresh garnish and visual appeal.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare The Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.

Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 8 minutes.

Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 2: Create Cheesecake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Blend in the following ingredients:
  • Sour cream
  • Heavy cream
  • Orange zest
  • Orange juice
  • Vanilla extract
  • Orange extract

Fold in melted white chocolate until fully integrated.

Divide the batter into two separate bowls.

Leave one half as a vanilla white layer and tint the other half with orange gel food coloring to create a vibrant orange layer.

Step 3: Layer And Bake The Cheesecake

Pour the vanilla batter into the prepared crust as the first layer.

Carefully add the orange-colored batter on top.

Create a marbled effect by gently swirling the layers or keep them distinctly separated.

Bake at 325°F for 50-55 minutes until the center is just set but slightly jiggly.

Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar.

This helps prevent cracking and ensures a smooth texture.

Step 4: Craft White Chocolate Glaze

Warm heavy cream in a small saucepan until hot but not boiling.

Pour the hot cream over white chocolate chips.

Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Allow the glaze to cool slightly before drizzling over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 5: Decorate And Serve

Garnish the cheesecake with dollops of whipped cream and a fresh orange slice.

Drizzle additional melted white chocolate for an extra luxurious touch.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Slice and enjoy the creamy, citrusy delight!

Smart Tips for Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

  • Use fresh graham crackers for a crisp, rich base that complements the creamy cheesecake perfectly.
  • Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water to ensure smooth, crack-free cheesecake surface.
  • Use a toothpick or thin knife to create gentle marble patterns when combining orange and vanilla layers for a professional-looking dessert.
  • Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to guarantee a ultra-smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
  • Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between each cut for picture-perfect, clean cheesecake slices that showcase beautiful layers.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Mix In Ideas

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream cheese, swap heavy cream for coconut cream, and use dairy-free white chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Gluten-Free Goodness: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a celiac-friendly crust.
  • Citrus Swap Challenge: Experiment with different citrus flavors by replacing orange zest and juice with lemon, lime, or grapefruit for a tangy alternative.
  • Low-Sugar Solution: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, and opt for sugar-free white chocolate to reduce overall sugar content.

Serving Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

  • Creamy Citrus Delight: Pair this orange creamsicle cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a refreshing contrast.
  • Brunch Showstopper: Serve alongside fresh mimosas or orange-infused coffee to elevate your weekend gathering with a zesty touch.
  • Elegant Presentation: Garnish individual slices with candied orange peel, a sprinkle of orange zest, or a delicate mint leaf for a professional restaurant-style finish.
  • Dessert Wine Companion: Match with a chilled late-harvest Riesling or a sweet Moscato to complement the cheesecake's citrusy and creamy profile.

Storage Tips for Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

  • Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
  • Wrap the cheesecake securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
  • Let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance its flavors.
  • Store individual slices in sealed containers for quick and easy grab-and-go treats throughout the week.

FAQs

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Use room temperature ingredients, mix ingredients gently, avoid overmixing, and bake in a water bath. Cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent sudden temperature changes.

  • Can I substitute white chocolate in the recipe?

Yes, you can use vanilla pudding mix or increase the vanilla extract for similar creaminess. If skipping white chocolate, add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream to maintain the texture.

  • How do I know when the cheesecake is perfectly baked?

The edges will be set, but the center should have a slight jiggle (like jello) when gently shaken. It will continue to set while cooling. Overbaking leads to a dry, cracked cheesecake.

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Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe


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4.5 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy orange creamsicle cheesecake beckons with nostalgic summer flavors, blending tangy citrus and rich cream cheese in a dreamy dessert. Cool slices promise pure indulgence that will transport guests to memories of childhood frozen treats.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange extract
  • Orange gel food coloring (optional)

Finishing Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Orange slices (optional)
  • White chocolate drizzle (optional)

Instructions

  1. Craft a buttery foundation by blending graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even base. Bake at 325°F for 8 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar until velvety smooth. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough integration after each addition. Gently fold in sour cream, heavy cream, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla and orange extracts. Melt white chocolate and delicately fold into the creamy mixture.
  3. Separate the cheesecake batter into two distinct portions. Keep one section pristine white, while transforming the other into a vibrant orange layer using gel food coloring. Carefully pour vanilla batter into the prepared crust, then layer the orange batter on top.
  4. Create elegant marbling by gently swirling the two layers using a knife or leave them distinctly separated. Place in the preheated oven at 325°F and bake for 50-55 minutes until the center appears just set but slightly jiggly.
  5. After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually and prevent cracking. Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or ideally overnight to achieve perfect texture.
  6. Prepare white chocolate glaze by heating heavy cream until steaming. Pour over white chocolate chips, stirring until achieving a silky smooth consistency. Let cool slightly before drizzling over the chilled cheesecake.
  7. Enhance presentation by piping whipped cream along the edges, garnishing with fresh orange slices, and adding an artistic drizzle of additional melted white chocolate. Slice and serve chilled for an indulgent dessert experience.

Notes

  • Use a measuring cup or the bottom of a glass to press graham cracker mixture evenly, creating a compact and sturdy base.
  • Add a pinch of orange zest to the crust for an extra citrusy kick that complements the cheesecake filling.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and use room temperature ingredients to create a smooth, crack-free surface.
  • Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives and use dairy-free cream cheese for a gluten-free and vegan-friendly version.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 25 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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