When life gives you oranges, embrace the sweetness and zest with this luscious Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake! This delightful dessert is the perfect blend of creamy, citrusy flavors that will transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake filling infused with fresh orange juice and zest, and a dreamy creamy orange layer topped with whipped cream, this cheesecake is a true celebration of flavor and texture. 💛
This recipe combines the nostalgic taste of orange creamsicles with the luxurious texture of cheesecake, making it an ideal treat for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or simply when you want to indulge in something extraordinary. The vibrant colors and flavors are sure to impress your guests and make any event feel a little more festive. 🍊🎉
Get ready to create a show-stopping dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! Follow the steps below to craft this Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake and elevate your dessert game! 🎊
🎄 Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Recipe 🍰🍊
Servings: 12
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chilling Time: 6 hours
Total Time: Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup white sugar
- 8 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups white sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 oranges)
For the Creamy Orange Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well blended. Press the mixture firmly onto the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with white sugar and flour until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just enough to incorporate. Then mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, heavy cream, orange zest, and orange juice until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set and the top appears dry.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the door closed; let the cheesecake sit in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Make the Creamy Orange Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth. If you desire a brighter color, add a few drops of orange food coloring. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until medium peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the creamy orange layer.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for another 2 hours to allow the creamy orange layer to set properly.
- Serve: Before serving, run a knife around the inside edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, then remove the rim of the springform pan. Garnish with additional orange zest if desired.
🎅 Tips & Variations
- Add Some Zest: Consider mixing in some chopped candied orange peel into the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for the best freshness.
This Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a sweet and zesty dessert that’s sure to brighten up any occasion! Enjoy every creamy, citrusy bite! 🍊💛