Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with a burst of citrusy goodness? Look no further than this irresistible Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake recipe! With its creamy texture, zesty orange flavor, and delightful cookie crust, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this cheesecake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Join us as we dive into the delightful world of Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake and discover how to make this mouthwatering dessert from scratch.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the refreshing citrus flavor of orange. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply treating yourself to something sweet. With its bright orange color and light, fluffy texture, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, with our easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious dessert in no time. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 1 pouch of Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix OR 1 pre-made pie crust if you want totally ‘No Bake”
• 3/4 + 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 8 oz boxes of cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream + 1 cup for the topping
• 1 3 oz box of orange-flavored jello
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 orange, zested
• 1/4 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon for the topping of vanilla extract
• 1 disposable piping bag with star tip

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using the Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix, follow the instructions on the package to prepare the dough. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Allow the crust to cool completely before proceeding.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add 3/4 cup of powdered sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Orange Gelatin Layer

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the orange-flavored jello in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
2. Allow the jello mixture to cool to room temperature.
3. Once cooled, pour the jello mixture over the cheesecake filling, spreading it out evenly.
4. Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, remove it from the refrigerator.
2. Pipe dollops of whipped cream around the edge of the cheesecake.
3. Sprinkle the zest of one orange over the whipped cream for garnish.
4. Slice and serve your Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake, and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Graham Cracker Crust: If you prefer a classic graham cracker crust, simply substitute graham cracker crumbs for the sugar cookie mix.
• Orange Extract: For an extra burst of orange flavor, add a few drops of orange extract to the cheesecake filling.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cheesecake for a decadent finishing touch.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

To make this recipe keto-friendly, you can use almond flour or coconut flour to create a low-carb crust. Substitute the powdered sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia, and use a sugar-free orange gelatin mix. Additionally, opt for full-fat cream cheese and heavy whipping cream to keep the carb count low.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use fresh oranges instead of orange-flavored jello? A: Yes, you can use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest instead of orange-flavored jello for a more natural orange flavor. Simply substitute the jello and water with 1 cup of orange juice and adjust the sweetness to taste.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Add the whipped cream topping and garnish just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of cookie crust? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cookie crusts, such as graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies, to create a unique flavor profile for your cheesecake.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of a creamsicle with the creamy richness of cheesecake. With its light and refreshing taste, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of citrusy desserts or simply looking for something new to try, this cheesecake is sure to please. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of this delicious dessert today!