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Slice of delicious Orange Cream Cheesecake topped with orange zest

Orange Cream Cheesecake

A delightful no-bake dessert that is creamy, bright, and quick to assemble, perfect for busy cooks and gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 2 cups 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafer crumbs)
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Filling
  • 16 oz 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 1 cup 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2–3 oranges)
  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp orange zest (from 2 oranges), divided
  • 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp plain gelatin + 3 tbsp water (bloomed) — optional for firmer no-bake set
Orange Glaze (optional)
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup orange marmalade
  • 1-2 tbsp 1–2 tbsp water or orange juice to thin
Toppings (optional)
  • Whipped cream, extra zest, or candied orange slices

Method
 

Prep the crust
  1. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs hold together when pressed.
  2. Press the mixture into the bottom of your springform pan (or into an even layer in an 8x8 pan). Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compress it well. Chill in the fridge while you make the filling.
Bloom the gelatin (optional for a firmer cheesecake)
  1. Sprinkle the gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes. Warm gently in a microwave for 10–15 seconds or over very low heat until dissolved. Don’t boil.
Make the orange cream filling
  1. In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and lump-free (about 2–3 minutes).
  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and beat until combined.
  3. Stir in the orange juice and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Mix slowly at first, then increase speed until the batter is silky.
  4. If using gelatin, fold a few spoonfuls of the cream mixture into the warmed gelatin to temper it, then pour the gelatin back into the main bowl and mix until incorporated.
Whip the cream
  1. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to soft peaks. Be careful not to overbeat.
  2. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula until fully combined and airy.
Assemble and chill
  1. Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until set.
Make the glaze (optional)
  1. Warm orange marmalade with 1–2 tablespoons of water or orange juice in a small saucepan until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then spread over the chilled cheesecake before serving or spoon over individual slices.
Serve
  1. Run a sharp knife under hot water and dry before slicing for cleaner edges. Top slices with a dollop of whipped cream, extra zest, or candied orange slices.

Notes

If you prefer a lighter citrus flavor, reduce the orange juice to 1/3 cup and increase zest. Chilling time is non-negotiable for the best texture. Use soft cream cheese for a smooth mix.