Description
This Orange Creamsicle Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert combining a crisp graham cracker crust with a creamy, citrus-infused filling. Inspired by the classic creamsicle, it features a luscious blend of cream cheese, whipped cream, and fresh orange juice and zest, making it a refreshing and crowd-pleasing treat perfect for warm weather or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 packet (1 oz) unflavored gelatin (optional for a firmer texture)
For Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Orange slices or zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to create an even layer.
- Bake the crust: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling to prevent melting or sogginess.
- Make the filling base: In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Whip the cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream is firm enough to fold without deflating.
- Combine cream cheese and whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture carefully, preserving the fluffy texture while combining both ingredients evenly.
- Add citrus flavor: Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract to incorporate the signature creamsicle flavor throughout the filling.
- Add gelatin for firmness (optional): If you prefer a firmer pie texture, dissolve the unflavored gelatin powder in about 1/4 cup of warm water until fully dissolved, then gently fold it into the filling mixture.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the creamy orange filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the surface neatly with a spatula for an even finish.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish before serving: Once set, top the pie with a generous amount of whipped cream and garnish with orange slices or zest, if desired, for an elegant presentation and added citrus punch.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for best flavor and brightness in the filling.
- Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling to prevent melting or sogginess.
- The gelatin is optional but recommended if you want a firmer pie that slices cleanly.
- This pie is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- You can substitute a pre-made graham cracker crust for convenience, but baking it yourself adds a fresher taste and better texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the powdered sugar in the filling by 1-2 tablespoons.
