No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe

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Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings

• 1/2 (3-ounce) package orange flavored gelatin (such as Jell-O)
• 1/3 cup boiling water
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 (8-ounce) frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 1 (9 inch) ready-to-use graham cracker pie crust (see Note)
• 1/2 cup drained, canned mandarin oranges in water, patted dry

Directions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful dessert!

1. Gather all ingredients. Make sure you have everything ready before starting the recipe.
2. Whisk the orange gelatin and boiling water in a medium bowl until completely dissolved and slightly cooled, about 2 minutes. Add the orange zest and juice, whisking until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
3. Whisk the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth, about 30 seconds. Gradually whisk in the gelatin mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
4. Whisk in 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and no lumps remain. Refrigerate the creamsicle filling uncovered, allowing it to partially set and thicken slightly for about 30 minutes.
5. Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly, making sure its distributed well within the crust.
6. Cover and refrigerate. Let it set for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight.
7. Before serving, spoon the remaining 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping over the orange layer and spread it evenly.
8. Decorate with mandarin oranges. Arrange the mandarins decoratively on top, sprinkle with extra orange zest, and your dessert is ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1/8 of the recipe):

• Calories: 276
• Total Fat: 18g (23% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (51% DV)
• Cholesterol: 14mg (5% DV)
• Sodium: 166mg (7% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 25g (9% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% DV)
• Total Sugars: 14g
• Protein: 5g (10% DV)
• Vitamin C: 14mg (16% DV)
• Calcium: 28mg (2% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (4% DV)
• Potassium: 103mg (2% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on ingredients used. Always check labels for accuracy.

The Sweet Story of No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie

The No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie draws its inspiration from the iconic creamsicle, a frozen treat that first appeared in the United States during the early 20th century. Originally invented by confectioners experimenting with fruit-flavored ice combined with vanilla ice cream, the creamsicle quickly became a nostalgic summer favorite. This pie captures that same citrusy, creamy essence in an easy-to-make, refrigerator-friendly dessert, making it accessible year-round.

Regional Characteristics

This dessert is particularly popular in North America, where graham cracker crusts and creamy custard-style fillings are traditional. In the southern United States, it is often served chilled at picnics and barbecues during hot summer months. Some regional variations include the addition of mandarin oranges or a layer of orange-flavored gelatin for a brighter color and tangy flavor. In coastal areas, this pie might incorporate local citrus varieties like blood oranges or tangerines for a unique twist.

How It Differs From Similar Desserts

While similar to a standard orange mousse or cheesecake, the No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie distinguishes itself through its combination of whipped topping, cream cheese, and orange gelatin. Unlike traditional baked cheesecakes, this dessert requires no oven, preserving a lighter, airier texture. Compared to frozen creamsicles, it offers a softer, sliceable experience without melting immediately, bridging the gap between ice cream treats and creamy pies.

Where Its Commonly Served

This pie is typically enjoyed as a refreshing conclusion to summer gatherings, family dinners, and holiday buffets. Its visually appealing layers make it popular for festive occasions, while the no-bake preparation is ideal for casual potlucks and backyard barbecues. Restaurants with a focus on American comfort desserts sometimes feature it on seasonal menus, especially during citrus harvest months when fresh oranges are at their peak.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• The concept of the creamsicle was reportedly born when a wooden stick was inserted into frozen ice cream coated with orange-flavored ice, creating the first handheld dessert of its kind.
• No-bake pies like this one became particularly popular in the mid-20th century when refrigeration became more widespread in American households, reducing the need for oven-based desserts during hot summers.
• The pies vibrant orange hue comes not only from gelatin but also from fresh orange zest, which adds both aroma and a subtle tang that enhances the nostalgic creamsicle flavor.
• Adding canned mandarin oranges on top is a modern twist, providing a textural contrast and a visually striking garnish reminiscent of citrus slices in vintage ice cream advertisements.
• Although it is rich in flavor, the whipped topping and light crust keep it surprisingly low in density, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

FAQ about No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe

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