Introduction

Orange Creamsicle Dream Bars are a refreshing and creamy treat that captures the nostalgic flavor of the classic creamsicle. With a crunchy Nilla wafer crust, tangy orange gelatin, and smooth cream cheese layers, these bars are perfect for any occasion.

Three slices of a dessert with three layers sit on white plates on a white marbled surface. Each slice has a crumbly brown base layer, a middle creamy white layer, and a smooth, thick orange top layer. On top of each slice is a swirl of white whipped cream with a bright orange slice inserted into it. A metal fork rests on the plate in the front, and there are extra orange slices and a round cookie next to the plates. The background shows white subway tiles. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces Cool Whip (divided into 3 separate cups)
1 ⅓ cups Nilla Wafer cookie crumbs
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 ounces orange gelatin
3/4 cup boiling water
3/4 cup cold water
8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 teaspoons orange extract
8 drops orange Wilton Gel Food Color (optional)
8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup Cool Whip

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to allow easy removal of the bars for slicing.
Step 2: Melt 5 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds, stirring and melting for an additional 5-10 seconds if needed.
Step 3: Pulse the Nilla Wafers in a food processor until finely ground. Combine the cookie crumbs with the melted butter using a rubber spatula until well mixed.
Step 4: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Place the pan in the freezer for at least 30 minutes while preparing the remaining layers.
Step 5: In a 2-cup measuring cup, dissolve the orange gelatin in 3/4 cup boiling water, stirring thoroughly. Add 3/4 cup cold water and stir again. Refrigerate until the mixture is completely cooled but not set, about 10 minutes.
Step 6: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with powdered sugar, orange extract, and orange food coloring (if using) until smooth.
Step 7: Slowly add the chilled gelatin mixture to the cream cheese while mixing continuously to achieve a smooth consistency. Refrigerate this orange cream mixture for one hour to thicken.
Step 8: In another bowl, beat the remaining 8 ounces of cream cheese with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until creamy. Fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip using a rubber spatula.
Step 9: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the frozen crust using an offset spatula.
Step 10: Fold the remaining 2 cups of Cool Whip into the chilled orange cream mixture until smooth and well combined.
Step 11: Pour the orange cream layer gently over the cheesecake layer and spread evenly with an offset spatula.
Step 12: Refrigerate the assembled bars overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow layers to set properly before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use vanilla or orange-flavored wafers for an added burst of flavor in the crust.
For a more natural color, substitute the orange food coloring with fresh orange zest.
Chill gelatin mixture thoroughly but avoid letting it set to ensure a smooth orange cream layer.
Try swapping orange extract for lemon or lime extract to create different citrus flavors.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the creamy layers.

How to Serve

The image shows a slice of a three-layered dessert on a white plate with a silver fork beside it. The bottom layer is a textured brown crust, likely made of crushed cookies or nuts. Above the crust is a smooth, white creamy middle layer. The top layer is thick and light orange with a creamy texture. On top of the dessert, there is a swirl of white whipped cream with a bright orange slice placed behind it. In the background, a glass bottle of milk with two orange and white striped straws is partially visible, placed on a white marbled surface with a tiled white wall behind. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used as a substitute, but be sure it is stabilized to maintain the structure of the bars.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Chilling the crust in the freezer before adding the layers helps it firm up and stay crisp. Pressing the crust firmly and evenly also creates a sturdy base.