Print

Orange Creamsicle Dream Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 53 reviews

These Orange Creamsicle Dream Bars are a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crisp Nilla wafer crust, a smooth, tangy orange gelatin cream layer, and a rich, creamy cheesecake topping. Perfectly chilled and set overnight, they create a dreamy combination reminiscent of a classic creamsicle treat, ideal for summer gatherings or a refreshing dessert anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 ⅓ cups Nilla Wafer Cookie Crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter

Orange Gelatin Layer

  • 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)
  • 2 cups Cool Whip (divided)

Cheesecake Layer

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Cool Whip

Instructions

  1. Prepare Nilla Wafer Crust: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to easily remove bars later. Melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds, stirring and reheating briefly if needed. Process Nilla Wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor, then combine crumbs with melted butter until fully incorporated. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Place the pan in the freezer for at least 30 minutes while preparing the next layers.
  2. Make Orange Gelatin: In a 2-cup measuring container, dissolve the orange gelatin powder in 3/4 cup boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add 3/4 cup cold water and stir again. Refrigerate this mixture until it is completely cooled but not yet set, about 10 minutes.
  3. Prepare Orange Cream Layer: Beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with powdered sugar, orange extract, and optional orange gel food coloring until smooth. Slowly incorporate the chilled orange gelatin mixture into the cream cheese blend while mixing thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency. Chill this orange cream mixture in the refrigerator for one hour to thicken.
  4. Make Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and pure vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip using a rubber spatula.
  5. Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Remove the crust from the freezer and place dollops of the cheesecake mixture over it. Spread evenly using an offset spatula to form a uniform layer.
  6. Combine Remaining Cool Whip and Orange Cream: Fold the remaining 2 cups of Cool Whip into the chilled orange cream mixture until fully combined, soft, and smooth.
  7. Add Orange Cream Layer: Gently pour the orange cream mixture over the cheesecake layer in the pan. Spread evenly with an offset spatula for a flawless finish.
  8. Chill Bars: Refrigerate the assembled bars overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow layers to set completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together well after freezing.
  • Pour the chilled gelatin mixture slowly into the cream cheese to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, consistent texture.
  • Allow adequate chilling time for each layer to set properly for the best texture and ease of slicing.
  • If desired, adjust the orange gel food coloring for a more vibrant look.
  • Use parchment paper with overhang for easy removal of bars from the pan.

Keywords: Orange Creamsicle Bars, No-Bake Dessert, Orange Gelatin Bars, Cheesecake Bars, Summer Dessert, Cool Whip Dessert

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/orange-creamsicle-dream-bars-recipe/