Description
Orange Creamsicle Bars are a refreshing, creamy dessert inspired by the classic orange-and-vanilla frozen treat loved for generations. Combining the bright citrus flavor of fresh oranges with a silky vanilla cream filling, these bars capture the nostalgic taste of an Orange Creamsicle in every bite. Resting on a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream, they’re an easy dessert that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings, holidays, birthdays, or anytime you crave something light yet indulgent.
Ingredients
🍪 For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
🍊 For the Orange Cream Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
🍦 For the Topping
- 1½ cups whipped cream
- Orange zest
- Orange slices
- White chocolate curls (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking the crust.
In a medium bowl combine:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Melted butter
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
Mix until evenly moistened.
Press firmly into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool completely.
For a no-bake version, refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes instead of baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl beat:
- Cream cheese
until smooth and creamy.
Add:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Orange juice
- Orange zest
- Vanilla extract
- Orange extract (if using)
Beat until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate chilled bowl beat:
- Heavy whipping cream
- Powdered sugar
until stiff peaks form.
Fold the whipped cream gently into the orange cream cheese mixture using a spatula.
Mix only until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Spread the orange filling evenly over the cooled crust.
Smooth the top with an offset spatula.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 5: Decorate
Before serving, spread or pipe whipped cream over the top.
Garnish with:
- Fresh orange slices
- Orange zest
- White chocolate curls
- Mint leaves
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.
Wipe the blade clean between each slice for perfect bars.
Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest flavor.
- Bring the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing.
- Chill the bars thoroughly before slicing.
- Fold the whipped cream gently to keep the filling light and airy.
- Avoid overmixing after adding the whipped cream.
- Store refrigerated at all times.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time:: 6 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 5g