There’s something magical about the nostalgic flavor of creamsicles that instantly transports us back to childhood summers. This Jello Creamsicle Pie captures that perfect balance of tangy orange and smooth vanilla cream in a refreshing, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.
With its vibrant orange hue and cloud-like texture, this pie is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. The best part? It comes together in minutes, then sets in your refrigerator while you attend to other things, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy hosts.
Why You’ll Love This
- No baking required – perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven
- Only requires a handful of simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store
- Make-ahead friendly – prepare it up to 24 hours before serving
- Refreshing and light dessert that won’t weigh you down after a meal
- Nostalgic flavor combination that appeals to both kids and adults
Ingredients
- 3 cups shortbread cookies
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 orange, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 1 box of orange Jello (3-ounce)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 8 ounces cool whip
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14-ounce)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cool whip
- Orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- Spray a deep pie dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Pulse the shortbread cookies in a food processor until they reach a sand-like consistency. In a mixing bowl, mix the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie dish. Place the crust in the freezer while you make the filling.
- Rinse out the food processor and add the peeled orange slices, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice. Puree until smooth and set aside.
- In a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer), combine 8 ounces of cream cheese and the orange Jello mix. Beat until smooth and well incorporated.
- Fold in the sweetened condensed milk along with 8 ounces of Cool Whip until fully combined.
- Beat the orange juice mixture into the filling until well blended.
- Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the filling into it, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours for a soft-serve texture, or freeze for about 1 hour for a more frozen dessert consistency.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the remaining 4 ounces of cream cheese and 4 ounces of Cool Whip together until smooth.
- Spread or pipe the cream cheese whipped topping over the chilled pie and garnish with fresh orange slices. Serve cold or frozen, depending on your preference.
Tips & Variations
- For a homemade touch, make your own graham cracker crust instead of using store-bought.
- Try different gelatin flavors like lime or strawberry for different “creamsicle” variations.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract along with the vanilla for an extra punch of citrus flavor.
- For a lighter version, use fat-free sweetened condensed milk and light whipped topping.
- Make individual servings by preparing in small cups or ramekins instead of a pie crust.
- If your mixture seems too runny, chill it for 10-15 more minutes before pouring into the crust.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing Jello Creamsicle Pie is perfect on its own, but for an extra special presentation, serve with a dollop of additional whipped topping and a small wedge of fresh orange. For a complete summer dessert spread, pair with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
This pie makes an excellent finale to outdoor barbecues, pool parties, or any summer gathering where a cool, refreshing dessert is appreciated.
Notes
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The pie is ready when it feels firm to the touch and doesn’t jiggle in the center.
- For best results, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to get clean slices.
- Allow about 10 minutes at room temperature before serving if the pie has been refrigerated overnight.
FAQs
Can I freeze this Jello Creamsicle Pie?
While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, wrap tightly and consume within 1 month.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, but the pie may not hold its structure as well. If using homemade whipped cream, stabilize it with 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin.
Why didn’t my pie set properly?
Make sure to allow the gelatin mixture to cool and thicken slightly before adding other ingredients, and give it sufficient time (at least 4 hours) to set in the refrigerator.
Can I make this pie sugar-free?
Yes, use sugar-free gelatin and a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk alternative, though the texture may be slightly different.
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