Tangy Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Bars Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Sweet memories of summer afternoons dance through my nostalgic orange creamsicle cheesecake bars.

Childhood flavors merge with sophisticated dessert crafting in this delightful treat.

Cool, creamy textures promise pure indulgence with every delicate bite.

Tangy citrus notes perfectly complement the rich, smooth cream cheese base.

Layers of vibrant orange and velvety white create a stunning visual masterpiece.

Simple ingredients come together in a magical dessert that feels both familiar and extraordinary.

You will absolutely adore how effortlessly these bars capture classic popsicle magic.

Let’s transform your kitchen into a delectable wonderland of refreshing flavor.

Creamsicle Cheesecake Bars That Brighten Dessert Time

• Perfect for novice bakers with simple step-by-step instructions that guarantee delicious results every single time.
• Packed with fresh orange zest and juice, these bars deliver a vibrant, refreshing twist on classic cheesecake that wakes up your taste buds.
• Prepare the bars in advance and refrigerate overnight, making them ideal for stress-free entertaining or family gatherings where you want impressive desserts without last-minute panic.
• Appeals to both kids and adults with its familiar creamsicle flavor and creamy texture, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Tangy Orange Cheesecake Bars

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic base for a sweet and crunchy foundation.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and helps hold the crust together, best when melted.

• Cream Cheese: Creamy base that gives the cheesecake its signature texture, room temperature recommended.
• Sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tangy cream cheese.
• Eggs: Bind the filling and provide structure, large size preferred.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: Increases richness and creates a silky consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
• Orange Zest: Provides bright, fresh citrus flavor and aromatic essence.
• Fresh Orange Juice: Adds natural orange flavor and moisture.

• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy topping that complements the creamy cheesecake.
• Extra Orange Zest or Slices: Decorative and adds fresh citrus accent.

Put Together Cheesecake Bars Without Baking

Step 1: Create the Crunchy Base

• Heat the oven to 325F (163C).
• Mix together in a bowl
• Graham cracker crumbs
• Sugar
• Melted butter
• Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
• Bake until golden brown for 10-12 minutes.
• Remove and let cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

• Beat cream cheese until silky smooth with an electric mixer.
• Add sugar and blend thoroughly.
• Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
• Stir in
• Sour cream
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Orange zest
• Fresh orange juice
• Pour the luscious mixture over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

• Slide the pan into the oven at 325F (163C).
• Bake 35-40 minutes until center is just set and slightly wiggly.
• Turn off oven, leaving cheesecake inside for another hour.
• Remove and cool to room temperature.
• Refrigerate for 4-6 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Decorate and Devour

• Slice into squares after chilling.
• Top with fluffy whipped cream.
• Sprinkle with extra orange zest.
• Garnish with orange slices if desired.
• Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips to Make Cheesecake Bars Even Better

• Prevent Cracking Technique: Let the cheesecake rest in the turned-off oven for an hour after baking to reduce temperature gradually and prevent surface cracks.
• Zest Like a Pro: Use a microplane or fine grater to get delicate, fragrant orange zest without the bitter white pith underneath.
• Cream Cheese Temperature Trick: Always use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling that blends perfectly.
• Slice Cleanly Method: Wipe your knife with a hot, clean cloth between each cut to create neat, precise cheesecake bar edges.
• Make-Ahead Magic: These bars can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator, making them perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Chill and Store Creamsicle Bars Properly

• Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual bars separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months without losing quality or taste.
• Transfer frozen bars to the refrigerator overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor.
• Warm briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture and prevent potential separation.

Best Matches for Orange Cheesecake Bars

• Mix vodka, fresh orange juice, and a splash of triple sec for a zesty drink that complements the cheesecake's creamy texture and bright orange flavor.
• Scoop premium vanilla bean ice cream next to the cheesecake bars to enhance the creamy notes and provide a cool, smooth contrast to the tangy orange essence.
• Dunk delicate almond biscotti alongside the dessert to add a crunchy texture that balances the soft cheesecake and brings out the orange's subtle undertones.
• Pour chilled prosecco with a hint of fresh orange juice to create a effervescent pairing that elevates the dessert's citrusy profile and adds a celebratory touch.

Ways to Add More Flavor to Cheesecake Bars

• Gluten-Free Crust Variation: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly base that maintains the same delicious texture.
• Dairy-Free Cheesecake Alternative: Swap cream cheese with coconut cream cheese and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream to create a plant-based version suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener and use reduced-fat cream cheese to lower the calorie and sugar content while maintaining a rich, creamy flavor.
• Tropical Citrus Remix: Replace orange juice and zest with a combination of lime and passion fruit for a vibrant, exotic take on the classic orange creamsicle cheesecake bars.

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Creamy orange creamsicle cheesecake bars blend nostalgic summer flavors with rich, tangy cream cheese. Cool citrus notes and graham cracker crust create a dreamy dessert that transports senses to childhood memories, tempting you to savor each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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Cheesecake Bars Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (450 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar

Crust Ingredients:

• 2 cups (200 grams) graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar

Additional Ingredients:

• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) sour cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) orange marmalade
• 1 tablespoon water
• Orange food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

1. Craft a buttery foundation by pulverizing graham crackers with sugar and melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into a prepared baking pan.
2. Toast the crust briefly in a preheated oven until it achieves a delicate golden hue, then allow it to cool completely.
3. Whip cream cheese until silky smooth, gradually incorporating sugar to create a velvety base.
4. Gently fold in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is thoroughly integrated without overmixing.
5. Introduce sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, vibrant orange zest, and fresh citrus juice, blending until the mixture becomes uniform and luxuriously creamy.
6. Cascade the luscious cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly to create a perfect layer.
7. Slide the pan into the oven, baking at a gentle temperature until the center sets with a subtle tremor when nudged.
8. After initial baking, allow the cheesecake to rest in the warm oven, which helps prevent unsightly surface cracks.
9. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator, letting it chill thoroughly for several hours or overnight to develop maximum flavor intensity.
10. When ready to serve, slice into elegant squares and embellish with billowy whipped cream and a sprinkle of zesty orange garnish.
11. Present these decadent creamsicle-inspired bars, celebrating the harmonious blend of tangy citrus and rich, creamy cheesecake.

Notes

• Crumb Consistency Matters: Use fine graham cracker crumbs for a smoother, more compact crust that holds together perfectly when cutting the bars.
• Temperature Control is Key: Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free filling that blends seamlessly.
• Prevent Cheesecake Cracks: The slow cooling method in the oven helps prevent unsightly surface cracks, creating a beautifully smooth and professional-looking dessert.
• Dietary Adaptations: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives or use almond flour for a low-carb version that maintains the delightful orange creamsicle flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg