No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie

No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie is an incredibly smooth and creamy dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic creamsicle. Perfect for summer, this pie is easy to make and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. If you love this recipe, be sure to try my Orange Creamsicle Mousse for another easy no-bake dessert option!

Achieving the Perfect Creamsicle Flavor

This pie combines the tangy taste of real orange juice with the richness of orange extract, all balanced with a base of powdered sugar and cream cheese. The result is a light, creamy pie that perfectly mimics the flavor of an orange creamsicle.

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Pie

Making this pie is simple, requiring only a few key tips to ensure perfect results.

Room Temperature Cream Cheese

If you can’t set out your cream cheese ahead of time, here’s a quick tip: Remove the cream cheese from its box but keep it in the foil packaging. Place it in a bowl of hot water for about 10-15 minutes to bring it to room temperature.

Tools Matter

To achieve a lump-free, creamy texture, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until light and fluffy before adding other ingredients.

Orange Extract vs. Fresh Orange Juice

If you don’t have orange extract, you can substitute it with additional fresh orange juice. Use the following equivalency:

1 tablespoon fresh orange juice = 1/2 teaspoon orange extract

This recipe requires 1 teaspoon of orange extract, so use 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice if substituting. Adding 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest to the shortbread crust can enhance the orange flavor.

How to Make Shortbread Pie Crust

Crush shortbread cookies and mix with melted butter to form the crust. Press the mixture into an 8-inch (20 centimeters) pie dish, ensuring an even layer.

Whipped Topping vs. Homemade Topping

While store-bought whipped topping provides stability, homemade whipped cream can offer a richer flavor. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade whipped topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1-2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar

Whip until soft peaks form, then add the sugar and continue to whip until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla or orange extract for extra flavor.

Individual Orange Creamsicle Pie Servings

For individual servings, layer crushed shortbread cookies in small cups and fill with the orange mousse. This method allows for more servings, especially if the cups are smaller.

Serving and Chilling

Chilling is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Let the pie chill for at least one hour, up to three days. Add garnishes just before serving to maintain freshness.

Ingredients

Shortbread Pie Crust:

• 6 ounces finely crushed shortbread cookies
• 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Pie Filling:

• 2 packages (16 ounces / 454 grams) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 ⅓ cups (293 grams) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 medium orange, zested (optional) and juiced (about ¼ cup / 60 milliliters)
• 1 tablespoon orange extract (start with 2 teaspoons and taste test)
• 1 pinch kosher salt
• 2 cups (476 grams) whipped topping

Topping:

• 1-2 cups whipped topping, for topping the pie
• 4 wedges of orange, for garnish

Instructions

Shortbread Pie Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the shortbread cookie crumbs with the melted butter.
2. Press the mixture into an 8-inch (20 centimeters) pie dish to form the crust.

Pie Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy.
2. Add confectioners’ sugar, orange juice, orange extract, and salt. Beat until combined. (Add orange zest here if using.)
3. Gently fold in the whipped topping.
4. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth with a spatula.

Topping

1. Spread a layer of whipped topping (about 2 cups / 476 grams) over the filling.
2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 3 days if covered.
3. Garnish with an orange wedge before serving.

Enjoy your No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie, a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!