Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe

The Dreamy Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe You’ll Adore

Summers call for cool, refreshing desserts like this tantalizing orange creamsicle pie that transports you to childhood memories.

Sweet citrus notes dance with creamy textures, promising delightful moments of pure indulgence.

Silky smooth filling nestles into a crisp graham cracker base, creating a dreamy contrast of flavors.

Zesty orange essence weaves through each decadent bite, awakening nostalgic feelings of lazy afternoons.

Minimal ingredients and simple preparation make this dessert accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Delicate swirls of whipped cream crown this nostalgic treat, inviting you to savor every magnificent spoonful.

Grab a fork and let the magic begin!

FAQs

  • How can I ensure my pie filling sets properly?

Make sure to dissolve the gelatin completely in boiling water and let it cool to room temperature before mixing with other ingredients. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to set firmly.

  • Can I use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought?

Yes, fresh orange juice works perfectly! Just ensure it’s strained to remove pulp and measure the exact amount needed for consistent flavor and texture.

  • What if I don't have a stand mixer for whipping cream?

You can use a hand mixer or even whisk the cream vigorously by hand. The key is to whip until soft peaks form, which means the cream holds its shape but isn’t too stiff.

Why Orange Creamsicle Pie Is a Delight

  • Create a Nostalgic Dessert: Rediscover childhood memories with this creamy orange dreamsicle-inspired pie that brings back sweet summer moments.
  • Minimal Prep Magic: Assemble this stunning dessert with just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen skills, making it perfect for novice bakers looking to impress.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Versatile enough for summer gatherings, potlucks, or family celebrations, this pie offers a refreshing twist on traditional desserts that everyone will adore.
  • Chill and Serve Convenience: No baking required for the filling means you can prepare this dessert ahead of time, letting it set in the refrigerator while you focus on other party preparations.

Ingredients for Orange Creamsicle Pie

Crust Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the pie.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds rich flavor.
  • Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the crust.
Filling Components:
  • Orange Gelatin: Adds vibrant orange flavor and helps set the pie's creamy texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Creates a rich and smooth base for the filling.
  • Orange Juice: Provides fresh, bright citrus flavor to the pie.
  • Orange Zest: Intensifies the orange flavor with its concentrated citrus oils.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the overall taste.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a light and airy texture when whipped.
Topping and Garnish:
  • Whipped Cream, Mandarin Orange Slices, Orange Zest: Adds a decorative and flavorful finish to the pie.

How to Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie

Step 1: Craft the Crunchy Base

Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until they create a sandy texture. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, creating an even, compact layer.

Slide the crust into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Create the Dreamy Orange Filling

Dissolve orange gelatin in boiling water, stirring until completely smooth.

Add cold water and let the mixture cool to room temperature. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, fresh orange juice, vibrant orange zest, and vanilla extract.

Whip heavy cream until soft, pillowy peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the orange mixture, then carefully incorporate the cooled gelatin until everything blends seamlessly.

Step 3: Pour and Chill the Pie

Transfer the luscious filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pie in the refrigerator and let it set for at least 4 hours, allowing the filling to become perfectly firm and creamy.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Once the pie has set, top it with billowy whipped cream. For an extra pop of flavor and color, sprinkle fresh orange zest and arrange delicate mandarin orange slices on top.

Slice and serve the pie chilled, revealing its cool, refreshing layers.

Tips for Perfect Orange Creamsicle Pie

  • Refrigerate graham cracker crust for at least 30 minutes to create a firm, crisp base that prevents soggy bottoms and helps the pie hold its shape perfectly.
  • Allow dissolved gelatin to cool to room temperature before adding to the mixture, preventing unwanted clumping and ensuring a smooth, silky filling texture.
  • Use a light folding technique when incorporating whipped cream and gelatin to maintain the airy volume and prevent deflating the delicate mixture.
  • Use fresh orange zest and high-quality orange juice to intensify the bright, tangy notes throughout the creamsicle pie, creating a more vibrant taste experience.

Variations for Orange Creamsicle Pie

  • Tropical Citrus Remix: Replace orange juice with pineapple juice and add shredded coconut to the crust for a Hawaiian-inspired version.
  • Dairy-Free Dream: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free condensed milk for a lactose-free alternative.
  • Keto-Friendly Fix: Create a nut-based crust using almond flour, replace sugar with stevia, and use sugar-free orange gelatin to make a low-carb version.
  • Vegan Citrus Celebration: Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream, coconut condensed milk, and agar-agar instead of gelatin for a plant-based adaptation.

Pairings for Orange Creamsicle Pie

Serve a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream alongside the pie to enhance the creamy orange flavors and provide a cool, complementary texture.

Choose a light, sweet white wine with citrus undertones that will highlight the pie’s bright orange notes and provide a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy a chilled cold brew coffee with subtle hints of caramel and chocolate to balance the pie’s sweetness and add depth to the dessert experience.

Garnish the plate with delicate candied orange slices that echo the pie’s citrus profile and add an elegant, textural element to the dessert presentation.

Storage Tips for Orange Creamsicle Pie

  • Place pie in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
  • Wrap pie securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid adding whipped cream topping before freezing.
  • Transfer frozen pie to refrigerator overnight. Allow 4-6 hours for complete thawing. Do not thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Not recommended for this chilled dessert. Serve directly from refrigerator for best texture and flavor. Whipped cream may lose structure if warmed.
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Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe

Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy orange creamsicle pie brings nostalgic summer flavors dancing across your palate with tangy citrus and smooth vanilla notes. Chilled dessert perfection awaits you, promising a delightful escape into refreshing, cool indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients:

  • 200 grams (7 ounces) graham cracker crumbs
  • 100 grams (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Filling Ingredients:

  • 1 package (85 grams or 3 ounces) orange-flavored gelatin
  • 1/2 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 can (395 grams or 14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • Orange zest
  • Mandarin orange slices (optional)

Instructions

  1. Craft a graham cracker base by blending crumbs with melted butter and sugar until thoroughly integrated.
  2. Compress the mixture uniformly into a 9-inch pie dish, creating a compact foundation.
  3. Chill the crust for 30 minutes in the refrigerator to solidify its structure.
  4. Dissolve orange gelatin completely in boiling water, then incorporate cold water and allow to cool to ambient temperature.
  5. Whisk sweetened condensed milk with fresh orange juice, zesty orange rind, and pure vanilla extract in a separate mixing vessel.
  6. Whip heavy cream until it develops soft, billowy peaks that hold their shape.
  7. Gently incorporate whipped cream into the citrusy mixture, maintaining a light, airy texture.
  8. Fold the cooled gelatin into the creamy orange base, ensuring thorough but delicate integration.
  9. Transfer the silky filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an elegant finish.
  10. Refrigerate the pie for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing it to set completely and develop a firm, creamy consistency.
  11. Once firmly set, adorn the pie with delicate dollops of whipped cream.
  12. Optional: Sprinkle additional orange zest and arrange mandarin orange segments for a vibrant garnish.
  13. Serve thoroughly chilled for maximum flavor and textural enjoyment.

Notes

  • Boost crust stability by adding a pinch of salt to graham cracker mixture, enhancing overall flavor depth.
  • Ensure gelatin completely cools before mixing to prevent cream deflation and maintain smooth pie texture.
  • Zest oranges before juicing for maximum flavor extraction and more vibrant citrus notes.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to help everything blend seamlessly and create a silkier filling consistency.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Refrigerating
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 289 kcal
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 115 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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