If you’re craving a dessert that tastes like childhood summers wrapped in a creamy, citrusy dream, you absolutely have to try this Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe. This no-bake delight captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic orange creamsicle in pie form, featuring a light and fluffy vanilla-orange filling balanced perfectly with tangy mandarin oranges and a crisp graham cracker crust. It’s refreshingly simple to make but impressively flavorful, making it an ideal way to brighten up any gathering or simply treat yourself on a sunny day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the pie’s luscious texture and vibrant flavor. From the tart, juicy mandarin oranges to the creamy vanilla-yogurt base, every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tang.
- Graham Cracker Crust: The buttery, crunchy foundation adds wonderful texture and sweetness to the pie.
- 15 ounces Mandarin Oranges: Fresh and juicy, they bring a bright pop of citrus and subtle sweetness; keep the juice to enhance the gelatin.
- 3.4 ounces Orange Jello Mix: This packs in pure orange flavor and helps the filling set perfectly without baking.
- 12 ounces Orange Creamsicle Yogurt: Provides that creamy vanilla-orange taste reminiscent of the classic frozen treat.
- 8 ounces Whipped Cream: Adds airy lightness and a silky finish; plus, extra whipped cream on top is totally encouraged!
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Orange Gelatin Base
Start by stirring the orange jello mix together with 1/4 cup of the reserved mandarin orange juice in a large glass bowl. Microwave on high for one minute until fully dissolved. Then, pop that bowl in the fridge for about 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture thickens just enough to create a smooth yet firm base. This step ensures your pie filling sets beautifully without losing any of the refreshing jiggly texture.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Filling
Once your gelatin mixture has reached that perfect consistency, whisk in the orange creamsicle yogurt and the whipped cream (or Cool Whip). This combination forms the fluffy, creamy heart of the pie that tastes just like the ice cream treat but in a luscious sliceable form. Be gentle when mixing so you keep the airy texture intact.
Step 3: Add the Mandarin Oranges
Fold in about half a cup of chopped mandarin oranges to the creamy filling. These little bursts of citrus not only add vibrant color but also a contrast of texture and juiciness that brings the pie fully alive. It’s like the pie’s secret weapon for that fresh, fruity zing.
Step 4: Fill the Graham Cracker Crust
Pour the luscious orange cream mixture into your graham cracker crust, smoothing it gently to create an even layer. This crust provides a subtly crunchy and buttery counterpoint that keeps each bite satisfying. Then, decorate the top with dollops of whipped cream and some whole mandarin oranges for a pretty, inviting finish.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least four hours to let it set fully. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for perfect slicing. If you want a firmer, frozen delight, pop it in the freezer for two hours instead. Either way, patience pays off with a pie that’s light, icy, and irresistibly creamy.
How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To truly elevate your Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe serving experience, add fresh garnishes like extra whipped cream swirls or fresh mandarin slices on top. A sprinkle of orange zest or even some toasted coconut flakes brings an amazing aroma and complements the pie’s creamy citrus flavors exhilarantly.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with simple fresh fruit salads or light, crisp green salads to contrast the dessert’s bold creaminess. A cup of herbal tea or a cold glass of sparkling water with an orange wedge also makes for a refreshing accompaniment that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the pie.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the pie in individual clear cups layered with crushed graham crackers and mandarin segments for a mini parfait effect. You can also drizzle a bit of honey or orange syrup on top, or present slices with a side of candied orange peel for a gourmet appearance that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and maintain its creamy texture for up to three days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for parties or casual treat times.
Freezing
This pie freezes beautifully for up to one month. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for a perfectly creamy slice that still holds its vibrant orange flavor.
Reheating
Because this is a no-bake, chilled pie, reheating is not recommended as it will lose the signature creamy texture and refreshing qualities. Instead, enjoy it cold or slightly thawed if you’ve frozen it.
FAQs
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of mandarin juice?
Yes, fresh orange juice can be used as a substitute, but mandarin juice adds a sweeter, less tart flavor that is characteristic of this pie. Fresh juice might make the pie slightly more tangy.
Is it necessary to use orange creamsicle yogurt?
While orange creamsicle yogurt gives the pie its unique nostalgic flavor, you can substitute plain or vanilla yogurt and add a splash of orange extract if you want a similar effect. However, the creamsicle yogurt truly makes this recipe special.
Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
Making this recipe vegan would require substituting the yogurt and whipped cream with plant-based alternatives and ensuring the gelatin is replaced with a vegan-friendly gelling agent like agar-agar. The texture and taste may vary slightly, but it’s definitely possible!
How long does the pie need to chill before serving?
The pie needs at least four hours in the fridge to fully set and develop its best texture. If you’re short on time, freezing for two hours works too, but chilling overnight produces the creamiest results.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use a larger pie dish or make two pies. The process remains the same, though chilling times might be a bit longer depending on the depth of your pie.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s the perfect blend of easy, refreshing, and flavorful. Whether you’re new to no-bake desserts or a seasoned pie lover, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and brighten up any occasion. So grab the ingredients, whip it up, and enjoy that heavenly bite of summer bliss!
PrintOrange Creamsicle Pie Recipe
This easy no-bake Orange Creamsicle Pie is a refreshing summer dessert that combines creamy vanilla orange flavors with a light and fluffy texture. Made with yogurt, whipped cream, orange gelatin, and mandarin oranges, it delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and citrus tang in a crunchy graham cracker crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 Graham Cracker Crust
Filling
- 15 ounces Mandarin oranges, 1 can drained (juice reserved)
- 3.4 ounces Orange Jello mix
- 12 ounces Orange creamsicle yogurt (2 containers)
- 8 ounces Whipped Cream (plus more for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare gelatin mixture: In a large glass bowl, combine the orange gelatin powder with 1/4 cup of the reserved mandarin orange juice. Microwave it on high for 1 minute until the gelatin dissolves completely. Then, place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow it to thicken.
- Mix filling: Once the gelatin mixture has thickened, whisk in the orange creamsicle yogurt and whipped cream (Cool Whip). Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped mandarin oranges to add texture and bursts of citrus flavor.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the prepared filling evenly into the graham cracker crust. Top the pie with dollops of whipped cream and arrange whole mandarin oranges decoratively on top if desired.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate the pie for approximately 4 hours until it is fully set. For an alternate frozen version, place the pie in the freezer for 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Store the Orange Creamsicle Pie in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- For best texture and flavor, consume within 2-3 days.
- Optional: Add extra whipped cream topping just before serving for added richness and presentation.
