If you’ve ever longed for that perfect summer dessert that’s as nostalgic as it is refreshing, this Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe is here to brighten your day. Bursting with vibrant citrus flavor, creamy yogurt, and fluffy whipped cream, all nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust, this pie brings together the magic of a classic creamsicle in an irresistibly smooth and sliceable form. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or indulging on a sunny afternoon, this pie delivers a sweet, tangy, and creamy experience that feels like a joyful celebration in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the pie’s delightful texture and flavor. From the zing of mandarin oranges to the creamy body of orange yogurt and the airy whipped cream, every item works harmoniously to create that signature creamsicle taste and appearance.
- Graham Cracker Crust: Provides a buttery, crunchy base that perfectly complements the smooth filling.
- 15 ounces Mandarin oranges (1 can drained, juice reserved): Offers natural sweetness and a burst of juicy citrus flavor.
- 3.4 ounces Orange Jello mix: Adds vibrant color and a tangy orange taste while helping the pie set beautifully.
- 12 ounces Orange creamsicle yogurt (2 containers): Brings creamy texture and authentic creamsicle flavor with a lovely orange undertone.
- 8 ounces Whipped Cream (plus more for topping, optional): Lends lightness and airy texture, enhancing the pie’s indulgent feel.
How to Make Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture
Start by combining the orange gelatin mix and 1/4 cup of the reserved mandarin orange juice in a large glass bowl and microwaving it on high for one minute. This step melts the gelatin, allowing it to dissolve smoothly. After microwaving, pop the bowl into the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes so the mixture thickens and becomes slightly gel-like, setting the stage for a luscious filling texture.
Step 2: Blend the Filling
Once your gelatin has taken on a thicker consistency, whisk in the orange creamsicle yogurt and whipped cream until the mixture is silky and uniform. Then, gently fold in half a cup of chopped mandarin oranges, adding extra bursts of juicy sweetness and a little texture contrast that makes every bite interesting and fresh.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour this creamy filling right into your ready graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly. For an extra touch of beauty and flavor, top the filling with dollops of whipped cream and whole mandarin orange segments, turning your pie into a colorful, inviting centerpiece that’s almost too pretty to eat.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Finally, refrigerate your Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe for at least four hours to let it fully set and develop that perfect sliceable firmness. If you prefer a frozen twist on this treat, pop it in the freezer for a couple of hours instead. Either way, you’re in for a cool, refreshing dessert that sings with citrus goodness.
How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe
Garnishes
When serving this pie, consider topping each slice with a small dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh mandarin orange segments to highlight its citrus personality. A sprinkle of finely grated orange zest or a tiny drizzle of honey can lend an extra layer of fragrance and sweetness to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides. Think fresh fruit salads, crisp green salads with a citrus vinaigrette, or even a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream for those who want to double down on creamy, cooling sweetness. These pairings keep the palate refreshed without overpowering the pie’s delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special occasion, serve the Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe in mini tart shells or individual ramekins topped with whipped cream and a tiny orange twist. Alternatively, stack a few thin slices with layers of fresh berries and mint leaves to create elegant, layered parfaits inspired by the pie’s flavors. Presentation can turn this bright, sunny dessert into a stunning showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days while retaining that creamy texture and refreshing citrus flavor you love.
Freezing
If you want to make this pie ahead of time or save leftovers longer, freezing works great. Wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When properly wrapped, it can be frozen for up to one month without losing its vibrant flavor or creamy consistency.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold or slightly frozen, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen slices to thaw in the refrigerator for an hour or so before serving to bring back the perfect smooth texture and bold orange flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh oranges instead of canned mandarins?
Absolutely! Fresh mandarin oranges or even navel oranges can work well; just make sure to remove seeds and peel carefully to maintain that sweet, juicy burst in the pie.
Is there a substitute for the orange jello mix?
If you’re avoiding gelatin or jello mixes, you could try using a natural agar-agar powder, though the setting time and texture might vary slightly. Otherwise, the orange jello mix is key for the flavor and consistency of this pie.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, swap out the yogurt and whipped cream for dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and whipped coconut cream. The texture and flavor may change slightly, but it’s still wonderfully creamy and citrusy.
How sweet is this pie? Should I adjust sugar?
This pie has a balanced sweetness thanks to the canned mandarin oranges and orange jello. If you prefer it less sweet, opt for low-sugar or no-sugar-added yogurt varieties and reduce any additional toppings that contain sugar.
What happens if the pie doesn’t set properly?
If your pie remains too soft, it likely needs more chilling time. The gelatin needs a few hours in the fridge to firm up. Avoid rushing this step, and you’ll have perfectly sliceable, dreamy pie every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making and sharing this Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe. It’s a nostalgic, vibrant dessert that always invites smiles and second servings. Whether you’re new to no-bake pies or a seasoned dessert lover, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that shines in both flavor and simplicity. I can’t wait for you to try it and create joyful moments over slices of creamy, citrusy heaven.
Print
Orange Creamsicle Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Creamsicle Pie is a refreshing no-bake dessert that combines the bright, tangy flavor of mandarin oranges with creamy orange yogurt and fluffy whipped cream, set in a graham cracker crust. Perfectly chilled and easy to prepare, it’s a delightful treat reminiscent of the classic orange creamsicle popsicle.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 Graham Cracker Crust
Filling
- 15 ounces Mandarin oranges (1 can drained, juice reserved)
- 3.4 ounces Orange Jello mix (1 package)
- 12 ounces Orange creamsicle yogurt (2 containers)
- 8 ounces Whipped Cream (plus more for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Gelatin: In a large glass bowl, add the orange gelatin mix along with 1/4 cup of the reserved mandarin orange juice. Microwave on high for 1 minute until the gelatin dissolves completely. Then place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Mix Filling: Once the gelatin mixture has chilled and begun to thicken, whisk in the orange creamsicle yogurt and whipped cream until smooth and well combined. Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped mandarin oranges to add texture and flavor.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the finished pie filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Top with dollops of additional whipped cream and whole mandarin oranges for garnish.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pie for about 4 hours to allow it to fully set. Alternatively, for a firmer texture, freeze for 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Reserve some mandarin orange juice from the can to dissolve the gelatin properly.
- Use a glass bowl for microwaving the gelatin mixture to prevent melting or reactions.
- Chilling the gelatin mixture before adding yogurt and whipped cream helps maintain the pie’s creamy texture.
- For a lighter dessert, use low-fat or light versions of yogurt and whipped cream.
- The pie can be frozen for a slightly different texture but should be thawed slightly before serving for best flavor.
