Orange Creamsicle Dream Bars 

These Orange Creamsicle Dream Bars are a delightful no bake dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of the classic frozen treat. With a crunchy Nilla wafer crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a refreshing orange cream topping, they are perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, citrusy indulgence.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1⅓ cups Nilla Wafer cookie crumbs

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Orange Cream Layer:

• 1 (3-ounce) package orange gelatin (JELL-O)

• ¾ cup boiling water

• ¾ cup cold water

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

• ¼ cup powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons orange extract

• 8 drops orange gel food coloring (optional)

• 2 cups Cool Whip

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup Cool Whip

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

   • In a medium bowl, combine the Nilla wafer crumbs with melted butter until well mixed.

   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.

   • Place the pan in the freezer to set for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Orange Gelatin:

   • In a 2-cup measuring glass, dissolve the orange gelatin in ¾ cup boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.

   • Add ¾ cup cold water to the mixture and stir.

   • Refrigerate until the gelatin is cool but not set, about 10 minutes.

3. Prepare the Orange Cream Layer:

   • In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar, orange extract, and orange gel food coloring until smooth.

   • Slowly add the cooled gelatin mixture, blending until fully incorporated.

   • Refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow the mixture to thicken.

4. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

   • In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

   • Fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip until well combined.

5. Assemble the Bars:

   • Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

   • Gently fold the remaining 2 cups of Cool Whip into the orange cream mixture until smooth.

   • Spread the orange cream layer evenly over the cheesecake layer.

   • Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set properly.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 484 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 52 g

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 29 g

• Saturated Fat: 17 g

• Cholesterol: 76 mg

• Sodium: 307 mg

• Potassium: 138 mg

• Sugar: 40 g

• Vitamin A: 959 IU

• Calcium: 107 mg

• Iron: 0.1 mg