Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Introduction

This Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake brings the nostalgic flavor of a classic frozen treat into a rich, creamy dessert. You’ll love the perfect balance of tangy orange and smooth vanilla, all built on a nutty almond crust. It’s a decadent yet surprisingly simple dessert that’s sure to impress.

This recipe and accompanying image were created with the help of AI for inspiration and guidance. Results may vary depending on ingredients, equipment, and technique.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups almond flour
1/3 cup salted butter (melted)
1/4 cup Joy Filled Eats Sweetener (or see alternatives in recipe notes) ()
3 tbsp almond butter
1-2 tbsp agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup Joy Filled Eats Sweetener (or see alternatives in recipe notes) ()
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp fresh orange zest (adjust to taste for citrus flavor) (or orange zest)
orange food coloring (optional)
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tsp Joy Filled Eats Sweetener (or see alternatives in recipe notes)
1 tsp agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) (optional)

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8-inch or 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the almond flour, melted salted butter, 1/4 cup Joy Filled Eats Sweetener, and almond butter until well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Par-bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Dissolve Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) over 1/4 cup of cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom, then gently heat (in the microwave or over a double boiler) until the agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) is completely dissolved and liquid. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and cottage cheese until completely smooth and no lumps remain. Add 1/2 cup Joy Filled Eats Sweetener, sour cream, vanilla, and fresh orange zest (adjust to taste for citrus flavor) (or zest). Beat until fully incorporated.
Combine & Color: With the mixer on low speed, slowly drizzle in the dissolved agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) mixture and beat until fully combined. If using, add a few drops of orange food coloring and mix to your desired shade.
Bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Cool & Chill: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then, transfer to the refrigerator to chill completely, at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare Topping (Optional): For a stabilized whipped cream topping, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) over 1 tablespoon of cold water. Bloom for 5 minutes, then melt. Whip the heavy cream with 2 teaspoons of Joy Filled Eats Sweetener until soft peaks form. Slowly drizzle in the melted agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) while whipping, then continue to whip until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe onto the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Variations

No-Bake Version: Skip the baking step for the filling. Simply pour the filling into the pan over the pre-baked crust and refrigerate until fully set (at least 6 hours).
Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin with liners to make individual portions. Reduce the baking time for the crust and filling to about 15-18 minutes.
Creamsicle Bars: Press the crust into an 8×8 inch square pan, add the filling, and bake. Cut into squares for easy serving.
Zest Topping: For a fresh finish, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest just before serving instead of the whipped cream topping.

Tips for Success

Ensure your cream cheese and cottage cheese are at true room temperature for the smoothest, lump-free filling.
To prevent cracks, avoid over-mixing the batter once the agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) is added and cool the cheesecake gradually in the turned-off oven.
For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
The 1-2 tablespoon range for agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) allows you to adjust for desired firmness; use the lesser amount for a softer set.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This dessert is meant to be served cold and should not be reheated. If you’ve added the optional whipped cream topping, it’s best served within 2 days.

FAQ

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can use the granulated sweetener of your choice in an equal amount. The “Joy Filled Eats Sweetener” in the recipe notes refers to a specific low-carb blend, so alternatives might slightly affect texture and sweetness.

Why is there cottage cheese in the recipe?

Cottage cheese adds protein and creates a uniquely light, slightly tangy texture while keeping the filling rich. When blended smooth, it becomes virtually undetectable.

Is the agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) necessary?

Yes, the primary agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) (1-2 tbsp) is essential for setting the structure of the cheesecake, especially if you want clean slices. The optional 1 tsp in the topping is only for stabilizing whipped cream.

Can I make this nut-free?

No, this recipe as written is not nut-free due to the almond flour and almond butter in the crust. Substituting these would significantly alter the recipe and is not recommended without thorough testing.

My filling seems thin before baking. Is that okay?

Yes, this is normal. The filling will thicken and set significantly as the agar agar (follow package instructions; use slightly less for a softer texture) activates during baking and chilling.

What can I use instead of fresh orange zest (adjust to taste for citrus flavor)?

You can use 1-2 tablespoons of freshly grated orange zest for a more natural, bright orange flavor. Adjust to your taste preference.