Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted)
• Cream cheese (16 oz, softened)
• Sugar (3/4 cup)
• Orange zest (2 tablespoons)
• Orange juice (1/2 cup, freshly squeezed)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Orange gelatin (1 package (3 oz))
• Boiling water (1/2 cup)
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Orange slices (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Set aside.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. In another clean bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
5. In a small bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Allow it to cool slightly, then add it to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden. The center may still have a slight jiggle; it will firm up as it cools.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
9. Before serving, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh orange slices for a vibrant presentation.
10. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer!