Description
This No-Bake Orange Pineapple Swirl Cheesecake is a refreshing tropical dessert combining creamy cream cheese with the tangy sweetness of pineapple and vibrant orange gelatin. It features a crunchy graham cracker crust and a luscious marbled filling, perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion when you want a light, fruity cheesecake without using the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
- 1 (3 oz) package orange gelatin (Jell-O)
- ½ cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 1½ cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Garnish
- Orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and pineapple juice to incorporate without breaking down the pineapple too much.
- Dissolve the gelatin: In another bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin powder in ½ cup boiling water, stirring thoroughly. Next, stir in ½ cup cold water and let the gelatin cool and thicken slightly, but not set, to prepare for swirling.
- Combine whipped topping and cream cheese mixture: Fold the whipped topping gently into the cream cheese and pineapple mixture until fully incorporated, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Create the swirl effect: Gently fold the slightly thickened orange gelatin into the cream cheese mixture to create an attractive marbled or swirl pattern. Avoid overmixing to maintain the distinct color patterns.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the swirled filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until fully set and firm to the touch.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally sprinkle orange zest on top for extra citrus aroma and presentation. Slice and enjoy your no-bake tropical swirl cheesecake.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid a watery filling.
- For enhanced citrus flavor, add a few drops of orange extract to the cream cheese mixture.
- This cheesecake can be prepared a day in advance; keep it covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
