Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Crust Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the Crust:
   • Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack it down evenly.
4. Bake the Crust:
   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Prepare the Orange Cheesecake Filling:

5. Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
6. Add the Vanilla, Eggs, and Zest:
   • Add the vanilla extract, eggs (one at a time), and orange zest to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
7. Incorporate the Sour Cream and Heavy Cream:
   • Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until fully combined. Stir in the fresh orange juice. If using, sift in the flour and mix until just combined.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

8. Pour the Filling:
   • Pour the orange cheesecake filling over the baked graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
9. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the springform pan in the oven and bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Avoid opening the oven door frequently to prevent cracking.
10. Cool the Cheesecake:
    • Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
11. Chill the Cheesecake:
    • After cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake and allow it to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Then, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.

4. Prepare the Vanilla Cream Layer (Optional):

12. Whip the Cream:
    • In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread this vanilla cream layer on top of the chilled cheesecake if desired, before adding the orange glaze.

5. Prepare the Orange Glaze:

13. Cook the Glaze:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice and granulated sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry.
14. Thicken the Glaze:
    • Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering orange juice mixture, stirring constantly until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

6. Assemble and Serve:

15. Add the Orange Glaze:
    • Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and the glaze has cooled, pour the orange glaze over the top of the cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
16. Garnish (Optional):
    • Garnish with additional orange zest, whipped cream, or candied orange slices if desired.
17. Slice and Serve:
    • Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and slice into wedges. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing citrus flavor!

Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
• Preventing Cracks: Baking the cheesecake in a water bath (by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water) can help prevent cracks. Wrapping the springform pan in foil can protect it from water leaks.
• Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to avoid sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.

Variations:

• Berry Swirl Cheesecake: Add a berry swirl by incorporating a layer of berry sauce (like raspberry or blueberry) into the cheesecake before baking.
• Ginger Crust: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed ginger snap cookies for a spicy twist.

Conclusion

Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a delightful and indulgent dessert that captures the essence of a classic creamsicle in a creamy cheesecake form. With its vibrant orange flavor, smooth texture, and refreshing glaze, this cheesecake is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a slice of this citrusy delight and savor the delicious combination of flavors and textures!