Dreamsicle Bars
Transport your taste buds to a sunny dessert daydream with these luscious Dreamsicle Bars! A buttery graham cracker crust forms the perfect base for a velvety, no-bake orange-cream filling that’s as light as a cloud. Infused with fresh orange juice, fragrant zest, and a hint of vanilla, this recipe captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic creamsicle in every bite. The whipped cream folded into the citrus mixture adds an airy texture, making these bars irresistibly smooth and refreshing. Quick to prepare and requiring zero baking, Dreamsicle Bars are an ideal make-ahead treat for warm weather gatherings or anytime you crave a citrusy burst of sweetness. Top them with fluffy whipped cream and a pop of orange zest for a stunning presentation that’ll wow any crowd!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 0.5 cups orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon gelatin powder
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- as needed whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- as needed orange slices or zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to smooth it out. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes while preparing the filling.
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the orange juice and gelatin mixture. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooled orange juice mixture, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the orange mixture until no streaks remain.
Pour the orange filling over the chilled crust. Spread evenly with a spatula.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set.
Once set, slice the bars into 12 squares. Optionally, top each bar with whipped cream and a garnish of orange slices or zest.
Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, citrusy taste of Dreamsicle Bars!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
389 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.9 g | 31% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.7 g | 69% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 64 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 176 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.0 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g | 3% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.3 g | ||
| Protein | 2.9 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 32 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 76 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
