The best Orange Creamsicle Bars Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that combines refreshing citrus flavors with creamy indulgence, Orange Creamsicle Bars are your dream come true. This nostalgic treat takes everything you love about the classic orange creamsicle popsicle—sweet orange flavor and rich vanilla cream—and transforms it into a delightful bar that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy evening at home.
These bars are light, creamy, and zesty, offering a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. The combination of a buttery crust and a creamy orange-vanilla filling will have your taste buds dancing. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make and require simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into this bright and flavorful dessert that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Orange Creamsicle Bars
There are plenty of reasons why Orange Creamsicle Bars should become a staple in your dessert rotation:
- Bright, summery flavor: The orange zest and juice provide a citrus punch that’s balanced with creamy vanilla.
- No complicated steps: You don’t need any fancy tools or techniques—just mix, bake, chill, and slice.
- Great for gatherings: These bars hold their shape beautifully and are easy to transport, making them perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and brunches.
- Nostalgic twist: If you grew up loving orange creamsicle popsicles, this recipe brings that same flavor in a grown-up dessert form.
Ingredients for Orange Creamsicle Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these creamy, citrusy bars to life:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Orange Cream Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 medium oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Topping:
- Whipped cream or Cool Whip
- Extra orange zest for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and orange zest. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan using your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.
Tip: Adding orange zest to the crust intensifies the citrus flavor and ties the layers together beautifully.
2. Make the Orange Cream Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), orange juice, orange zest, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Bake the bars at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan.
Tip: Don’t overbake! You want the filling to stay creamy and soft, not firm and rubbery. It will continue to set as it cools.
3. Cool and Chill
Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Once fully chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.
Tips, Tricks, and Tasty Variations
These Orange Creamsicle Bars are delicious as-is, but you can easily tweak the recipe to match your preferences or dietary needs.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh orange juice: Bottled juice works in a pinch, but freshly squeezed oranges deliver brighter, more authentic flavor.
- Zest before juicing: It’s easier to zest your oranges before cutting them in half for juicing.
- Room temperature ingredients: Let your eggs and yogurt come to room temperature before mixing for a smoother filling.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Graham crackers: Swap for digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even shortbread cookies.
- Greek yogurt: Use sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor, or full-fat plain yogurt if you prefer.
- Sweetened condensed milk: There’s no substitute here that gives the same consistency and sweetness, so try to stick with the real deal.
Flavor Variations
- Coconut twist: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the crust or filling for a tropical vibe.
- Lime creamsicle bars: Substitute lime juice and zest for a tangier version of this recipe.
- Orange chocolate: Drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant finish.
Storage Instructions
Once sliced, store your Orange Creamsicle Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer until firm, then wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tip: These bars are best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge—they’re creamy, refreshing, and perfect for hot days.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are already a showstopper, but here are a few ways to dress them up:
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest on top before serving.
- Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a colorful contrast.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Chill Time | 4+ hours |
| Total Time | 4 hours 40 minutes |
| Servings | 9–12 bars |
Why These Orange Creamsicle Bars Are a Must-Try
These Orange Creamsicle Bars check all the boxes for an ideal dessert: they’re easy to make, full of vibrant flavor, and offer a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making a batch for a summer cookout or just satisfying your sweet tooth at home, this recipe delivers sunshine in every bite.
And unlike many no-bake desserts, these bars have a lovely baked base that adds richness and structure, while the filling stays lusciously smooth. It’s like the grown-up version of your favorite childhood treat—but better.
Final Thoughts
Making Orange Creamsicle Bars at home is like bottling up a bit of sunshine. The zesty citrus, creamy filling, and buttery crust come together for a treat that’s bright, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping a secret stash in your fridge (we won’t judge), this recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite.
Try it once, and you’ll be hooked.
