Orange Dreamsicle Pie Bars capture the nostalgic flavor of a creamsicle in a smooth, creamy, and citrusy dessert that rests on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a bright, refreshing treat that feels both indulgent and light.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers the irresistible combination of tangy orange and silky cream cheese in a chilled, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a taste of sunshine. The buttery graham crust pairs perfectly with the luscious orange cream filling, creating a bite that’s sweet, tangy, and utterly refreshing.

Orange Dreamsicle Pie Bars

There’s something magical about the combination of citrus and cream. It’s the flavor of childhood summer days, when the sound of an ice cream truck meant the promise of a cold, sweet creamsicle. These Orange Dreamsicle Pie Bars take that same nostalgic flavor and transform it into a rich yet airy dessert.

Instead of melting away like the popsicle version, these bars hold their shape thanks to a sturdy graham cracker crust and a creamy filling that’s chilled until perfectly set. The crust is buttery and slightly sweet, with just enough texture to contrast with the smooth filling. It forms a solid base that complements every bite.

The filling is where the magic happens. Freshly squeezed orange juice brings brightness and natural citrus aroma, while the zest adds a deeper, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness. Using fresh juice makes a world of difference here, as it brings a vibrancy you simply can’t get from bottled juice.

Cream cheese provides the body and slight tang that keeps the filling from being overly sweet. Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and a silky texture, making each bite melt in your mouth. A touch of orange extract intensifies the flavor for those who love a bold citrus punch.

Whipped cream is folded into the filling to lighten the texture, giving the bars their signature airy feel. It’s the contrast between dense creaminess and delicate fluffiness that makes these bars so satisfying.

The final flourish of Crème Chantilly on top adds a touch of elegance and a hint of vanilla sweetness, making the dessert look as good as it tastes. Each square feels like a little slice of sunshine, brightening even the cloudiest day.

One of the best parts of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal baking required for the crust and a filling that comes together quickly, it’s a great choice for busy days or last-minute entertaining. You can even make it ahead of time, letting the flavors meld together in the fridge.

These bars are also wonderfully versatile. You can adjust the orange flavor to your liking, use different citrus fruits for variety, or even add a thin layer of chocolate between the crust and filling for a playful twist.

Because they’re served chilled, Orange Dreamsicle Pie Bars are especially refreshing in warmer weather. They make a perfect ending to a barbecue, picnic, or holiday brunch, and they transport easily if you’re bringing dessert to a gathering.

Even those who claim not to like citrus desserts may find themselves going back for a second square. The balance of sweetness, tang, creaminess, and crunch is irresistible.

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you’re craving a sweet pick-me-up, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Servings

12 bars

Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

Crust

• 16 graham crackers
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, diced
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• Grated rind from 4-6 oranges
• 1/2 tsp orange extract (optional)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup Crème Chantilly

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. Combine with butter and granulated sugar, mixing until evenly moistened.
3. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool completely.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and orange extract if using. Beat until fully combined and creamy.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold whipped cream into the orange-cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
7. Spread filling evenly over cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
9. Just before serving, spread Crème Chantilly over the top and cut into bars.

Tips

• For a stronger orange flavor, increase the zest or add more orange extract.
• Chill the bars overnight for the best flavor and texture.
• Use a hot, dry knife to slice cleanly.
• Garnish with extra zest or thin orange slices for presentation.