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Easy Orange Dreamsicle Layered Dessert

This dessert is a creamy and bright treat that captures the nostalgic flavor of an orange dreamsicle. It's easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or as a make-ahead option for a sweet finish to any meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs Use fine crumbs for better texture.
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted Ensure the butter is fully melted.
For the cream cheese layer
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Beat until smooth.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups thawed frozen whipped topping Use about 2 cups from the tub.
For the pudding layer
  • 2 boxes orange gelatin powder (3 ounces each)
  • 1/3 cup boiling water To dissolve the gelatin.
  • 2 boxes vanilla instant pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
  • 2 1/2 cups cold milk
For the topping
  • 1/2 cup canned mandarin orange segments, drained Add just before serving.
  • 12 ounces remaining whipped topping, thawed About 1 1/2 to 2 cups.

Method
 

Make the Crust
  1. Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish. Freeze for about 10 minutes.
Prepare the Orange Pudding Layer
  1. Stir the orange gelatin into the boiling water until fully dissolved. Whisk the vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk for about 2 minutes. Stir in the dissolved gelatin and let the mixture stand.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer
  1. Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in about 2 cups of thawed whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the chilled crust.
Assemble and Chill
  1. Spread the orange pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Dollop and smooth the remaining whipped topping over the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Finish and Serve
  1. Just before serving, scatter the drained mandarin orange segments over the top. Cut into squares and serve cold.

Notes

For best results, do not skip chill times for the crust and finished dessert. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.