An Orange Jello Creamsicle Pie is like biting into an orange popsicle with an irresistible creaminess, all in a cookie pie crust.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups shortbread cookies (crushed into fine crumbs)
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 orange, peeled and sliced (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 1 box of orange Jello (3-ounce)
• 12 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed, divided
• 12 ounces Cool Whip, divided
Instructions:
1. Prepare the crust:
• In a medium bowl, combine the crushed shortbread cookies and melted butter.
• Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
• Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
2. Dissolve the Jello:
• In a small saucepan, heat the orange juice until warm (but not boiling).
• Remove from heat and stir in the orange Jello until completely dissolved.
• Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Make the creamy filling:
• In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of the cream cheese until smooth.
• Gradually add in the cooled Jello mixture, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
• Fold in 8 ounces of Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the pie:
• Pour the creamy filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
5. Prepare the topping:
• In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 4 ounces of cream cheese until smooth.
• Fold in the remaining 4 ounces of Cool Whip until light and fluffy.
• Spread this mixture over the set pie.
6. Garnish and serve:
• Decorate with the fresh orange slices on top.
• You can also sprinkle a little extra orange zest for a bright, fresh finish.
• Slice and serve chilled.
