Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched citrus grove? This dreamy Orange Creamsicle Pie captures the essence of summer in every creamy, dreamy bite. It's easier to make than you think, and the vibrant orange color alone is enough to brighten any day. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals (relatively!), or simply a delicious dish that's sure to impress. Get ready for homemade cooking at its finest! This is one of the best recipes you'll find for a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) container frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup orange zest (about 2 large oranges)
Instructions:
Make the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Stir in the melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and thawed orange juice concentrate until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the orange mixture along with the vanilla extract and orange zest. Be careful not to overmix.
Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the orange cream filling into the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
Optional Garnish:
Before serving, you can garnish your pie with whipped cream, orange slices, or even candied orange peel for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips and Variations:
- For a tangier pie: Use less sugar or add a squeeze of fresh orange juice to the filling.
- Make it ahead: This pie tastes even better the next day! It can be made up to two days in advance.
- Crust variations: Experiment with different crusts – try a shortbread crust or even a store-bought one for a quicker option.
- Add some zest: Don't skip the orange zest; it adds a wonderful burst of fresh orange flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15g
- Sugar: 35-40g
This Orange Creamsicle Pie is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Its bright flavor and creamy texture make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or simply a delightful treat for a special occasion. Enjoy the sunshine in every bite!