This Citrus Cheesecake with Nilla Wafer Crust is a creamy and refreshing dessert infused with bright citrus flavors. The buttery Nilla wafer crust perfectly complements the smooth, tangy cheesecake filling made with fresh orange and lemon juice. Topped with whipped cream and fresh mandarin slices, this elegant dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a light and flavorful treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright & Refreshing – A perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and zesty citrus flavors.
No Complicated Techniques – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this an approachable recipe.
Buttery Nilla Wafer Crust – A sweet, crisp base that pairs beautifully with the citrus filling.
Perfect for Any Occasion – A great dessert for summer parties, holidays, or afternoon tea.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared in advance and chilled until ready to serve.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

2 cups Nilla wafer crumbs
¼ cup melted butter
2 tbsp sugar

For the Citrus Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese (softened)
½ cup sugar
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp orange zest
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

Whipped cream
Mandarin orange slices
Fresh mint leaves

Directions

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix Nilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan or springform pan.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.

Make the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add sour cream, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and orange zest, mixing until fully incorporated.
Add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined. Stir in vanilla extract.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set.
Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Garnish & Serve:

Before serving, top with whipped cream, mandarin orange slices, and fresh mint leaves.
Slice and enjoy this refreshing citrus treat!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours

Variations

Lime Twist: Swap orange juice and zest for lime for a key lime-style cheesecake.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or almond flour crust.
Honey Citrus Flavor: Add 1 tbsp of honey to the filling for a natural sweetness boost.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top for a decadent touch.
Mini Cheesecakes: Make in a muffin tin for individual portions, adjusting baking time to 18-20 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze whole or in slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Serve chilled; no reheating is needed.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best when made a day ahead and chilled overnight for the best texture.

Do I need a water bath for baking?

No, this cheesecake sets well without a water bath, but placing a pan of water on the lower oven rack can help prevent cracks.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquidy. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes! Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for sour cream.

What’s the best way to slice cheesecake cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe it clean between slices.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes! A graham cracker crust or a shortbread crust would also pair well with the citrus flavors.

Is this cheesecake overly sweet?

No, it has a balanced sweetness with a slight tang from the citrus and sour cream.

Can I add meringue on top?

Absolutely! A light torched meringue topping would be a beautiful addition.

What can I serve with this cheesecake?

It pairs well with tea, coffee, or a citrusy dessert wine.

Conclusion

Citrus Cheesecake with Nilla Wafer Crust is a delightful combination of creamy, zesty, and sweet flavors. The buttery crust, smooth filling, and fresh citrusy notes make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer party or enjoying it as a light and refreshing treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress!

Citrus Cheesecake with Wafer Crust