Made this for my son’s birthday last year and he asked for it again this year!

– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 package (3 oz) orange Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of one orange for garnish (optional)

1. Begin by lining a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper or give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.

2. In a medium bowl, mix together the vanilla wafer crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

3. Dissolve the orange Jell-O in boiling water, stirring well until completely dissolved, and set aside to cool to room temperature.

4. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

5. Slowly blend in the cooled Jell-O until thoroughly mixed.

6. Pour the cream cheese and Jell-O mixture over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

7. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.

8. Before serving, add a touch of flair with orange zest sprinkled over the top if you’d like a bit of color and zing.