Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines bright, tangy orange with creamy vanilla for a nostalgic flavor.
- Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to dessert.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual picnics to festive celebrations.
- Requires no baking, keeping your kitchen cool.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 box orange Jell-O
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 Cool Whip (8 oz.)
- 1 can mandarin oranges (14 oz.), drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the orange Jell-O and boiling water. Whisk until the Jell-O is fully dissolved.
- Add the cold water to the mixture and refrigerate for 15 minutes to chill slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the vanilla pudding mix until the mixture is smooth. Return to the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until evenly combined.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Additions: Add pineapple chunks or maraschino cherries for a fruity twist.
- Jell-O Flavor Options: Swap orange Jell-O for other flavors like lemon or strawberry.
- Crunch Factor: Mix in crushed nuts or shredded coconut for added texture.
- Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar-free Jell-O and pudding mix for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This dish is served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Stir gently before serving if it separates slightly.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making a day in advance. Store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
2. Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, freshly whipped cream can be substituted for Cool Whip, but the texture might be slightly different.
3. What other fruits can I use?
You can try adding diced peaches, grapes, or berries for variety.
4. Can I use another pudding flavor?
Vanilla pudding works best, but cheesecake or white chocolate pudding can be used for a unique twist.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check the labels on your Jell-O, pudding mix, and Cool Whip to ensure they’re gluten-free.
6. Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture when thawed.
7. What can I use instead of marshmallows?
You can skip the marshmallows or replace them with mini meringues for a similar texture.
8. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute vegan gelatin, plant-based whipped topping, and pudding for a vegan version.
9. How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Ensure the mandarin oranges are well-drained and refrigerate the salad until it is thoroughly chilled.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales easily for larger gatherings.
Conclusion
Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a simple yet delicious dessert that delivers the perfect balance of creamy and fruity flavors. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that evokes the comforting nostalgia of classic creamsicle treats. Serve it at your next event and watch it disappear in no time!
Orange Dreamsicle Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the nostalgic flavors of Orange Dreamsicle Salad, a creamy, citrusy dessert perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a refreshing no-bake treat on warm days. This quick and easy recipe combines orange Jell-O, vanilla pudding, and Cool Whip for a dreamy combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 box orange Jell-O
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 Cool Whip (8 oz.)
- 1 can mandarin oranges (14 oz.), drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together orange Jell-O and boiling water until fully dissolved.
- Add cold water, stir, and refrigerate for 15 minutes to chill slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Return to the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Gently fold in Cool Whip, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Drain mandarin oranges thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Customize by adding pineapple chunks, maraschino cherries, or crushed nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- For a sugar-free version, substitute sugar-free Jell-O and pudding mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American