Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a favorite because it’s so easy to make with just a few ingredients and no oven needed. The creamy pudding and fluffy Cool Whip blend perfectly with the tangy orange Jell-O for a dreamy texture. The mandarin oranges add juicy sweetness, while the mini marshmallows bring fun, chewy bites. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a special indulgence without much effort.
Ingredients
(Herе’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 box orange Jell-O
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1 box instant vanilla pudding mix
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1 cup boiling water
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½ cup cold water
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1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip
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1 can (14 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
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1 cup mini marshmallows
Directions
Dissolve the orange Jell-O in boiling water in a large bowl.
Stir in the cold water, then chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
Whisk in the vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Chill again for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Fold in the Cool Whip, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until evenly combined.
Serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 6-8 people and takes around 40-45 minutes total including chilling time.
Variations
I like adding shredded coconut or chopped nuts for extra texture. Swapping mandarin oranges with pineapple chunks gives a tropical twist. For a lighter version, use sugar-free Jell-O and reduced-fat pudding mix.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served cold and is not suitable for reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges?
Yes, fresh peeled and segmented oranges work well and add a fresh citrus burst.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling for several hours or overnight.
What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
You can use homemade whipped cream or any whipped topping of your choice.
Can I use sugar-free pudding mix?
Yes, sugar-free pudding mix works if you prefer a lower-sugar dessert.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
I find Orange Dreamsicle Salad to be a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of a creamsicle in a light, fluffy salad form. It’s perfect for warm days, family gatherings, or anytime I want a refreshing sweet treat without baking or fuss.
Print
Orange Dreamsicle Salad
- Total Time: 8 servings
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and fruity Orange Dreamsicle Salad with mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and a smooth pudding and Jell-O base—perfect for potlucks or dessert.
Ingredients
1 box orange Jell-O
1 box instant vanilla pudding
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip
1 can (14 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
Prepare Jell-O Base: In a large bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in boiling water.
Cool & Set Slightly: Stir in the cold water and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
Add Pudding: Whisk in vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Return to the fridge for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
Fold Ingredients: Gently fold in Cool Whip, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until evenly combined.
Chill & Serve: Refrigerate until ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
For extra fruitiness, add pineapple tidbits or strawberries.
Best served within 24 hours for the freshest texture.
Use sugar-free pudding and Jell-O for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Salad
- Method: No-Bake, Chilled
- Cuisine: American
