Description
Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a nostalgic and refreshing dessert salad combining the flavors of orange gelatin, creamy vanilla pudding, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows. This no-bake dish offers a light, fluffy texture reminiscent of the classic orange creamsicle treat, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you want a sweet, creamy, and fruity dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Gelatin Base
- 1 (3-ounce) box orange-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Pudding Mixture
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping (thawed)
Add-ins
- 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Dissolve Gelatin: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the orange-flavored gelatin in 1 cup boiling water. Stir thoroughly until completely dissolved, then add 1/2 cup cold water. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill for about 10–15 minutes, or until the mixture begins to slightly thicken but is not fully set.
- Add Pudding Mix: Whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix into the slightly thickened gelatin until smooth and fully combined. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes so it thickens further.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding and gelatin mix until the mixture is uniform and fluffy.
- Add Oranges and Marshmallows: Fold in the drained mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows carefully to maintain the fluffiness and distribute evenly.
- Chill to Set: Transfer the combined salad into a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until it is fully set and chilled.
- Serve: Serve cold, optionally garnished with extra mandarin oranges or a dollop of whipped topping for added appeal.
Notes
- For added texture, consider mixing in shredded coconut or crushed pineapple that is well drained.
- This salad works wonderfully as a retro-inspired dessert for potlucks, holiday meals, or casual gatherings.
- Be careful not to let the gelatin set completely before adding the pudding mix or whipped topping; it should be thickened but still liquid.
