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Orange Dreamsicle Salad Recipe

4.2 from 25 reviews

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a delightful, creamy fruit salad that combines the nostalgic flavors of orange and vanilla pudding with whipped topping, mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows. This refreshing dessert is chilled to a perfect, fluffy consistency making it an ideal treat for gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit and Mix-ins

  • 1 (3 oz) package orange flavored gelatin
  • 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows (optional)

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix

Instructions

  1. Prepare Gelatin: In a mixing bowl, dissolve the orange flavored gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture and stir well. Place in the refrigerator and let it cool until it begins to set but is not fully firm, about 1 hour.
  2. Combine Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Mix well until smooth and creamy for a fluffy base.
  3. Add Fruit and Mix-ins: Gently fold the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows (if using) into the whipped topping and pudding mixture to distribute evenly without breaking the fruit.
  4. Incorporate Gelatin: Add the slightly set orange gelatin mixture to the whipped topping and fruit mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined, maintaining a fluffy texture.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and chilled.
  6. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to lighten it up. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing and creamy dessert.

Notes

  • For best texture, do not let the gelatin set completely before mixing; it should be soft and partially gelled.
  • Mini marshmallows are optional; they add extra sweetness and texture if desired.
  • This salad is best served chilled and can be made a day ahead.
  • If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of mini marshmallows or use sugar-free pudding mix.
  • Ensure the whipped topping is thawed completely before mixing for smoothness.

Keywords: Orange Dreamsicle Salad, creamy fruit salad, orange gelatin salad, instant pudding dessert, potluck salad, chilled dessert, whipped topping fruit salad