Orange Dreamsicle Salad Recipe
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.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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