Orange Dreamsicle Salad

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a sweet, creamy, and citrusy dessert that brings nostalgic flavors to the table with every bite. I love how it blends juicy mandarin oranges with fluffy whipped topping and hints of vanilla, making it taste just like the classic orange creamsicle I remember from childhood. It’s incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, BBQs, and holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s no-bake, no-fuss, and made with simple pantry staples. The texture is light and fluffy, with pops of fruit and a creamy, pudding-like base that melts in my mouth. It takes just a few minutes to mix together and is easy to make ahead. Whether I serve it as a side dish or dessert, it’s a refreshing and fun treat that disappears fast.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Instant vanilla pudding mix

• Orange gelatin mix

• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

• Canned mandarin oranges, drained

• Crushed pineapple, drained

• Mini marshmallows

• Milk (cold) or water, for dissolving pudding mix

• Optional: shredded coconut or chopped nuts for texture

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and orange gelatin with cold milk or water until smooth and slightly thickened.

2. I fold in the whipped topping gently until fully combined and creamy.

3. I add the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows, stirring just until everything is mixed evenly.

4. I cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to chill and allow the flavors to come together.

5. Just before serving, I give it a gentle stir and top with extra oranges or a sprinkle of coconut if I want to dress it up.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I swap vanilla pudding for cheesecake or white chocolate pudding for a richer flavor. I’ve added chopped maraschino cherries or strawberries for a fruitier twist. For a tropical spin, I use coconut pudding and add shredded coconut. I also skip the marshmallows if I want it lighter, or add chopped pecans for a bit of crunch.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It holds its texture well, but I always give it a quick stir before serving again. I don’t freeze it—whipped topping and gelatin-based dishes don’t thaw well.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, I can make it up to a day in advance. In fact, letting it chill longer helps the flavors blend and improves the texture.

Can I use fresh oranges instead of canned?

I can, but I make sure they’re peeled, sectioned, and membrane-free. Canned mandarin oranges are sweeter and more tender, which I find works best.

Is this salad served as a dessert or side dish?

It works as both. I usually serve it as a sweet side at picnics or as a light, creamy dessert after a big meal.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, I can use freshly whipped cream, but I make sure it’s stabilized (with a bit of powdered sugar or gelatin) so the salad holds up longer in the fridge.

What if the salad is too runny?

I make sure to fully drain all canned fruit and allow the salad to chill long enough. If needed, I fold in a bit more whipped topping to thicken it up.

Conclusion

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is one of those fun, retro-style dishes that I keep coming back to for its creamy texture and nostalgic flavor. It’s easy, refreshing, and always gets compliments wherever I take it. Whether I’m serving it for a summer BBQ or a holiday dinner, this sweet, citrusy salad is always a bright spot on the table.

Orange Dreamsicle Salad

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a nostalgic, creamy dessert that combines the flavors of vanilla pudding and orange gelatin with whipped topping, fruit, and marshmallows for a refreshing, no-bake treat.

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Ingredients

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
• 1 cup cold milk or water
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• Optional: 1/4 cup shredded coconut or chopped nuts

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and orange gelatin with cold milk or water until smooth and slightly thickened.
2. Fold in the whipped topping gently until fully combined.
3. Stir in mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows until evenly mixed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and set.
5. Before serving, stir gently and top with additional oranges, coconut, or nuts if desired.

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Notes

• Use cheesecake or white chocolate pudding for variation.
• Add maraschino cherries or strawberries for more fruit flavor.
• For a tropical twist, use coconut pudding and add shredded coconut.
• Skip marshmallows for a lighter version or add chopped pecans for crunch.
• Homemade whipped cream can be used if stabilized with powdered sugar or gelatin.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg