Orange Dreamsicle Salad

Jump to Recipe

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a combo of tangy mandarin oranges and creamy Cool Whip that creates a delightful texture that melts in your mouth. The vanilla pudding adds a unique sweet taste that balances out the tartness of the citrus. The bright orange makes it a fun and festive addition to any table.

If you're looking for a salad that's light, creamy, and full of flavor, look no further than the Orange Dreamsicle Salad.

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is always a hit at friends and family gatherings. It has a smooth and silky texture with the right balance of tartness and sweetness.

Jello Salads History

We all know about the famous jello salad. However, Jello salads evolved over time to become sweeter and more dessert-like. Jello salads incorporate more fruits, whipped cream, and marshmallows. These salads, with endless variations and flavor combinations, are still a favorite at all family gatherings today.

Orange Dreamsicle VS Orange Creamsicle

While both look similar. However, the original Dreamsicle has frozen milk inside, while Creamsicle has ice cream. This makes Dreamsicle more like sherbet and gives it a unique flavor.

Ingredients

Packaged Orange Jello
Cold Water
Boiling Water
Vanilla Pudding Mix
Drained Mandarin Oranges
Mini Marshmallows
Cool Whip

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Serving Bowl
Whisk
Spoon

How To Make Orange Dreamsicle Salad?

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is easy to make, and you can prepare it beforehand. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Bonus Tip: For the best refreshing taste, keep Orange Dreamsicle Salad in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. It is even better if you prepare it the night before.

Let's start with preparing orange Jello.

Preparing The Orange Jello

First, take 1 cup boiling water and mix the Jello powder in it. Use a mixing spoon to mix it well. Make sure that all the crystals are fully dissolved. Now add 1/2 cup of cool water to the mixture. (You can also refrigerate for 10-15 minutes)

Adding Mandarin Oranges And Pudding Mix

Add mandarin oranges and vanilla pudding mix to the mixture. Keep whisking until everything is well incorporated and smooth. The mandarin oranges will add a citrusy sweetness to the dish. Make sure to drain the oranges before adding them to the mixture to avoid any excess liquid.

The vanilla pudding mix will add flavor and help thicken the mixture to the desired consistency.

Adding Cool Whip And Mini Marshmallows

Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then fold it in a Cool Whip. Next, add mini marshmallows and fold everything together gently until they thoroughly incorporate.

Chilling And Serving

Once everything is mixed together, transfer the mixture to a large serving bowl or individual dessert cups. Now, carefully cover the mixtures and refrigerate for a few hours. Refrigeration will allow the flavors to meld together and soften the marshmallows. Garnish with additional mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of cinnamon (optional), and serve.

Tips For Making Perfect Orange Dreamsicle Salad

Avoid aerosol or homemade whipped creams, as they might not be thick enough to help the salad firm up.
Remember to drain the oranges properly to avoid a runny orange creamsicle salad.
Experiment with Jello flavors and fruits to create a unique Jello salad. Some personal favorites include strawberry, cherry, and peach.
You can also add Vanilla and cream to make Jello salads even tastier.
For the best flavor, consume the Orange Dreamsicle Salad within 4 days.

Can I Freeze Dreamsicle Salad For Later Use?

Yes, you can freeze it, but the marshmallows might change texture when you thaw it. If you can bear it, freeze Orange Dreamsicle Salad for up to 3 months. Or, you can add the marshmallows after freezing and thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a delightful dessert. It is a perfect choice for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

Enjoy as a refreshing dessert - Serve the chilled Orange Dreamsicle Salad on a hot summer day and enjoy its cool and creamy goodness.
Serve With Different Protein Options - Serve Orange Dreamsicle Salad with Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets, Air Fryer Cornish Hen, Jimmy Dean Sausage Patties, or any protein-rich dish for a satisfying meal.
Serve at parties and family gatherings - You can prepare a larger batch of Orange Dreamsicle Salad and serve it at parties or family gatherings. Be a star of any gathering.

Recipe Variations

Orange Dreamsicle Salad offers room for creativity. Here are a few of my tested variations you can try:

Adding pineapple or other fruits - You can enhance the fruitiness by adding diced pineapple or other favorite fruits to the salad.
Using different Jello flavors - Experiment with different jello flavors like lemon, lime, or strawberry to create unique flavor combinations.
Add crushed cookies or nuts - You can add crushed cookies or chopped nuts to the salad for added crunch and texture.

Having Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume them within 4 days for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make salad for your next outdoor gathering, Orange Dreamsicle Salad is worth trying. It offers a unique combination of juicy mandarin oranges, creamy Cool Whip, and rich vanilla pudding. This creamy and smooth salad will fulfill your sweet craving and bring back memories of lazy summer afternoons.

Orange Dreamsicle Salad only takes a few minutes to whip up. This allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with your friends and family... Happy Eating!

Love this recipe? Leave your feedback in the comments.

My Other Recipes To Try

FAQ's

Can I Use Fresh Oranges In Orange Dreamsicle Salad?
You can use fresh oranges to make Orange Dreamsicle Salad, but it will change the texture. Fresh oranges are firmer and have more fiber, while mandarins are softer and smaller. So it's up to your preferences.

Can I Use Sugar-Free Jello In Orange Dreamsicle Salad?
Yes, you can use sugar-free Jello if you prefer a healthier version. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly.

Can I Use Fresh Whipped Cream Instead Of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can use fresh whipped cream to replace Cool Whip. However, make sure it is thick enough to help the salad set properly.

Can I Use Different Flavors Of The Pudding Mix?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pudding mix flavors to create your own unique variations of Orange Dreamsicle Salad. Strawberry, cherry, or peach flavors are some popular alternatives that you can try.

Can I Prepare Orange Dreamsicle Salad In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare Orange Dreamsicle Salad in advance. It is recommended to refrigerate it for at least 3 hours or overnight for the best flavor. Just keep it covered until you're ready to serve.