Orange Fluff Dessert Salad Recipe
Introduction
Orange Fluff Dessert Salad is a light, refreshing treat that’s perfect for gatherings or a simple family dessert. Combining the bright citrus flavor of orange Jell-O with creamy vanilla pudding, marshmallows, and mandarin oranges, this dish is both creamy and delightfully textured.
Ingredients
- 3 oz box orange Jell-O
- 3 oz box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 container Cool Whip (8 oz.)
- 1 can mandarin oranges (14 oz., drained)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the orange Jell-O and boiling water. Whisk until the Jell-O is completely dissolved.
- Step 2: Stir in the cold water and refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes to begin setting. Slowly whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth, then chill for another 15 to 20 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the Cool Whip, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For a different twist, substitute mandarin oranges with pineapple chunks or mixed berries.
- Use homemade whipped cream in place of Cool Whip for a fresher taste.
- Allow the salad to chill longer for a firmer consistency and better flavor development.
Storage
Store the dessert salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving if it separates slightly. It’s best served chilled and does not freeze well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges?
Yes, fresh peeled and segmented oranges can be used, but canned mandarins provide a consistent sweetness and texture that complements the salad well.
Is it possible to make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dessert tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, which allows the flavors to fully develop.
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Orange Fluff Dessert Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Fluff Dessert Salad is a light, creamy, and refreshing no-bake treat combining zesty orange gelatin, smooth vanilla pudding, sweet mandarin oranges, and fluffy mini marshmallows. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple sweet snack.
Ingredients
Gelatin Mixture
- 3 oz box orange Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Pudding Mixture
- 3 oz box instant vanilla pudding
Other Ingredients
- 1 Cool Whip (8 oz.)
- 1 can mandarin oranges (14 oz., drained)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Dissolve Gelatin: In a large bowl, combine the orange Jell-O powder and boiling water. Whisk thoroughly until all the gelatin crystals are completely dissolved.
- Chill and Mix Pudding: Add the cold water to the gelatin mixture. Refrigerate this mixture for 15 minutes to start cooling. Then, slowly whisk in the instant vanilla pudding powder until the mixture is smooth. Return it to the refrigerator and chill for another 15 to 20 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Chill: Gently fold in the Cool Whip, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows into the thickened gelatin and pudding mixture. Mix carefully to keep the fluff airy. Chill the combined salad for at least 1 hour to set and meld the flavors before serving.
Notes
- For best results, make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid graininess.
- Chilling times can be extended if you want a firmer salad.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
- Use fresh mandarin oranges as a substitute if canned ones are not available, but ensure they are well drained.
- For a lighter option, you can use fat-free Cool Whip and pudding mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: orange fluff, dessert salad, jello salad, instant pudding, mandarin oranges, no bake dessert
