Orange Dreamsicle Salad (Creamy No-Bake Dessert Fluff)
This nostalgic Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a light, creamy, cloud-like dessert that tastes just like the classic orange-and-vanilla popsicle we all grew up loving. Sweet citrus gelatin, silky vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and juicy mandarin oranges come together to create a refreshing treat that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or warm-weather gatherings. The best part? It’s completely no-bake and takes only minutes to prepare — your refrigerator does the rest of the work.
🕒 Time & Servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2–4 hours (essential)
Servings: 8–10
🧾 Ingredients
1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin (Jell-O)
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (dry)
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges, very well drained
2 cups mini marshmallows
Optional: ½ cup shredded coconut or chopped pecans for crunch
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Dissolve the gelatin
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the orange gelatin powder with boiling water until completely dissolved and smooth.
2. Add cold water
Stir in the cold water to cool the mixture slightly.
3. Chill briefly
Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. You want it thickened slightly, similar to egg whites, not fully set. This step helps create the fluffy texture later.
4. Whisk in pudding
Remove from the fridge and whisk in the dry vanilla pudding mix until smooth and creamy. The mixture will begin to thicken quickly.
5. Fold gently
Using a spatula, gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly combined and pale orange. Avoid stirring too hard so the mixture stays airy.
6. Add mix-ins
Carefully fold in drained oranges, marshmallows, and any optional extras.
7. Final chill
Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours (4 is best) to allow flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften.
✨ Tips for Success
Drain oranges thoroughly to prevent a watery salad
Fold, don’t stir, to keep it fluffy
Tastes even better the next day
Creamy, citrusy, and irresistibly nostalgic, this dreamy dessert always disappears fast — don’t forget to grab a spoon before it’s gone!