Orange Fluff with Greek Yogurt
Orange Fluff with Greek Yogurt is a lighter, protein-packed twist on the classic retro dessert salad. Traditionally made with pudding, whipped topping, and fruit, this version swaps in creamy Greek yogurt for extra richness and nutritional value—without sacrificing that fluffy, dreamy texture everyone loves.
Sweet mandarin oranges, airy whipped topping, and bright citrus gelatin come together in minutes to create a refreshing, no-bake treat. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, summer BBQs, or even a quick make-ahead dessert, this Orange Fluff is creamy, tangy, sweet, and irresistibly light.
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (minimum)
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
Greek Yogurt: 2 cups plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (non-fat or full-fat)
Orange Gelatin Mix: 1 small box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix (regular or sugar-free)
Whipped Topping: 1 (8 oz) tub light or nonfat whipped topping, thawed
Mandarin Oranges: 1 can (11–15 oz), drained well
Optional Add-Ins
1–2 cups mini marshmallows
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
½–1 cup cottage cheese (can replace part of yogurt)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
Instructions
Drain fruit thoroughly: Place mandarin oranges (and pineapple if using) in a colander and drain very well. Pat dry lightly with paper towels.
Combine yogurt and gelatin: In a large mixing bowl, stir Greek yogurt and dry orange gelatin mix together until fully blended and smooth.
Add vanilla (optional): Stir in vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold thawed whipped topping into the yogurt mixture until light and fluffy.
Add zest (optional): Mix in fresh orange zest for bright citrus flavor.
Fold in fruit: Carefully fold in drained mandarin oranges (and pineapple if using).
Add marshmallows (optional): Stir in mini marshmallows if desired.
Adjust texture: If mixture seems too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons milk.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld and gelatin to slightly set.
Serve: Stir gently before serving. Garnish with extra orange zest or a few mandarin segments.
Tips
Use thick Greek yogurt for best creamy texture.
Drain fruit extremely well to prevent watery fluff.
Do not prepare gelatin separately — use dry powder directly in yogurt.
Fold gently to maintain airy consistency.
Chill at least 1 hour for best flavor and structure.
Use sugar-free gelatin for lower calorie option.
Add marshmallows just before chilling to keep them soft.
Taste before chilling to adjust sweetness.
Use full-fat yogurt for richer dessert-like texture.
Store covered tightly to prevent drying out.
Variations
Replace half yogurt with cottage cheese for traditional flavor.
Add crushed pineapple for tropical sweetness.
Stir in shredded coconut.
Add chopped pecans for crunch.
Use lime gelatin for citrus twist.
Mix in vanilla pudding powder for thicker consistency.
Add diced strawberries for color contrast.
Make it layered in parfait glasses.
Add protein powder for high-protein snack version.
Top with graham cracker crumbs for dessert feel.
Q&A
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek?
Greek yogurt is thicker; regular yogurt may make it runnier.
Does the gelatin need to be dissolved first?
No. The dry mix blends directly into the yogurt.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, up to 24 hours in advance.
How long does it last?
3–4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Orange Fluff?
Freezing is not recommended as texture changes.
Is this considered a dessert or side dish?
Both! It’s often served as a dessert salad.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free yogurt and whipped topping alternatives.
Why is my fluff watery?
Fruit likely wasn’t drained thoroughly.
Can I reduce sweetness?
Use plain yogurt and sugar-free gelatin.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes — it’s sweet, colorful, and creamy.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving, 8 servings)
Calories: 150–220
Protein: 6–10g
Carbohydrates: 18–25g
Fat: 4–8g
Sugar: 15–20g
Sodium: 80–150mg
(Nutrition varies depending on yogurt type, gelatin choice, and add-ins.)
Conclusion
Orange Fluff with Greek Yogurt is the perfect balance of creamy, citrusy sweetness and light texture. By swapping traditional pudding bases for protein-rich Greek yogurt, this version keeps the nostalgic flavor while adding a modern, healthier twist.
Whether served at a holiday table, summer cookout, or enjoyed as a chilled snack, this fluffy orange dessert is quick, versatile, and always a crowd favorite. With endless variations and easy preparation, it’s a refreshing no-bake recipe you’ll come back to again and again.