A chilled bite of orange dreamsicle salad tastes like summer nostalgia with every spoonful. This creamy citrus dessert brings together bright orange flavor and smooth vanilla in a dreamy, fluffy texture.
Perfect for potlucks or laid-back barbecues, this vintage-inspired treat is as simple to make as it is refreshing to serve. It’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast from the dessert table.
What You’ll Need to Make Orange Dreamsicle Salad
Orange-flavored Jell-O – The citrusy base that gives the salad its bright color and signature tang.
Instant vanilla pudding – Adds creamy sweetness and depth, balancing the tartness of the Jell-O.
Cool Whip – Whipped topping gives this dessert its fluffy, mousse-like texture.
Mandarin oranges – Juicy and sweet, they add bursts of citrus and a pleasant chew.
Mini marshmallows – Soft and sweet, they add playful texture and nostalgic charm.
Boiling water – Used to dissolve the Jell-O and begin the salad’s base.
Cold water – Helps set the gelatin and cools the mixture for layering.
How to Make This Creamy Citrus Classic
Begin by whisking the orange Jell-O into boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in the cold water and chill the mixture briefly to help it cool and begin to set.
Once slightly thickened, blend in the vanilla pudding mix to create a smooth, creamy base. Let it chill again until the texture is luscious and thick.
Finally, fold in Cool Whip, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows for a fluffy, fruity finish. Serve chilled and enjoy the sweet nostalgia in every bite.
Sweet Tips & Twists to Try
For an extra citrus punch, try using a splash of orange juice instead of part of the cold water. If you love texture, add crushed pineapple (drained well) for more tropical notes.
Prefer it lighter? Swap regular Cool Whip for a light or sugar-free version.
This recipe is also incredibly flexible—strawberry or peach Jell-O can be subbed in for a fun twist, and vanilla Greek yogurt can replace some Cool Whip for a tangy variation.
Want to make it more festive?
Garnish with fresh orange zest or top with extra marshmallows and orange slices right before serving. It’s an effortless way to make it look as good as it tastes.
Keeping It Fresh: Storing Orange Dreamsicle Salad
Orange dreamsicle salad is best enjoyed chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir gently before serving if it separates slightly. While freezing isn’t recommended due to texture changes, it holds up beautifully in the fridge for easy make-ahead planning. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods to maintain its creamy consistency.
Orange Dreamsicle Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 can 14 oz. mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 box orange-flavored Jell-O
- 8 oz. Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup cold water
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the orange Jell-O in the boiling water by whisking thoroughly. Pour in the cold water and place the bowl in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to cool.
- After chilling, briskly whisk the vanilla pudding mix into the gelatin until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Return it to the refrigerator for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the consistency begins to thicken slightly.
- Gently incorporate the Cool Whip, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows, folding them in until evenly combined.