If you love the creamy, citrusy flavor of a Dreamsicle, you’re going to adore this Mandarin Orange Jello Salad. This bright, fluffy dessert salad has been a beloved family favorite for years and is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a sweet, refreshing treat.
Why We Love It
This salad combines the zesty brightness of mandarin oranges with a creamy, mousse-like texture. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Bonus: It’s also versatile—you can serve it as a side dish or a dessert, whichever your family prefers!
Ingredients
- 6 oz orange gelatin
- 2 (3 oz) packages vanilla cook-and-serve pudding mix
- 4 cups hot water
- 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
- 1 (16 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
Instructions
- Cook gelatin and pudding: In a large saucepan, combine the orange gelatin, vanilla pudding mix, and hot water. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Continue boiling for about 5 minutes until the mixture turns a clear orange color (not cloudy).
- Chill: Pour the mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Combine with Cool Whip: Once chilled, fold in the Cool Whip using a potato masher or spatula until smooth and fluffy.
- Add oranges: Gently stir in the drained mandarin oranges.
- Chill again: Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips for Success
- Avoid instant pudding mixes—they don’t work well for this recipe.
- Drain the mandarin oranges thoroughly to prevent extra liquid.
- Using a potato masher helps blend the Cool Whip evenly into the gelatin mixture for the best fluffy texture.
- Fresh whipped cream can be used instead of Cool Whip, but the salad may become watery faster.
- For extra citrus punch, add an additional can of mandarin oranges.
- Try swapping orange gelatin for strawberry to make a Strawberry Jello Salad variation.
Storage
Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended as the texture will break down.
This easy Mandarin Orange Jello Salad is a nostalgic and delicious way to brighten up any meal or celebration. Give it a try—you might just find a new family favorite!