Imagine the sweet, refreshing taste of creamy oranges with a hint of vanilla—like a nostalgic dreamsicle in every bite! This Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a no-fuss, no-bake holiday treat that will brighten up your Christmas dessert table with its vibrant color and delightful flavors. It’s ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or simply as a tasty, festive dessert to enjoy throughout the season. ✨
With a base of orange-flavored Jell-O and creamy vanilla pudding, this salad gets its luscious texture from fluffy whipped topping and a bit of crunch from marshmallows. Each bite delivers a light, refreshing taste that’s just the right amount of sweet and tangy. Plus, the juicy mandarin oranges make it visually stunning and add a burst of fresh citrus flavor. 🍊
Simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a perfect make-ahead dessert that keeps well in the refrigerator. Serve it up in a beautiful glass dish or in individual dessert cups for a bit of holiday flair. 🎅🍨
🎄 Orange Dreamsicle Christmas Salad Recipe 🍊
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Calories per Serving: Approximately 150
Ingredients
- 1 box orange-flavored Jell-O
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 8 oz. container of Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream for a healthier option)
- 14 oz. can of mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare the Jell-O: In a large mixing bowl, add the orange Jell-O powder. Pour in the boiling water and whisk until the Jell-O is completely dissolved.
- Chill Slightly: Add cold water to the Jell-O mixture and refrigerate for about 15 minutes, allowing it to cool but not fully set.
- Add Pudding Mix: Slowly whisk in the vanilla pudding mix until the mixture is smooth. Return to the refrigerator and chill for another 15–20 minutes, or until it begins to slightly thicken.
- Fold in Toppings: Gently fold in the Cool Whip, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to keep the salad fluffy.
- Final Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend and the salad to firm up.
🎅 Notes & Variations
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Swap out Cool Whip for freshly whipped cream to elevate the flavors and reduce added sugars.
- Festive Add-Ins: Add a handful of crushed peppermint candies or a sprinkle of coconut flakes on top before serving for a festive touch.
- Additional Fruits: Try adding a few pineapple chunks or cherries for an extra pop of color and flavor.
This Orange Dreamsicle Christmas Salad will add a cheerful, colorful vibe to your holiday celebrations and is sure to become a family favorite! 🎉