Description
Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a light and refreshing no-bake dessert salad that blends the flavors of orange gelatin, creamy vanilla pudding, and fruity additions like mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple. Enhanced with mini marshmallows and whipped topping, this creamy fruit salad offers a nostalgic and delightful treat perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Gelatin and Pudding Mixture
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (3 oz) package orange gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple (undrained)
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Dissolve Gelatin: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the orange gelatin and boiling water until completely dissolved, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add Cold Water and Cool: Stir in the cold water and let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes to avoid melting the pudding mix.
- Combine with Pudding Mix: Once the gelatin mixture is slightly cooled, whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Thicken Gelatin: Refrigerate the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes until it begins to thicken and develop a creamy consistency.
- Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, undrained crushed pineapple, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until everything is evenly distributed.
- Chill Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the salad is fully chilled and set, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the salad cold for a refreshing and creamy dessert or side dish.
Notes
- For extra texture, consider adding shredded coconut or chopped pecans.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Stir gently before serving if chilled for several hours to redistribute ingredients.
