I enjoy making this salad because it’s easy, fun, and brings a nostalgic flavor to the table. I like that it combines creamy textures with juicy mandarin oranges, creating a dessert that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare. It’s a great treat for family gatherings or a quick sweet snack.
Ingredients
(Her’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.) 2 1/4 cups water 3.4 ounces tapioca pudding (cook and serve) 3.5 ounces instant vanilla pudding 3 ounces orange Jello mix 8 ounces whipped cream (thawed) 14 ounces mandarin oranges (drained)
Directions
I combine the water, tapioca pudding mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, and orange Jello mix in a large saucepan. I heat it over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil.
I remove the pan from heat and pour the mixture into a large bowl, letting it cool to room temperature for about 1 hour or until completely cooled.
Once the mixture is cooled, I stir in the mandarin oranges and whipped cream. I pour everything into a serving dish, cover it, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, mostly due to cooling and chilling time, making it an easy dessert to prepare ahead.
Variations
I sometimes add a few sliced strawberries or crushed pineapple for extra fruitiness. I also like topping it with toasted coconut flakes or slivered almonds for added texture. For a slightly tangier flavor, I substitute part of the whipped cream with Greek yogurt.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is served cold, so no reheating is needed. I give it a gentle stir before serving if it has settled.
FAQs
Can I Use Fresh Mandarin Oranges?
Yes, I often use fresh mandarins or peeled clementines. I just drain any excess juice before adding them to the salad.
Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely. I usually make it a few hours or even the day before to allow it to chill and set perfectly.
Can I Use Low-Fat Ingredients?
Yes, I can use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives for pudding and whipped cream, but the texture may be slightly lighter.
Can I Add Extra Flavorings?
I sometimes add a splash of orange extract or a sprinkle of vanilla for more depth of flavor.
Can I Make More Servings?
Yes, I double the ingredients and use a larger serving dish. I just make sure to maintain the chilling time for proper setting.
Conclusion
I love making this Easy Orange Creamsicle Salad because it’s creamy, fruity, and reminiscent of a nostalgic treat. It’s simple to prepare, refreshing, and always a hit at any table.
The Best Orange Creamsicle Salad with a light, fluffy texture and bright orange flavor. Easy to make and perfect for summer or festive desserts.
Author:Emma
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:2 hours (including cooling)
Total Time:2 hours 15 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dessert / Salad
Method:Mixing & Chilling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 ¼ cups water
3.4 oz tapioca pudding (cook and serve)
3.5 oz instant vanilla pudding
3 oz orange Jello mix
8 oz whipped cream (thawed)
14 oz mandarin oranges, drained
Instructions
In a large saucepan, combine water, tapioca pudding mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, and orange Jello mix. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil.
Remove from heat and pour into a large bowl. Let cool to room temperature for 1 hour, or until completely cooled.
Once cooled, gently stir in mandarin oranges and whipped cream.
Pour the mixture into a serving dish, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
For extra texture, you can add crushed vanilla wafers or chopped nuts before chilling.
Make sure the pudding and Jello mixture is fully cooled before adding whipped cream to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
Can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
