Description
This Orange Creamsicle Fluff Salad is a refreshing and sweet dessert salad that combines tangy orange jello, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy cool whip with mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows. Perfectly chilled and delightful for hot days or potlucks, it offers a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of a classic creamsicle treat in a light, airy salad form.
Ingredients
Scale
Gelatin & Pudding Mixes
- 1 box orange jello mix (approximately 3 oz)
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (about 3.4 oz)
Liquids
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Dairy & Cream
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
Fruits & Sweets
- 1 can (28 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Dissolve the Jello: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup boiling water and the orange jello mix until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Chill the Jello Mixture: Stir in 1/2 cup cold water and refrigerate the bowl for 10-15 minutes, allowing the mixture to cool and begin setting slightly.
- Add Pudding Mix: Stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix thoroughly into the slightly set jello mixture, then chill again for another 15 minutes to thicken further.
- Fold in Remaining Ingredients: Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows until everything is evenly combined, preserving the fluffiness.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to let it set fully and flavors meld before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, use thawed Cool Whip and well-drained mandarin oranges to prevent excess liquid in the salad.
- The salad can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Mini marshmallows add sweetness and texture; you can substitute with large marshmallows cut into smaller pieces if not available.
- This salad is a great make-ahead dessert for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
