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Orange Dreamsicle Salad

Orange Dreamsicle Salad

  • Author: kenzie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes Chill Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Description

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a light, creamy, and nostalgic dessert-style salad that combines bright citrus flavor with a smooth whipped texture. It has that classic creamsicle taste, sweet, tangy, and fluffy, with soft bites of fruit and marshmallows for the perfect balance.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 cup whipped topping
  • 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
  • 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese (optional, for creaminess)

Instructions

Dissolve the Gelatin

In a mixing bowl, pour the orange gelatin powder and add the boiling water. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved with no granules left. This step is important to get a smooth and even texture later.

Cool the Mixture

Add the cold water and stir again. Let the mixture sit at room temperature until it cools down but is not fully set. It should be slightly thickened, similar to a syrupy consistency.

Create the Creamy Base

Once the gelatin has cooled, gently fold in the whipped topping and vanilla yogurt. Mix slowly to keep the texture light and fluffy. The color will turn into a soft pastel orange, giving that classic dreamsicle look.

Add Mix-Ins

Fold in the drained mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and cottage cheese if using. Mix gently so the fruit stays intact and evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.

Chill to Set

Transfer the mixture into serving bowls or a large dish. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until it firms up into a soft, mousse-like consistency.

Garnish and Serve

 

Before serving, top with a dollop of whipped cream, a few mandarin slices, and a sprinkle of crushed nuts or extra marshmallows for texture and presentation.


Notes

  • Make sure gelatin is cooled before adding whipped topping
  • Drain oranges well to avoid extra liquid
  • Do not overmix to keep it airy and light

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 180 per serving