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Orange Dreamsicle Salad | Creamy, Sweet & Refreshing

Sometimes called an Ambrosia-style salad, Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a retro dessert that never goes out of style. Bursting with sweet mandarin oranges, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, it tastes just like a childhood orange creamsicle in a bowl. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make—no oven required! This creamy fruit salad is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, family gatherings, holidays, or just a weeknight dessert. Best of all, it takes only minutes to prepare and chills beautifully for serving later.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup milk cold
  • 1 container 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
  • 1 can 15 oz mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • ½ cup shredded coconut optional
  • ½ cup pineapple tidbits drained (optional for extra sweetness)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Can opener (for fruit)
  • Serving bowl or trifle dish

Method
 

Step 1: Make the pudding base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
Step 2: Fold in whipped topping
  1. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined, creating a light, fluffy mixture.
Step 3: Add fruit and extras
  1. Stir in mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and (if using) coconut and pineapple. Mix gently to avoid breaking the fruit.
Step 4: Chill
  1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps flavors meld and marshmallows soften.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Spoon into serving bowls, or present in a trifle dish topped with extra oranges or marshmallows for garnish.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended—marshmallows and fruit lose texture.
Best Served: Chilled, directly from the fridge.
🥄 Variations
Dreamsicle Jello Salad: Add a box of orange Jell-O for extra citrus flavor.
Cherry Twist: Mix in halved maraschino cherries for a pop of color.
Healthy Swap: Use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts before serving.
Extra Creamy: Fold in ½ cup sour cream or vanilla yogurt for tang.
Berry Dreamsicle: Add strawberries or blueberries for a fruity mix.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made a few hours ahead so it has time to chill.
Do I need fresh oranges?
Canned mandarins work best because they’re soft and sweet.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes! Just whip heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla.
What if my salad is too thick?
Add a splash of milk to loosen the texture.
Can kids help make this?
Definitely—it’s an easy, no-bake recipe kids love to assemble.
Is it served as dessert or side dish?
Both! It works as a sweet side at potlucks or a light dessert.
Can I leave out the marshmallows?
Yes, but they add fun sweetness and texture.
What’s the difference between this and ambrosia salad?
Ambrosia usually has coconut and cherries—this focuses on orange flavor.
How long can it sit out?
No more than 2 hours—keep chilled for best taste and safety.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—perfect for parties and gatherings.
🏁 Conclusion
Orange Dreamsicle Salad is creamy, fruity, and irresistibly nostalgic. With sweet oranges, fluffy whipped topping, and pudding, it’s a dish that tastes just like summer in every bite.
Whether you serve it as a side at a potluck, a fun holiday dessert, or a refreshing family treat, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Simple, quick, and delicious—this is comfort food in a bowl!