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Creamy Orange Creamsicle Salad with mandarin oranges, whipped topping, and marshmallows.
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Orange Creamsicle Salad

Orange Creamsicle Salad is a deliciously sweet and creamy dessert made with mandarin oranges, whipped cream, and a smooth texture. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for parties, BBQs, or as a cool treat on hot days.
Prep Time10 minutes
Active Time10 minutes
Resting Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: citrus dessert, creamy fruit salad, easy fruit salad recipe, Orange Creamsicle Salad, summer dessert
Yield: 8 servings
Cost: $8 - $12 (depending on location and availability of ingredients)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Serving dish or bowl
  • Refrigerator (for chilling)

Materials

  • 1 package of orange gelatin 3 oz
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 can of mandarin oranges drained
  • 1 cup whipped topping such as Cool Whip
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows optional
  • ½ cup crushed pineapple optional
  • ½ cup cottage cheese optional for extra creaminess

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin:

  • In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved. Add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture and stir again. Let the gelatin cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Add Fruit and Dairy Ingredients:

  • Fold in the drained mandarin oranges and pineapple (if using) into the gelatin mixture. Then, add the whipped topping and mix until smooth and creamy.

Add Marshmallows (Optional):

  • Gently fold in mini marshmallows if you want an extra sweet, chewy texture. If you're using cottage cheese, now is the time to add it as well to create a creamier consistency.

Chill the Salad:

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until fully set.

Serve:

  • Once chilled and set, serve the salad in individual bowls or a large serving dish. Garnish with additional marshmallows or fruit if desired.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the whipped topping with coconut cream and skip the cottage cheese.
You can customize this recipe by adding other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a colorful twist.
If you prefer a firmer texture, try reducing the amount of water or using a larger package of gelatin.
For a fun variation, you can freeze the salad for a creamsicle-inspired frozen dessert.