Description

Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the bright flavors of mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and creamy vanilla pudding. This easy-to-make salad is fluffy, sweet, and perfect for potlucks or as a refreshing treat on warm days. With the addition of mini marshmallows, whipped topping, and optional mix-ins like shredded coconut and pecans, this salad offers a nostalgic, creamy texture and a vibrant citrus twist reminiscent of the classic orange dreamsicle.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (do not drain)
1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges (drained well)
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (thawed)
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup cottage cheese (small curd, optional but classic)
1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
1 to 2 tablespoons orange juice (optional, for extra citrus flavor)

Optional Mix-ins and Garnish

1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Extra mandarin segments
Orange zest

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Instructions

Mix Pudding and Pineapple: In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix into the crushed pineapple (with its juice) until smooth and slightly thickened, about 1 minute.
Add Dairy Ingredients: Stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and cottage cheese (if using) until combined well.
Fold in Oranges and Marshmallows: Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and orange zest (if using) to maintain the salad’s texture.
Incorporate Whipped Topping: Carefully fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is fluffy and evenly mixed.
Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the salad to thicken and the flavors to blend harmoniously.
Serve and Garnish: Stir the salad once before serving, and add optional coconut or nuts if desired. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra mandarin segments and orange zest.

Notes

Drain the mandarin oranges thoroughly to ensure the salad remains thick and creamy.
For an intensified “dreamsicle” flavor, add additional orange zest and a splash of orange juice, or substitute the vanilla pudding with orange-flavored instant pudding.
Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Optional mix-ins like shredded coconut and chopped pecans add texture and flavor variation.