Creamsicle Orange Fluff Salad Recipe – A Sweet, Creamy No-Bake Dessert
If you love classic no-bake desserts, this Creamsicle Orange Fluff Salad will steal your heart. Bursting with bright orange flavor, creamy vanilla pudding, sweet mandarin oranges, and fluffy marshmallows, this retro-inspired treat tastes just like a creamsicle in a bowl.
Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a cool, refreshing dessert, this recipe is easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite.
Below you’ll find step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and answers to common questions so your fluff salad turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients for Creamsicle Orange Fluff
Yield: 10–12 servings
1 box (3 ounces) orange gelatin (Jell-O)
1 cup hot water
1/2 cup cold water
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip, thawed
2 cans (15 ounces each) mandarin oranges, drained (about 30 ounces total)
1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
1 package (10 ounces) mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Dissolve the Gelatin
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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1 box orange gelatin mix
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1 cup hot water
Whisk vigorously for 1–2 minutes, until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
Step 2: Add Cold Water
Pour in 1/2 cup cold water and stir well to blend.
Step 3: Chill Until Slightly Set
Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill for 15–20 minutes.
You’re aiming for the gelatin to be slightly thickened but not firm—this helps the pudding incorporate smoothly.
Step 4: Mix in Vanilla Pudding
Remove the bowl from the refrigerator.
Sprinkle the instant vanilla pudding mix over the gelatin.
Whisk for 2–3 minutes, until the mixture becomes creamy and fully combined.
Step 5: Chill Again
Return the bowl to the refrigerator for another 15–20 minutes to let it thicken slightly before folding in the rest of the ingredients.
Step 6: Fold in Cool Whip
Take the bowl out of the fridge.
Add 8 ounces thawed Cool Whip.
Using a spatula, gently fold until the mixture is uniform in color and texture.
Step 7: Prepare the Fruit
While the base chills, drain the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple thoroughly.
Removing excess liquid is essential to keep your salad from becoming watery.
Step 8: Fold in Fruit and Marshmallows
Add the drained fruit and 10 ounces mini marshmallows to the bowl.
Using a spatula, gently fold everything together, being careful not to break up the mandarin oranges too much.
Step 9: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to blend and the mixture to set completely.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon into bowls or cups.
For extra color, garnish with a few reserved mandarin segments or a sprinkle of mini marshmallows on top.
Enjoy your creamy, dreamy creamsicle fluff!
Pro Tips for Success
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Drain Well: Make sure all canned fruit is very well-drained to prevent excess liquid.
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Fold Gently: This keeps the fluff light and the mandarin oranges whole.
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Keep Ingredients Cold: Use cold Cool Whip and chilled gelatin for the best texture.
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Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better when it chills overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use sugar-free gelatin or pudding?
A: Yes—sugar-free versions work well if you prefer a lighter dessert.
Q: What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
A: You can use freshly whipped cream (whip about 1 1/2 cups heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar) but note it won’t stay as stable as Cool Whip.
Q: How long does this keep?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I add nuts or coconut?
A: Absolutely—try 1/2 cup chopped pecans or 1/2 cup shredded coconut for extra texture.
Why You’ll Love Creamsicle Orange Fluff
Easy no-bake dessert
Feeds a crowd
Sweet, nostalgic flavor
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and summer picnics
Ready in about 20 minutes of hands-on prep