Orange Dreamsicle Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours (recommended)
Total Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Difficulty: Easy
Category: Dessert / Fruit Salad
Ingredients
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1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained (reserve juice)
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1 (11 oz) can pineapple tidbits, drained
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1 cup mini marshmallows
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1 cup vanilla yogurt (or Greek yogurt for tangier)
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1 cup cool whip or homemade whipped cream
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1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
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½ cup orange juice (use juice reserved from mandarins plus fresh)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment
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Mixing bowl
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Electric mixer or whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Serving bowl or individual cups
Time & Skill
| Task | Time | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Ingredients | 15 minutes | Easy |
| Chill | 2 hours | Easy |
| Total Time | ~2 hrs 15 min | Easy |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and orange juice until thickened (about 2 minutes).
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Fold in vanilla yogurt and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add Fruit & Marshmallows
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Gently fold in the mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and mini marshmallows.
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Carefully fold in the whipped cream until everything is well combined and fluffy.
Step 3: Chill
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
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Serve chilled, garnished with a few orange segments or a sprinkle of orange zest if desired.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in individual dessert cups for a pretty presentation.
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Pair with light cookies or shortbread.
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Great for BBQs, picnics, or holiday tables.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugar | ~25g |
