Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe

Introduction

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert that combines the bright flavor of mandarin oranges with the smooth texture of vanilla pudding and whipped topping. It’s a refreshing treat perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 6 ounce package orange gelatin
• 2 (3 ounce) packages vanilla cook and serve pudding mix
• 4 cups hot water
• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 16 ounce can mandarin oranges, drained

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large saucepan, combine the orange gelatin, vanilla pudding mix, and hot water.
2. Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to avoid lumps.
3. Step 3: Continue boiling and stirring until the mixture turns a clear orange color, about 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Pour the mixture into a large bowl and chill in the refrigerator overnight, or until set, approximately 4 hours.
5. Step 5: Once chilled, combine the Cool Whip with the jello and pudding mixture. Using a potato masher can help blend them smoothly.
6. Step 6: Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges to keep their shape intact.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• For extra texture, add chopped walnuts or shredded coconut before refrigerating.
• Use fresh mandarin oranges for a natural citrus flavor, but be sure to remove seeds.
• Substitute Cool Whip with whipped cream for a richer taste.

Storage

Store the jello salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness. Before serving, give it a gentle stir. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use sugar-free gelatin or pudding mix?

Yes, sugar-free versions can be used, but the texture may be slightly different. Adjust sweetness by adding a little sugar or a sweetener if needed.

How long should I chill the salad before serving?

The salad should be chilled until set, typically about 4 hours, but overnight chilling helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up perfectly.

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 66 reviews

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad is a nostalgic, refreshing dessert featuring a blend of orange gelatin and vanilla pudding, combined with fluffy Cool Whip and sweet mandarin oranges. This easy-to-make, chilled salad offers a creamy, fruity treat perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a light, flavorful dessert on warm days.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert, Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Gelatin and Pudding Mixture

• 6 ounce package orange gelatin
• 2 (3 ounce) packages vanilla cook and serve pudding mix
• 4 cups hot water

Other Ingredients

• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 16 ounce can mandarin oranges, drained

Instructions

1. Combine gelatin and pudding mix: In a large saucepan, mix together the orange gelatin, vanilla pudding mix, and hot water until well combined.
2. Cook the mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning or clumping.
3. Boil until clear: Continue boiling and stirring the mixture for about 5 minutes until it turns a clear orange color, indicating the gelatin and pudding are fully dissolved and integrated.
4. Chill the mixture: Pour the hot mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate. Chill overnight for the best texture or until set, approximately 4 hours.
5. Fold in Cool Whip: Once the gelatin mixture is chilled and set, combine it with the Cool Whip by gently mashing with a potato masher or folding carefully to maintain a fluffy texture.
6. Add mandarin oranges: Gently stir in the drained mandarin oranges, distributing them evenly throughout the salad.
7. Final chill: Refrigerate the completed salad until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.

Notes

• For best results, chill the mixture overnight, though 4 hours is sufficient if pressed for time.
• If Cool Whip is not available, whipped cream can be used as a substitute.
• Ensure mandarin oranges are well drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
• This salad is best served cold and can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Use a potato masher or gentle folding to combine Cool Whip without deflating the mixture.

Keywords: Mandarin Orange Jello Salad, jello salad, orange gelatin dessert, creamy gelatin salad, mandarin orange dessert, vintage jello salad