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Mandarin Orange Jello Salad 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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