Orange Fluff Jello Dessert Recipe | Creamy Cool Whip Fruit Salad
This retro Orange Fluff dessert mixes orange gelatin, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and Cool Whip into a creamy, citrusy salad that tastes like a creamsicle. It’s no-bake, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for potlucks or holidays.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 (3 oz) box orange gelatin
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups small-curd cottage cheese
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip or whipped topping, thawed
- Optional garnishes: extra mandarin segments, orange zest, toasted coconut, or chopped walnuts
Instructions
Instructions
- Chill mixing bowls and ingredients for about 10 minutes so everything stays cold.
- Drain the crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges very well, pressing out excess liquid.
- In a large bowl, stir the cottage cheese until smooth.
- Sprinkle in the dry orange gelatin and instant vanilla pudding, then fold until evenly combined and slightly thickened.
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges, keeping the orange segments as intact as possible.
- Fold in the thawed Cool Whip until no white streaks remain and the mixture is airy.
- Stir in the mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight until thick and scoopable.
- Garnish with extra mandarins, orange zest, toasted coconut, or chopped walnuts just before serving.
Notes
For best texture, drain fruit thoroughly and avoid overmixing. Use instant pudding, not cook-and-serve. Chill at least 2 hours before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; do not freeze. Stir gently before serving if slight separation occurs. Variations: add coconut and cherries for an ambrosia twist, use French vanilla pudding with orange zest for a creamsicle vibe, or swap fruits like mango or berries (pat fresh fruit dry).