Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe

Introduction

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad is a nostalgic, refreshing dessert that combines the sweet tang of mandarin oranges with creamy pudding and fluffy Cool Whip. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you want a light, fruity treat.

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 over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent 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 until set, either overnight or about 4 hours.
5. Step 5: Once chilled, fold in the Cool Whip using a potato masher or spoon to blend well and create a smooth texture.
6. Step 6: Gently stir in the drained mandarin oranges, being careful not to crush them.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• For a tangier twist, add a splash of fresh orange juice when mixing in the pudding and gelatin.
• Substitute pineapple tidbits for mandarin oranges for a different fruity flavor.
• Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a fresher taste.
• Serve in individual cups for easy portioning at parties.

Storage

Store the Mandarin Orange Jello Salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving if separation occurs. This salad is best served chilled and should not be frozen, as it will affect the texture and consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant pudding mix instead of cook and serve?

Cook and serve pudding is recommended because it thickens properly when boiled and combines well with the gelatin. Instant pudding may result in a different texture, but you can experiment if desired.

What can I do if the salad is too firm after chilling?

If the salad is too firm, gently fold in a little more Cool Whip or some milk to soften the texture before serving.

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 81 reviews

A refreshing and creamy Mandarin Orange Jello Salad combining tangy orange gelatin with smooth vanilla pudding, topped with fluffy Cool Whip and sweet mandarin oranges. This dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a light, fruity treat.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Gelatin and Pudding Base

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

Toppings and Mix-ins

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

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix together the orange gelatin, vanilla cook and serve pudding mix, and hot water.
2. Boil Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
3. Continue Boiling: Keep boiling and stirring until the mixture turns a clear orange color, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Chill Mixture: Pour the hot mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate. Chill overnight for best results, or for at least 4 hours until it is fully set.
5. Mix in Cool Whip: Once set, fold in the Cool Whip using a potato masher or spatula to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
6. Add Mandarin Oranges: Gently stir in the drained mandarin oranges to distribute evenly throughout the salad.
7. Final Chill: Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing all flavors to meld together nicely.

Notes

• For a thicker pudding texture, do not add additional water beyond what the pudding mix requires.
• Use fresh mandarin oranges if canned are not available, but ensure they are well-drained to prevent excess liquid.
• The potato masher is recommended for folding the Cool Whip to maintain fluffiness without overmixing.
• This salad can be prepared a day ahead, making it ideal for events or busy days.
• To add crunch, consider topping with chopped nuts just before serving.

Keywords: Mandarin Orange Jello Salad, orange gelatin dessert, creamy jello salad, cook and serve pudding, Cool Whip dessert, easy fruit salad, holiday dessert, potluck recipe