Orange Creamsicle Fluff is a light, creamy, citrusy no-bake dessert salad with sweet mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and a nostalgic orange-vanilla flavor. I like serving it chilled for potlucks, parties, family dinners, or any time I want an easy make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 oz orange gelatin mix
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
3.4 oz vanilla instant pudding mix
8 oz whipped topping, thawed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups mini marshmallows
28 oz mandarin oranges, drained
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk the orange gelatin mix into the boiling water until it fully dissolves.
I stir in the cold water, then place the bowl in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
I remove the bowl from the refrigerator, add the vanilla pudding mix, and stir until smooth and fully combined. Then I return it to the refrigerator for 20 more minutes.
I fold in the softened cream cheese until mostly smooth, then gently fold in the whipped topping.
I add most of the mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows, saving a small amount of each for garnish. I fold everything together until evenly mixed.
I cover the bowl and refrigerate it for 2 hours, or until the fluff is chilled and fluffy.
I spoon it into serving bowls and garnish with the remaining marshmallows and mandarin oranges before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Calories: about 220 kcal per serving
Variations
I like adding crushed pineapple for extra fruitiness, but I make sure to drain it well first.
I can use rainbow mini marshmallows for more color.
I sometimes add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
I can swap the orange gelatin for peach or strawberry gelatin for a different fruity version.
Storage/Reheating
I store Orange Creamsicle Fluff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
I do not reheat this recipe because it is meant to be served cold. Before serving leftovers, I gently stir the fluff to bring back its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make Orange Creamsicle Fluff ahead of time?
Yes, I like making it several hours ahead so it has enough time to chill and set properly.
Can I use fresh oranges instead of mandarin oranges?
Yes, but I prefer canned mandarin oranges because they are soft, sweet, and easy to fold into the fluff.
Can I freeze Orange Creamsicle Fluff?
I do not recommend freezing it because the creamy texture can become watery after thawing.
Why is my fluff runny?
It may need more chill time, or the oranges may not have been drained well enough.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, I can use homemade whipped cream, but whipped topping usually holds its shape better for this dessert.
Conclusion
Orange Creamsicle Fluff is creamy, fruity, and easy to make with no baking required. I love how the orange and vanilla flavors come together with fluffy marshmallows and juicy mandarin oranges for a nostalgic dessert that feels perfect for any occasion.
📖 Recipe:
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Orange Creamsicle Fluff
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
Orange Creamsicle Fluff is a light, creamy, no-bake dessert salad with bright citrus flavor, mini marshmallows, and a nostalgic orange-vanilla taste. Perfect for make-ahead gatherings and served chilled.
Ingredients
3 oz orange gelatin mix
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
3.4 oz vanilla instant pudding mix
8 oz whipped topping, thawed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups mini marshmallows
28 oz mandarin oranges, drained
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the orange gelatin mix into the boiling water until fully dissolved.
- Stir in the cold water and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the refrigerator, add the vanilla pudding mix, and stir until smooth. Return to the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
- Fold in the softened cream cheese until mostly smooth, then gently fold in the whipped topping.
- Add most of the mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows, reserving a small amount for garnish. Fold until evenly combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until chilled and fluffy.
- Spoon into serving bowls and garnish with remaining marshmallows and mandarin oranges before serving.
Notes
Drain mandarin oranges well to prevent a runny texture.
Add crushed pineapple (well-drained) for extra fruit flavor.
Use rainbow marshmallows for a colorful variation.
Shredded coconut can add a tropical twist.
Swap orange gelatin for peach or strawberry for different flavors.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir gently before serving leftovers to restore texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
