Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe

Introduction

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad is a nostalgic, refreshing dessert that perfectly balances sweet and fruity flavors. It combines creamy vanilla pudding with zesty orange gelatin and juicy mandarin oranges for a light and delightful 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.
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 until set, either overnight or for about 4 hours.
5. Step 5: Once chilled, fold in the Cool Whip using a potato masher or spoon to combine evenly.
6. Step 6: Gently stir in the drained mandarin oranges.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh mandarin oranges for a more vibrant flavor and texture instead of canned.
• For a lighter version, substitute Cool Whip with whipped cream or Greek yogurt.
• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast.
• If you prefer a tangier salad, mix in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice before chilling.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving to redistribute any separated liquids. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and does not reheat well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant pudding instead of cook and serve?

Cook and serve pudding helps create the right texture when boiled with gelatin. Instant pudding won’t set the same way, so it’s best to stick with cook and serve for this recipe.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can make this salad a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. This actually allows the flavors to meld better and improves the texture.

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 146 reviews

This Mandarin Orange Jello Salad is a vibrant, creamy dessert salad combining the refreshing citrus flavor of mandarin oranges with a smooth blend of orange gelatin and vanilla pudding. Perfectly chilled and topped with fluffy Cool Whip, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and texture, ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or anytime you want a light, fruity treat.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salads
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Gelatin and Pudding Mix

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

Toppings and Add-ins

• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 16 ounce can mandarin oranges (drained)

Instructions

1. Combine gelatin, pudding mix, and hot water: In a large saucepan, add the orange gelatin, vanilla cook and serve pudding mix, and 4 cups of hot water. Stir to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
2. Bring to a boil while stirring: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve all components evenly and prevent sticking.
3. Continue boiling to a clear orange color: Keep boiling and stirring for about 5 minutes or until the gelatin-pudding mixture turns a clear orange color, indicating it is properly cooked and mixed.
4. Chill the mixture: Pour the hot mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate. Chill overnight for best results or allow to chill about 4 hours until the mixture is fully set.
5. Mix in the Cool Whip: Once set, use a potato masher or similar tool to gently fold the Cool Whip into the gelatin-pudding mixture until evenly combined and fluffy.
6. Add mandarin oranges and stir: Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, taking care not to break the fruit apart.
7. Refrigerate before serving: Return the salad to the refrigerator to chill until ready to serve, ensuring it is well set and cool.

Notes

• Using a potato masher helps to blend the Cool Whip evenly without overmixing.
• Make sure mandarin oranges are well drained to avoid watering down the salad.
• This salad is best served cold and can be prepared a day in advance.
• Adjust sweetness by selecting sugar-free gelatin and pudding mixes for a lighter option.
• For added texture, consider folding in chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired.

Keywords: mandarin orange jello salad, orange gelatin dessert, creamy jello salad, holiday salad, fruit salad with pudding