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Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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