Orange Dreamsicle Salad

A light, creamy dessert salad with mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, marshmallows and a vanilla pudding–whipped topping base — like a frozen creamsicle in a bowl.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cup milk use cold milk to set pudding
1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
11 oz mandarin oranges, drained
8 oz crushed pineapple, drained
2 cup mini marshmallows
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp fresh orange zest optional, for garnish and flavor

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Drain the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple well and set aside to remove excess liquid.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until the pudding begins to thicken.
Fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding until smooth and fully combined.
Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or container, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and marshmallows soften.
Before serving, sprinkle with fresh orange zest for extra brightness.

Notes

For a lighter version use low-fat whipped topping and low-fat milk. This salad keeps well for 2–3 days refrigerated; marshmallows will continue to soften over time.