Creamsicle Orange Fluff combines orange jello, vanilla cheesecake pudding, Cool Whip, mandarin oranges, and pastel marshmallows for a light, creamy dessert perfect for potlucks and holidays.
You know how some recipes just stick with you? The kind you can almost taste the moment you think about them? That’s this Creamsicle Orange Fluff for me.
It was always on the dessert table at my grandma’s summer BBQs. She’d make a huge batch in this massive glass bowl that somehow made it look extra fancy with all those bright oranges and pastel marshmallows. I was the kid sneaking a spoonful before dinner—because who could resist?
Funny enough, I never saw her use a recipe. It was all muscle memory. Years later, when I tried to recreate it, I had to call her and scribble it down on a sticky note while she casually tossed out measurements like, “Oh, just enough Cool Whip until it feels right.”
Now, it’s a must for every family gathering I host. And honestly? It still tastes like pure nostalgia—sweet, creamy, citrusy, and so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you don’t whip it up more often.
Why You’ll Love This Creamsicle Orange Fluff Recipe?
- No Oven Needed: Seriously, zero cooking involved.
- Quick to Make: The hardest part? Waiting for it to chill.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for big family gatherings or potlucks.
- Nostalgic & Playful: The pastel marshmallows? Instant childhood flashback.
- Budget-Friendly: Just a few simple ingredients make this magic happen.
Ingredient Notes:
This dessert is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create pure dessert bliss:
- Orange Jello: It’s bright, citrusy, and gives the fluff its signature creamsicle flavor.
- Vanilla Cheesecake Pudding Mix: The secret weapon! It adds creaminess and a cheesecake-like tang.
- Cool Whip: The fluff factor. You could use homemade whipped cream, but I promise the classic version hits just right.
- Mandarin Oranges: Sweet, juicy bursts of fruit—drain them well, though, or things get watery.
- Pastel Mini Marshmallows: They’re not just cute; they add a fun chewy contrast once softened.
Pro Tip: Want a deeper orange flavor? Add a splash of orange extract or zest!
How To Make Creamsicle Orange Fluff?
This dessert is basically foolproof. Seriously, if you can stir, you can make this!
Step 1: Dissolve the Jello
Start by adding the orange Jello powder to a large bowl. Pour in 1 cup of boiling water and stir until the gelatin completely dissolves. This part always smells amazing, by the way.
Step 2: Chill It a Bit
Now, pour in ½ cup of cold water and give it a stir. Pop the bowl in the fridge for about 20 minutes. You want it to start thickening but not fully set.
Step 3: Add the Pudding Mix
Once the Jello’s slightly thickened, sprinkle in the vanilla cheesecake pudding mix. Whisk it until smooth and creamy. It’ll thicken pretty quickly—totally normal!
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Step 4: Chill Again
Let the mixture chill for another 20 minutes. This step is important because it gives the pudding time to set and get extra creamy.
Step 5: Fold in the Fluff
Here’s where the fun happens! Gently fold in the Cool Whip, drained mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows. Be gentle—you want the oranges whole, not mashed.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
Transfer your fluffy masterpiece to a serving bowl, cover it up, and let it chill for 1-2 hours. It tastes even better once those flavors have a chance to meld.
Want it to look extra fancy? Garnish with a few extra mandarin slices and a sprinkle of marshmallows right before serving.
Storage Options:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The marshmallows will soften more, but it’s still delicious.
- Freezer: Not recommended. The texture turns weirdly icy.
- Make Ahead: Great news—this dish actually gets better when made a few hours ahead!
Variations and Substitutions:
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists you can try:
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in ½ cup chopped pecans for some texture.
- Berry Bliss: Swap mandarin oranges for fresh strawberries or raspberries.
- Tropical Twist: Use pineapple Jello and swap mandarins for pineapple chunks.
- Extra Creamy: Use Greek yogurt instead of Cool Whip for a tangier twist.
- Holiday Vibes: Roll the marshmallows in colored sugar for festive flair.
What to Serve with Creamsicle Orange Fluff?
This fluff stands on its own, but if you’re looking to go all out, try pairing it with:
- Vanilla Wafers: Perfect for scooping!
- Shortbread Cookies: Buttery cookies + creamy fluff = bliss.
- Angel Food Cake: Light and airy just like the fluff itself.
- Fresh Berries: Adds a nice tart contrast to the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely, but Cool Whip gives it that classic fluff texture.
My fluff seems watery—what happened?
It’s usually from not draining the mandarin oranges enough. Drain them really well next time, and you’ll be golden.
There’s something about this Creamsicle Orange Fluff that just feels right—like summer afternoons and family potlucks wrapped into a single bite. Whether you’re making it for a BBQ, holiday gathering, or just because you really need dessert (hey, no judgment), it’s a total win.
So, what do you think? Gonna give it a try? If you do, I’d love to see your masterpiece! Snap a pic, tag me, and let’s keep the fluff love going.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Creamsicle Orange Fluff
Ingredients
- 1 box Orange jello
- 1 box instant vanilla cheesecake pudding mix
- 1 c. boiling water
- ½ c. cold water
- 8 oz. Cool Whip
- 1 small can of mandarin oranges
- 1 c. pastel-colored miniature marshmallows
Instructions
- Start by dissolving orange jello in a bowl. Add one cup of boiling water and stir until it completely dissolves.
- Next, pour half a cup of water into the bowl. Let it chill for about 20 minutes until it thickens.
- Then sprinkle the instant vanilla cheesecake pudding mix into the bowl. Whisk it well until everything is combined.
- Chill the mixture for another 20 minutes or so until it thickens more.
- Now gently fold in eight ounces of Cool Whip along, with mandarin oranges and one cup of marshmallows.
- Refrigerate the mixture for one to two hours to let it set.
- Before serving you can garnish it with some mandarin oranges, optional marshmallows and mint leaves. Enjoy your treat!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
