If you’re looking for a quick, refreshing, and creamy dessert that feels like sunshine in a bowl, this Easy Creamy Mandarin Orange Delight is exactly what you need. Made with juicy mandarin oranges, fluffy whipped topping, and sweet vanilla pudding, it’s a no-bake dessert that’s light, luscious, and perfect for any occasion — from picnics to potlucks to holiday gatherings.
This dreamy, citrus-infused treat takes just minutes to prepare and delivers a burst of tropical sweetness in every spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
🍊 Quick & Easy: No baking, no fuss — just mix, chill, and enjoy!
🍰 Light and Refreshing: Creamy texture meets juicy, tangy mandarins for the perfect balance.
🥄 Crowd-Pleasing: A favorite at family gatherings, BBQs, and potlucks.
💛 Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavor gets even better after chilling overnight.
🌴 Tropical Twist: The oranges bring a bright, sunshiney vibe that’s perfect year-round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained (reserve a few for garnish)
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- ½ cup mini marshmallows (optional for extra fluff)
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional for tropical flavor)
How to Make Easy Creamy Mandarin Orange Delight
Step 1: Mix the Pudding Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
Add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and whisk again until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Using a spatula, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain. This gives the dessert its airy, cloud-like texture.
Step 3: Add the Mandarin Oranges
Fold in the drained mandarin oranges, being careful not to break them up too much — you want beautiful little bursts of citrus throughout the mixture.
If you’re adding mini marshmallows or coconut, fold them in now as well.
Step 4: Chill the Dessert
Spoon the mixture into a serving bowl or individual dessert cups.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor and texture).
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Before serving, top with extra mandarin orange slices, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, or a dollop of whipped cream for a pretty presentation.
Serve chilled and enjoy the cool, creamy, fruity perfection! 🍊✨
Flavor Variations
🍍 Tropical Paradise: Add crushed pineapple and a handful of coconut flakes.
🍓 Berry Twist: Mix in sliced strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.
🍫 Chocolate Orange Delight: Stir in a few mini chocolate chips for a fun surprise.
🥥 Coconut Cream Version: Replace sour cream with coconut yogurt and top with toasted coconut.
🍑 Peachy Keen: Substitute peaches or mixed fruit for the mandarin oranges.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Mandarin Orange Delight
💡 Use cold ingredients: Cold milk helps the pudding set properly for a thick, creamy texture.
💡 Drain oranges well: Too much liquid can make the dessert runny.
💡 Chill before serving: The flavors blend beautifully after a few hours in the fridge.
💡 Don’t overmix: Gently fold ingredients to keep the texture light and fluffy.
How to Serve
✨ Serve this dessert in:
- A large glass trifle bowl for a stunning centerpiece
- Individual dessert cups or parfait glasses
- Mini mason jars for picnics or parties
Top each serving with a little whipped cream and a slice of orange for that extra “wow” factor.
Storage Tips
🧊 Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
⚠️ Do not freeze: Freezing changes the texture of the pudding and whipped topping.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 25g
(Values may vary based on optional ingredients and serving size.)
Why This Dessert Is So Special
The Easy Creamy Mandarin Orange Delight combines everything you love about a refreshing, no-fuss dessert — smooth, creamy pudding, tangy-sweet fruit, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that keeps you coming back for more.
It’s light yet satisfying, simple yet stunning. Whether you serve it at Easter, summer cookouts, or holiday dinners, it’s guaranteed to brighten any table and bring smiles all around.
🍊 Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Mandarin Orange Delight is the perfect blend of simplicity and sweetness — a dessert that tastes like sunshine and happiness in every bite. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a creamy, dreamy treat that looks beautiful and tastes even better.
Make it ahead, chill it well, and serve it with love. One spoonful, and you’ll understand why this recipe has been a family favorite for generations. 💛🍊✨
Print
Easy Creamy Mandarin Orange Delight 🍊💛
Ingredients
• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained (reserve juice)
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream (thawed if frozen)
• ½ cup crushed graham crackers (optional, for crust)
• 2 tbsp reserved orange juice (to thin pudding if needed)
Instructions
- Make the base (optional): Press crushed graham crackers into the bottom of a serving dish for a crust. Chill 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk instant pudding mix and cold milk. Beat 2 minutes until thickened. Stir in 2 tbsp orange juice if needed for smoothness.
- Gently fold in half the Cool Whip until light and airy.
- Stir in most of the drained mandarin oranges (reserve some for topping).
- Pour mixture over crust (or into a bowl). Smooth the top.
- Chill at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set.
- Before serving: Top with remaining Cool Whip, sliced mandarins, and a sprinkle of cinnamon or coconut if desired.
✨ Perfect for:
• Holiday buffets
• Summer picnics
• Easy weeknight desserts
💡 Make it tropical: Add shredded coconut or mini marshmallows.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 0 mins , Total Time : 2 hrs 10 mins (includes chilling) , Servings : 6 , Calories : 160 per serving , Net Carbs: 22g , Fats: 7g , Protein: 3g