Orange Fluff Salad

Orange Fluff Salad is a retro, no-bake dessert “salad” that’s light, creamy, and citrusy-sweet with pops of fruit and marshmallow. It’s built on orange gelatin and whipped topping, creating a mousse-like texture that’s ideal for potlucks, holidays, and make-ahead entertaining.

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Overview

Format: Chilled dessert salad
Texture: Fluffy, creamy, lightly airy
Time: 10 minutes prep + 1 hour chill
Serves: 8–10

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Ingredients

• 1 (3 oz) box orange gelatin (e.g., orange flavor)
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix (dry, do not prepare separately)
• 1 (14 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 2 cups mini marshmallows

Optional additions:

• ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• Maraschino cherries (drained and halved)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Dissolve the Gelatin

In a large bowl:

• Pour boiling water over gelatin powder.
• Whisk until fully dissolved (about 1–2 minutes).

Stir in cold water.

Allow mixture to cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. It should not begin setting.

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2. Add Pudding Mix

Whisk dry instant pudding mix directly into the cooled gelatin mixture.

The pudding stabilizes and thickens the base.

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3. Fold in Whipped Topping

Gently fold in thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated and smooth.

Do not overmix—maintain airiness.

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4. Add Fruit & Marshmallows

Fold in:

• Drained mandarin oranges
• Drained crushed pineapple
• Mini marshmallows

If using optional add-ins, incorporate now.

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5. Chill

Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour, or until set and fluffy.

Stir gently before serving if needed.

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Texture & Flavor Profile

• Creamy and mousse-like
• Sweet citrus flavor
• Soft marshmallow chew
• Juicy fruit contrast
• Light but indulgent

The pineapple adds acidity that balances sweetness.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Gelatin provides structure
• Instant pudding enhances thickness and creaminess
• Whipped topping introduces aeration
• Thoroughly drained fruit prevents excess liquid

The formula prevents separation and maintains scoopable texture.

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Pro Tips

1. Drain Fruit Extremely Well

Excess juice thins the mixture.

2. Let Gelatin Cool Slightly

Hot gelatin will deflate whipped topping.

3. Fold, Don’t Stir

Preserve volume.

4. Chill Before Serving

Texture improves as it sets.

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Variations

Pineapple-Only Version

Skip mandarin oranges and double pineapple.

Cottage Cheese Addition

Add 1 cup small-curd cottage cheese for protein and tang.

Lighter Version

Use sugar-free gelatin and light whipped topping.

Tropical Twist

Add diced mango and toasted coconut.

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Make-Ahead & Storage

• Make up to 24 hours in advance.
• Store refrigerated up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze (texture breaks down).

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180–220
• Fat: 6–8g
• Carbohydrates: 35–40g
• Protein: 1–2g

Varies based on add-ins and brand selection.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding whipped topping to hot gelatin
• Not draining fruit thoroughly
• Using cook-and-serve pudding instead of instant
• Skipping chill time

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Final Notes

Orange Fluff Salad is a dependable, crowd-friendly dessert that delivers bright citrus flavor in a soft, airy texture. It’s low-effort, visually vibrant, and ideal for events where make-ahead convenience matters.

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