This is one of my favorite jello desserts, and you’re going to love it! Mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and coconut come together in a blend of gelatin, pudding, and cool whip to make one of the most amazing desserts! This simple dessert recipe is perfect for your family and even parties!

Growing up, this mandarin orange jello salad was a staple at all our family gatherings. It was the perfect combination of fruity, creamy, and fluffy – always disappearing in minutes!

Now that I have my own family, I continue to make it for special occasions, and my kids love it just as much as I did. It’s a recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation, bringing joy and deliciousness to each family gathering.

This jello salad brings together the cheerful flavors of mandarin oranges and the sweet fluffiness of marshmallows and coconut. A delightful treat, reminiscent of an orange creamsicle, is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Its vibrant orange hue and refreshing taste make it an ideal choice for both family dinners and festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or a holiday feast, this jello salad will surely be a crowd-pleaser and a favorite among kids and adults alike.

This orange jello salad is simple to make, but its bright colors and delicious flavors make it a standout dessert that will impress your guests. So next time you’re craving a sweet treat or need to bring a dish to a potluck, turn to this easy and delicious recipe. You won’t be disappointed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: This dessert can be whipped up in under 30 minutes with just a few simple steps.
Light and refreshing: Perfect for hot summer days or as a light dessert option after a heavy meal.
Versatile: Feel free to switch up the fruit, add nuts or chocolate chips, and make it your own!

Table of Contents

Ingredients Needed

Orange gelatin: For flavor and the vibrant orange color.
Vanilla pudding mix: Gives the jello salad a creamy richness.
Whipped topping: Adds lightness and fluffiness.
Mandarin oranges: The star of the show.
Marshmallows: I used mini marshmallows, but you can also use larger ones and cut them into smaller pieces.

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

How to Make Orange Jello Salad

Start by setting aside some mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and coconut for topping the dessert at the end.
In a saucepan, boil 1 cup of water.
In a large mixing bowl, add the orange gelatin powder and pour in the boiling water, whisking for about 1 minute until the gelatin is dissolved.
Whisk in ½ cup of cold water, then transfer to the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and whisk in the vanilla pudding powder.
Return to the refrigerator for an additional 15 minutes to allow the mixture to set slightly.
Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and fold in the whipped topping.
Add mandarins, mini marshmallows, and coconut, and stir until combined.
Transfer to a dish or bowl for serving, and top with the mandarins, marshmallows, and coconut that you set aside.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow it to completely set before serving.

Recipe Pro Tips

Make sure to use instant vanilla pudding mix for this recipe. The consistency of the pudding helps create a light and fluffy texture for the jello salad.
For a fun twist, try using different flavors of gelatin, such as lime or strawberry.
For an added burst of flavor and texture, try using crushed pineapple or chopped nuts as mix-ins.
Don’t skip chilling the mixture before adding in the whipped topping. This ensures that the jello has been partially set and will create a creamy and fluffy texture.
Make this dessert ahead of time by preparing it the night before and storing it in the refrigerator overnight.
If you are making this for a party or gathering, consider doubling the recipe, as it tends to disappear quickly!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh mandarin oranges in this recipe. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry before adding them to the jello.

Can I omit the coconut flakes?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to leave it out or replace it with another mix-in of your choice.

What to Serve with Mandarin Orange Jello Salad

This jello salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile dessert option. We like to serve it with BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or a summer salad for a complete meal. Or, you can simply enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing snack.

Storage

Any leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator in a covered container. This orange jello salad will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings. Just be sure to keep it cold until ready to serve.

Substitutions & Variations

Swap out the vanilla pudding mix for cheesecake or white chocolate flavor for a different twist on this classic recipe.
Try using different types of fruit, such as peaches, pineapple, or mixed berries instead of mandarin oranges.
For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy whipped topping and vanilla pudding mix. You can also substitute almond milk for the water in the recipe.
Use sugar-free gelatin and pudding mix instead of the regular versions for a lower-sugar option.

More No-Bake Dessert Recipes You’ll Love

Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Berry (Red, White and Blue) Cheesecake Salad

Cool Whip Fruit Dip

Easy Fresh Fruit Dessert Pinwheels

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a star ★★★★★ rating and a comment below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back and browse all of my easy recipes!

5 from 1 vote

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad

This easy Mandarin Orange Jello Salad recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a light and refreshing dessert, that comes together in under 30 minutes and is sure to be a hit!

Servings: Servings

Calories: 215kcal

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Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 5

Additional Time: 2 30

Total Time: 2 50

Ingredients

Instructions

Set aside some of the mandarins, marshmallows, and coconut for topping the dessert at the end.
Boil 1 cup of water.
Add orange gelatin powder to a large mixing bowl, then pour in the boiling water and whisk for about 1 minute until the gelatin is dissolved. Whisk in ½ cup of cold water, then transfer to the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Remove the bowl of gelatin from the refrigerator, and whisk in the vanilla pudding powder.
Return to the refrigerator for an additional 15 minutes to allow the mixture to set slightly.
Remove the bowl of gelatin from the refrigerator, and fold in the whipped topping.
Add mandarins, mini marshmallows, and coconut, and stir until combined.
Transfer to a dish or bowl for serving, and top with the mandarins, marshmallows, and coconut that you set aside.
Cover the dish, and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow it to completely set before serving.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, is intended to serve as an estimate only, and is provided for informational purposes. The accuracy of nutritional information is not guaranteed.

Course: Desserts & Sweet Treats

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