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Mandarin Orange Fluff Recipe

4.5 from 120 reviews

Mandarin Orange Fluff is a light and refreshing dessert that combines the zesty sweetness of orange jello and mandarin oranges with creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy cool whip, and soft mini marshmallows. This no-bake treat is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a chilled snack on warm days.

Ingredients

Scale

Gelatin and Pudding Base

  • 3 oz box orange jello mix
  • 1 cup (236ml) boiling water
  • 1/2 cup (118ml) cold water
  • 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding mix

Mix-ins

  • 8 oz cool whip
  • 2 cups (86g) mini marshmallows
  • Two 15 oz cans mandarin oranges, drained very well
  • 20 oz can crushed pineapple, drained very well

Instructions

  1. Dissolve Jello: In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange jello mix and boiling water. Whisk until the jello is completely dissolved. Pour in the cold water and whisk again to combine. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to let it start setting.
  2. Add Pudding Mix: Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the pudding. Return the bowl to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to thicken.
  3. Fold in Cool Whip: Take the bowl out again and gently fold in the cool whip until evenly combined, creating a fluffy base.
  4. Add Fruit and Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows, well-drained mandarin oranges, and well-drained crushed pineapple to the mixture. Fold gently to combine all ingredients without breaking them down.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the fluff mixture for at least 2 hours. This chilling period allows the fluff to thicken and the marshmallows to soften, enhancing the texture and flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the canned fruits are drained very well to avoid excess liquid diluting the fluff.
  • For extra texture, you can add chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired.
  • This recipe can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator to deepen flavors.
  • Use fresh whipped cream instead of cool whip for a homemade version.
  • Keep the fluff covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Keywords: Mandarin Orange Fluff, Jello dessert, no-bake dessert, fruit fluff salad, easy summer dessert