Can I use fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges?

Yes, you can use fresh mandarin oranges, but it will increase prep time. Be sure to peel, segment, and remove all seeds and membranes for the best texture. Canned mandarin oranges are convenient, evenly sweet, and work perfectly in this salad.

How far in advance can I make Mandarin Orange Jello Salad?

This salad is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen as it chills, and the texture becomes firmer. Just give it a gentle stir before serving if any separation occurs.

Can I freeze this Jello salad?

Freezing is not recommended. The whipped topping and gelatin can separate and become watery after thawing, which affects the salad's fluffy texture. It’s best served fresh or chilled for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Mandarin Orange Jello Salad – Best 5-Minute Fluff Recipe

Name: Mandarin Orange Jello Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed; 1 (3 oz) box Orange Jello; 2 (11 oz) cans Mandarin Oranges, drained; 2 (8 oz) cans Crushed Pineapple, drained; 1½ cups Mini Marshmallows

Description

This Mandarin Orange Jello Salad is a light, creamy, and fruity dessert or side dish that comes together in just 5 minutes. Made without cottage cheese, it combines orange jello, Cool Whip, crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows for a sweet creamsicle flavor perfect for potlucks, holidays, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
1 (3 oz) box Orange Jello
2 (11 oz) cans Mandarin Oranges, drained
2 (8 oz) cans Crushed Pineapple, drained
1½ cups Mini Marshmallows

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Scoop the Cool Whip into a large mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the orange jello powder directly on top of the Cool Whip.
Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the jello into the Cool Whip until mostly combined (some graininess may remain).
Drain the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple thoroughly to remove all liquid.
Add the drained fruit to the bowl and gently fold into the jello mixture.
Add the mini marshmallows and fold until evenly distributed.
Transfer the salad to an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours) before serving for best texture.

Notes

Drain canned fruit thoroughly to prevent watery salad.
Folding instead of stirring preserves the fluffiness of the Cool Whip.
For a firmer texture, chill for several hours before serving.
Optional add-ins: shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or maraschino cherries.
Can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 0.5 cup
Calories: 113 kcal
Sugar: 19 g
Sodium: 77 mg
Fat: 1 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 5 mg