Orange Fluff Salad

Orange Fluff Salad is a light, creamy Southern favorite that’s been showing up at family gatherings and potlucks for generations. Made with whipped topping, juicy mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and a touch of instant vanilla pudding, it’s a simple, sweet treat with just the right hint of citrus. Whether it’s served as a side dish or a dessert, this nostalgic dish brings a little brightness to the table every time.

Is Orange Fluff a Salad or a Dessert?

In the South, we sometimes refer to sweet fluffs and Jell-O treats as “salads,” and yes, we know that confuses folks who expect something green and leafy. But down here, a “salad” doesn’t always mean lettuce. It might mean a chilled fruit salad or a delicious jello salad made in a pretty mold. It’s more about tradition and comfort than nutrition.

These types of dishes started showing up at church suppers, holiday tables, and family reunions generations ago, when quick, no-bake recipes became popular, and they’ve stuck around because, well, they’re just plain good. Whether it’s Watergate salad (pistachio fluff), a fruity ambrosia, or strawberry fluff, these “salads” have earned their place next to the casseroles and fried chicken, even if they taste more like a dessert salad than anything else. It’s all part of the charm, and a little Southern nod to the idea that not all salads have to be green.

Ingredients to Make Orange Fluff Salad Recipe

Checkout this quick list of ingredients you’ll need to make this easy Orange Fluff Jello Salad: (Scroll down for the full printable recipe card.)

Orange Gelatin Mix – Orange instant jello powder, plus boiling water to dissolve.
Mandarin Oranges – Canned mandarin oranges well drained, plus reserve 1/2 cup of the juice for the jello.
Pineapple – Crushed pineapple expands the flavor profile.
Pudding Mix – Instant vanilla pudding mix stabilizes the fluffy mixture.
Whipped Cream – Cool whip gives the fluff a creamy texture.
Marshmallows – Mini marshmallows add a pillowy soft texture that complements the creamy filling.

How to Make Orange Fluff Salad Recipe

Make the Orange Jello – Whisk together boiling water and orange-flavored gelatin until fully dissolved.
Mandarin Oranges – Reserve 1/2 cup of juice from the mandarin oranges when you drain them. Add this to the jello mixture and whisk to cool slightly. Pop it into the fridge for 5 minutes.
Add the Instant Pudding – Whisk the vanilla pudding into the gelatin mixture until combined; return bowl to refrigerator and chill, until slightly thickened, about 5-10 minutes.
Add the Cool Whip – Gently fold in whipped topping just until combined.
Fruit and Marshmallows – Add mandarin oranges, pineapple and marshmallows to the whipped cream mixture.
Refrigerate – Cover and chill until serving.

Kitchen Equipment to Make Mandarin Orange Salad

Large bowl that’s heat proof.
Large whisk or hand mixer for combining the pudding mix with the orange gelatin mixture.
Measuring cups.
Large rubber spatula for folding in the whipped topping.
Colander for draining the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple.

Recipe Variations, Tips and Substitutions

Nuts – You can add 1/2 cup of pecans, walnuts or pistachios for a bit of crunch.
Coconut – You could add shredded flaked coconut for a tropical twist.
Whipped Cream – You can use fresh whipped cream in place of cool whip. You’ll need around 2 cups, a little more than 2 cups will work in this instance, as it may deflate more than cool whip.
Juice – If you forget to reserve the juice from the mandarin oranges, don’t sweat it. You can use 1/2 cup cold water instead.
Drain the Fruit Well – It’s important to drain the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple very well so the fluff doesn’t break down in the fridge. If it separates at all, just give it a gentle stir prior to serving.
Cottage Cheese – Even though this salad is super simple, there are several variations. For example, some recipes call for cottage cheese as an ingredient. You can add one 8 ounce container of cottage cheese for extra texture.
Pineapple – You can omit the pineapple for an even stronger citrus flavor, similar to an orange creamsicle fluff.
Lower Sugar – You can adapt this recipe using sugar free jello, sugar free pudding mix and zero sugar whipped topping. You will want to omit the marshmallows and choose fruit packed in juice instead of syrup. It won’t be completely sugar free, but it’s still a nice treat for someone watching their sugar intake.
Optional Garnishes – You might like to garnish the top with maraschino cherries, whipped cream, additional miniature marshmallows or a sprinkle of nuts.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers – Store leftover Orange Fluff Salad in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap chilled in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer – I don’t recommend freezing orange jello fluff it doesn’t hold up to the thawing process.

More Easy Salad Recipes to Make

Pear Salad is another oldie that doesn’t require any cooking at all.
Waldorf Chicken Salad can be enjoyed as a side dish or an entree.
5 Bean Salad is perfect for picnics and backyard barbecues.
Caprese Salad is fresh and tasty.
Grape Salad is a potluck favorite that can double as a side dish or a dessert.
Cucumber Onion Salad comes together in minutes.
Old fashioned Bologna Salad for light meals and snacking.
Sweet and salty Watermelon Salad.
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad from The Pioneer Woman.

Thanks for visiting come back soon!

Disclosure ~ If a purchase is made using one of the affiliate links on this website we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Helpful Kitchen Items: