This Creamsicle Orange Fluff is a dreamy, no-bake dessert that tastes just like a classic orange creamsicle! It’s creamy, fluffy, and packed with bright citrus flavor from orange gelatin and mandarin oranges—all folded into a sweet whipped base. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, holiday potluck, or just a weeknight treat, this fluff is pure nostalgia in every spoonful.

The first time I made Creamsicle Orange Fluff, it was on a warm spring day when I wanted something cool and light for dessert. My husband took a bite and said, “This tastes just like those creamsicle pops I had as a kid.” My daughter licked the spoon and said it was like eating “a fluffy orange cloud.” It’s since become one of our favorite no-bake desserts—and one we always get asked to bring to family get-togethers!

Why You’ll Love Creamsicle Orange Fluff

No-Bake & Super Easy – comes together in minutes
Light, Fluffy Texture that’s perfect for warm days
Bright Citrus Flavor with a creamy vanilla finish
Perfect for Parties, Holidays, and Potlucks

Ingredients Notes For Creamsicle Orange Fluff

Orange Gelatin (Jell-O): The citrusy base flavor
Boiling Water: Dissolves the gelatin for a smooth texture
Cold Water or Ice Cubes: Helps cool the gelatin quickly
Whipped Topping (Cool Whip): For that light, fluffy base
Cottage Cheese or Cream Cheese (Optional): For a creamy twist
Mandarin Oranges: Drained well, adds fruitiness and texture
Mini Marshmallows: For extra sweetness and soft bite
Vanilla Extract: Optional but adds that creamsicle essence

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away! Plus you'll get new recipes from me every week. Yes please!

Recipe Steps

1. Dissolve Gelatin: In a large bowl, whisk orange gelatin into 1 cup boiling water until completely dissolved.

2. Cool it Down: Stir in ½ cup cold water or ice cubes and mix until it begins to slightly thicken (about 5 minutes).

3. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in Cool Whip until smooth and creamy.

4. Add Mix-Ins: Stir in mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and cottage cheese or cream cheese (if using).

5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set and fluffy.

6. Serve & Enjoy: Scoop into bowls and top with extra mandarin slices or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in a covered container for up to 3–4 days
Freezer: Not recommended—texture may become watery once thawed

Variations & Substitutions

Use Pineapple: Swap or add crushed pineapple for a tropical twist
Make It Lighter: Use light whipped topping and sugar-free gelatin
Add Yogurt: Stir in vanilla Greek yogurt for a protein boost

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh oranges? Fresh oranges work, but canned mandarin oranges have the best soft texture for this dish.

Is it super sweet? It’s lightly sweet and refreshing—you can reduce marshmallows for less sweetness.

Can I make it ahead? Yes! It’s even better after chilling overnight.

This Creamsicle Orange Fluff is cool, creamy, and bursting with citrus sunshine—a nostalgic dessert that’s always a hit with kids and adults alike!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

Creamsicle Orange Fluff

No ratings yet

Pin This Recipe For Later! Print

Course: Dessert, Side Dish

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 2 10

Servings: 10

Ingredients

▢ 1 box 3 oz orange Jell-O
▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs boiling water
▢ ½ cup 0.25 lbs cold water
▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs crushed pineapple (drained)
▢ 1 can 15 oz / 0.9 lbs mandarin oranges (drained)
▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs mini marshmallows
▢ 1 container 8 oz / 0.5 lbs whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs cottage cheese (optional for added creaminess)

Instructions

Dissolve the Gelatin:
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve orange Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
Stir in ½ cup cold water and mix well.
Chill in the fridge for about 20–30 minutes, until slightly thickened but not fully set.
Mix in Ingredients:
Fold in the cottage cheese (if using), crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, and mini marshmallows.
Add the Whipped Topping:
Gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is evenly combined and fluffy.
Chill & Serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving so it can set properly.
Garnish with extra mandarin slices or a sprinkle of orange zest if desired.