Orange Fluff Jello Salad

A light, creamy, citrusy delight perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or family dinners.

Scale

Optional garnish: reserved mandarin oranges, extra mini marshmallows, or fresh orange zest

1. Dissolve the Jello

In a large bowl, pour the orange Jello powder. Slowly add 1 cup boiling water while whisking continuously until fully dissolved.

2. Add Cold Water & Cool

Stir in ½ cup cold water. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature (about 15–20 minutes) before adding whipped topping.

Tip: Don’t skip this step—warm Jello can melt your whipped topping.

3. Fold in Whipped Topping

Add the entire container of thawed whipped topping to the cooled Jello. Gently fold with a spatula until fully combined and light orange in color.

4. Add Mix-Ins

Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, cottage cheese, mini marshmallows, and mandarin oranges. Be careful not to break up the oranges.

Tip: Reserve a few mandarins and marshmallows for garnish on top.

5. Chill

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the salad set and flavors meld.

6. Serve

Scoop into a clear glass bowl or trifle dish for a bright, inviting presentation. Garnish as desired.

Lump-free Jello: Whisk Jello well while dissolving in boiling water.
Cottage cheese substitute: Use vanilla or orange yogurt if desired.
Flavor twists:
- Dreamsicle: Replace cottage cheese with vanilla pudding mix.
- Tropical: Use pineapple Jello and add toasted coconut.
- Berry: Use strawberry Jello and fresh strawberries.
Make ahead: Prepare the night before for best flavor and texture.