Orange Fluff Salad Recipe (a Simple Classic)

Last updated on May 16th, 2025 at 06:45 pm

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing treat that’s full of fruity goodness, you’ll love this orange fluff salad. It’s a simple-to-make and delicious combination of juicy mandarin oranges, sweet whipped cream, and fluffy marshmallows you can whip up in no time. You might even have most of the ingredients on hand!

What is orange fluff?

Orange fluff is a JELLO-O salad that’s been around since the 1950s. There are a few different variations, but this one is my favorite.

When I think of this salad, I remember it being served at summer barbeques, church gatherings, and potlucks during my childhood. 

Maybe it’s stayed so popular because everyone seems to love it, and it makes the perfect dish for sharing–and it doesn’t hurt that it only takes about five minutes to make

What to know before making this orange fluff recipe

This recipe tastes best after being stored in the fridge for an hour or two. That gives it time for all the flavors to meld together.

The coconut in this orange fluff salad is optional. People seem to have strong feelings about coconut, so if you’re not a fan, just leave it out.  

How far in advance can you make this recipe?

We suggest making this orange fluff no more than a few hours in advance. The mandarin oranges tend to release moisture, and your salad may get a little soggy if left too long.

If you do need to make it further ahead of time or have leftovers, just give it a stir, and it will still taste fine.

Now, let’s get into it!

Orange Fluff Salad Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this orange fluff salad.  

The first step is to mix the whipped cream and JELL-O together.

After the JELL-O powder and whipped cream are mixed together, add the rest of ingredients, and gently fold them in until everything’s fully combined.

That’s all there is to it! Serve immediately or refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Recipe variations

• You can swap out the cottage cheese for vanilla instant pudding, but this might make your orange fluff thinner and much sweeter. Some prefer it this way, so it’s up to your personal taste. 
• Adding sliced bananas is definitely a tasty idea, but you’ll want to add them right before serving, so they don’t brown.
• You can also add pineapple chunks for a refreshing variation.
• You might want to swap out the orange JELL-O for another flavor to switch things up, or even match a color theme. If you do this, you’ll also want to swap out the oranges for fruit that pairs well with the JELL-O flavor you choose.
• Other popular add-ins are sour cream, yogurt, fruit cocktail, chopped pecans, etc.
• There are lots of variations on this salad since it’s been around for so many years. Feel free to experiment.

How to serve orange fluff salad 

This scrumptious orange salad can be served as a side, and is ideal for casual get-togethers or potlucks. It’s also a great dessert or light snack.

Give this recipe a try, and let us know how your family likes it!  

Print Pin

5 from 2 votes

Orange Fluff Salad

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 Tub Cool Whip 8 ounces
• 1 Box Orange Gelatin Powder 3 ounces
• 1 Can Mandarin Oranges drained (14 ounces)
• 1 ½ Cups Mini Marshmallows
• 1 Cup Cottage Cheese
• 1 Cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut optional

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Combine the whipped cream and orange jello powder in a large mixing bowl, and mix until no white streaks remain.
• Add the remaining ingredients, and fold them in until fully combined.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate, covered, until ready to serve.

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