Can I make this salad the day before?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead gives the flavors even more time to blend, and it stays wonderfully fluffy. Just store tightly covered in the fridge.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

If you prefer not to use Cool Whip, you can use homemade whipped cream (whip chilled heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar), but keep in mind you’ll lose a little stability. Whipped topping keeps the salad fluffy for longer.

Will the Jello powder dissolve without making the Jello?

Yes! Mixing the dry Jello right in with the creamy ingredients helps it dissolve perfectly, coloring and flavoring the salad without setting up like gelatin.

Do I have to use cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese is key for the classic creamy texture, but if you really don’t like it, try small curd ricotta or even a thick Greek yogurt. The result will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Creamy Orange Fruit Salad Recipe

Name: Creamy Orange Fruit Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 20 oz. crushed pineapple, drained very well (1 can); 30 oz. mandarin oranges, drained well (2 cans); 16 oz. cottage cheese; 3 oz. orange jello mix (unprepared); 8 oz. Cool Whip; 1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes; Maraschino cherries, for garnish

Bright, refreshing, and swoon-worthy—this Creamy Orange Fruit Salad is about to become your new go-to treat! Every spoonful is packed with juicy fruit, fluffy cloud-like cream, and a zesty citrusy kick that will make you crave more. The best part? There’s no stove or complicated steps. It truly comes together in just about 15 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Set it out at a party or enjoy as a sweet finish to a quick meal; it fits every moment!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Easy: No cooking, no blending, no fussing over stovetops. Just mix, chill, and serve.
Super Fast: Whip it up in literally fifteen minutes—even less if you drain your fruit ahead of time.
So Refreshing: The lively flavor of oranges, the sweet bite of pineapple, and the creamy base make every bite sing.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It only gets better after chilling, making your life even easier.
Family & Crowd Favorite: Kids and adults alike love it. Expect lots of requests for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this salad an all-star—and why each ingredient really matters:

Crushed Pineapple: Adds tangy-sweet juiciness and texture. Make sure it’s drained as much as possible to keep your salad from turning watery—this is not negotiable!
Mandarin Oranges: Offer gentle citrus sweetness; the ultimate burst-in-your-mouth fruit. Again, drain well for best consistency.
Orange Jello Powder: Just the powder! This is the magic for coloring and that unmistakable orange flavor, with zero extra steps.
Cottage Cheese: Contributes a rich, creamy texture plus a faint savory note that balances the sweetness.
Sweetened Coconut Flakes: For a subtle chew and tropical flavor. If you’re not a coconut fan, don’t worry—see variations below.
Cool Whip: Makes everything delightfully airy and smooth. It’s non-negotiable for that ultra-light fluffiness.
Maraschino Cherries: The perfect classic garnish. Adds a pop of color and a sweet finish.

Tip: If you usually skip cherries—don’t! That eye-catching touch is so inviting and cheerful.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

There are so many ways to make this fruit salad your own! Here are some ideas if you like to switch it up:

Skip the Coconut: Not a fan? Just leave it out or swap for chopped pecans or mini marshmallows.
Use Greek Yogurt: Want a tangier, protein-packed version? Replace part of the Cool Whip or cottage cheese with plain Greek yogurt.
Different Fruit: Try adding sliced strawberries, halved grapes, or fresh berries for extra color and flavor.
Other Gelatin Flavors: Lemon or pineapple Jello work deliciously for a different citrus twist; lime is fun for a summer party.
Make it Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free whipped topping and plant-based yogurt in place of cottage cheese.

Don’t be shy about customizing—this is a no-fail recipe!

How to Make Creamy Orange Fruit Salad

Step 1: Drain the Fruit Thoroughly

Pour the crushed pineapple into a strainer and press firmly with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Transfer to paper towels and pat dry. Do the same for the mandarin oranges, but just let them gently drain—no pressing needed—then blot with a paper towel.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the orange Jello powder (dry—don’t prepare it!), cottage cheese, and sweetened coconut flakes until everything is beautifully combined and takes on a lovely orange hue.

Step 3: Fold in the Fruit

Add the well-drained pineapple and oranges to the creamy base. Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the fruit in to keep it from breaking apart or getting mushy.

Step 4: Bring the Fluff

Add Cool Whip and fold it in carefully. You want the salad to be airy and luscious, so don’t over-mix—just until it’s smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Serve and Chill

Spoon the mixture into a large serving bowl or cute individual glasses. Top with maraschino cherries for that irresistible, festive look. Chill until it’s time to serve—the longer the better for flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Drain, Drain, Drain! Soggy fruit will ruin the salad’s texture and turn it watery. Press the pineapple well and lightly blot the oranges.
Go Gentle with the Fruit: To keep the oranges intact and prevent them from breaking up, fold them in carefully.
Served Cold: This salad tastes best well-chilled. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving if you can wait.
Make It Ahead: It holds up beautifully, and the flavors blend the longer it sits—great for prep the day before.

How to Serve

This Creamy Orange Fruit Salad is a showstopper on its own, but here’s how to make it shine even brighter:

As a Refreshing Dessert

Serve in individual glass dishes and garnish each with a cherry on top. A sprinkle of extra coconut or a few orange zest curls add flair.

At Brunch or Potlucks

Set out in a big bowl as part of a breakfast or brunch spread. Pairs beautifully with savory egg dishes, muffins, or crisp bacon.

Light Side Dish

Works great alongside grilled chicken, baked ham, or even summer barbecues for a zesty-sweet contrast.

For Kids

Spoon into small colorful cups and let kids add their own cherries or sprinkles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover any leftovers and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The salad stays fluffy and fresh!

Freezing

This is not a freezer-friendly recipe. Freezing will ruin the creamy texture and make it watery as it thaws. Best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

No reheating here—this one is served blissfully cold straight from the fridge. If it separates a little, just give it a gentle stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad the day before?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead gives the flavors even more time to blend, and it stays wonderfully fluffy. Just store tightly covered in the fridge.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

If you prefer not to use Cool Whip, you can use homemade whipped cream (whip chilled heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar), but keep in mind you’ll lose a little stability. Whipped topping keeps the salad fluffy for longer.
Will the Jello powder dissolve without making the Jello?

Yes! Mixing the dry Jello right in with the creamy ingredients helps it dissolve perfectly, coloring and flavoring the salad without setting up like gelatin.
Do I have to use cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese is key for the classic creamy texture, but if you really don’t like it, try small curd ricotta or even a thick Greek yogurt. The result will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

If ever there was a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers big on flavor and fun, this Creamy Orange Fruit Salad is it! It’s versatile, reliably delicious, and takes almost no time—which makes it a lifesaver for busy nights and spontaneous get-togethers. Give it a try, play around with your favorite flavors, and watch as it quickly disappears. Here’s to enjoying every creamy, citrusy bite!