Molded Orange Cream Salad
A light and creamy orange-flavored molded salad with citrus notes, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, combining orange juice, gelatin, and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Defrost the frozen orange juice concentrate.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the orange flavored gelatin in boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Add lemon juice and the orange concentrate, then stir quickly to combine.
- Pour half of the gelatin mixture into a 5 or 6-cup mold and chill if necessary until it is heavy and syrupy.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the remaining gelatin mixture.
- Pour the combined mixture into the mold over the set gelatin layer.
- Chill until firm before unmolding.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the gelatin. You can substitute fresh orange juice for the frozen concentrate if desired, adjusting the sweetness accordingly. If you want to lower the calorie count, consider using light cream cheese and whipped topping. This dish can also be made ahead of time for easy entertaining alongside Easy Hors D' Oeuvres Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Molded Orange Cream Salad makes a delightful addition to brunch or as a light dessert. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad or serve alongside Alice's Deviled Eggs for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh mint or orange zest, enhancing its vibrant color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as the texture may change. To serve leftovers, simply unmold and cut into slices. It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if refrigerated for a while, allow it to sit out for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Orange Cream Salad contains roughly 224 calories, with 5g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is fully set in the mold before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal option for parties or gatherings.
What if I don't have a mold?
If you don't have a traditional mold, you can use a large bowl or individual serving cups. Just ensure they are lightly greased to help with unmolding. The presentation may differ slightly, but the taste will remain delicious.
How can I make this recipe more colorful?
To add more color, consider folding in diced fruits like mandarin oranges or strawberries into the whipped cream mixture before pouring it into the mold. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds extra flavor and texture to the salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).