Orange Cream Salad
A refreshing orange cream salad with smooth cream cheese and vibrant orange flavors, perfect for summer gatherings and light dessert occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese with sugar until light and smooth.
- Gradually blend in evaporated milk.
- Dissolve orange Jell-O in hot water and cool slightly.
- Gradually add the milk mixture to the Jell-O, stirring well.
- Stir in grated orange rind and orange juice.
- Pour the mixture into a mold.
- Chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beating. If you're short on evaporated milk, you can substitute with equal parts whole milk and heavy cream. To enhance the orange flavor, consider adding a splash of orange extract or using fresh orange zest instead of grated rind. This salad can also be adapted by adding nuts or mini marshmallows for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Cream Salad is a delightful side dish for holiday meals or summertime barbecues. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Meryle's Coconut Pound Cake for dessert. For added presentation, consider serving it in individual cups topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of orange. It also complements savory dishes nicely, balancing flavors on the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be served cold right from the fridge, but if you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Cream Salad contains roughly 148 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (12% 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 use a different flavor of Jell-O?
Yes, you can substitute with other flavors of Jell-O to create different variations. Raspberry or lemon could provide a nice twist, but keep in mind that the overall taste will change. Just follow the same process as outlined in the recipe.
Is there a way to make this salad lighter?
To lighten this Orange Cream Salad, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and replace the sugar with a sugar substitute. Additionally, using low-fat evaporated milk will help reduce calories while maintaining a creamy texture.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, the salad takes about 4 to 6 hours to chill and set properly in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it a day in advance, allowing it to firm up overnight, which enhances the flavors and texture.
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).