Triple Orange Delight
A vibrant, citrus-flavored layered dessert featuring angel food cake, mandarin oranges, and orange gelatin, perfect for a refreshing dessert that delights citrus lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain mandarin oranges and save the juice.
- Bring 1 cup of mandarin orange juice to a boil.
- Stir in the orange-flavored gelatin until dissolved.
- Pour the gelatin mixture into a large bowl and add the orange sherbet.
- Stir until the sherbet is melted and well combined.
- Fold in Cool Whip until smooth.
- Tear half of the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces and place in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Cut half of the mandarin oranges over the cake in the pan.
- Pour half of the gelatin mixture over the cake and oranges in the pan.
- Repeat the layers with remaining cake, oranges, and gelatin mixture.
- Garnish with additional Cool Whip and mandarin oranges before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using sugar-free Jell-O and low-fat Cool Whip. If you can't find orange sherbet, an orange sorbet or even a vanilla ice cream can be a tasty substitute. For added texture, try folding in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut. Remember to check the expiration dates on your gelatin and Cool Whip for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful dessert chilled, garnished with extra Cool Whip and mandarin oranges for a visually appealing presentation. It pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light salad like Chicken Salad With Potato Sticks for a balanced summer menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Triple Orange Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to save it, make sure to keep it covered to prevent drying out. Refrain from freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Triple Orange Delight contains roughly 72 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% 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 fresh oranges instead of canned mandarins?
Yes, you can use fresh oranges! Just make sure to segment them and remove any seeds. However, canned mandarin oranges are convenient and provide a sweet, juicy flavor that complements the dish well.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on the angel food cake and gelatin to ensure they are certified gluten-free. You can also make homemade angel food cake using gluten-free flour.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Triple Orange Delight a day ahead of time. Just layer everything as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when served.
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).