This Orange Push Pop Pudding is a light, creamy, no-bake dessert that delivers pure nostalgia in every spoonful. Inspired by classic orange-and-vanilla frozen treats, this pudding combines bright citrus flavor with smooth vanilla creaminess. It’s cool, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or when you need a quick make-ahead dessert with big flavor and minimal effort.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Anyone who loves retro desserts or nostalgic flavors
- Busy home cooks looking for a no-bake dessert
- Summer parties, BBQs, and potlucks
- Families and kids (it’s always a hit!)
- Make-ahead dessert planners
Why It’s Great
- No oven required
- Ready with simple pantry ingredients
- Creamy, light, and refreshing
- Perfect balance of citrus and vanilla
- Easy to customize or serve in cups, jars, or push pops
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orange gelatin | 1 (3 oz) box |
| Boiling water | 1 cup |
| Cold water | ½ cup |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 1 (3.4 oz) box |
| Fresh orange zest | 2 teaspoons |
| Frozen whipped topping, thawed | 1 (8 oz) container |
| Whipped cream | For garnish |
| Orange slices | For garnish |
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
- Refrigerator
- Serving bowls, cups, or push-pop containers
How to Make Orange Push Pop Pudding
- Dissolve the Gelatin
In a large bowl, whisk the orange gelatin with boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in the cold water until combined. - Cool Slightly
Refrigerate for about 10–12 minutes, just until the mixture is cool but not set. - Add the Pudding Mix
Whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and free of lumps. - Chill Again
Return to the refrigerator for 15 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly. - Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping and fresh orange zest until light and fluffy. - Chill to Set
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best texture. - Serve
Spoon into bowls or cups and garnish with whipped cream and orange slices before serving.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may separate
- Make-Ahead: Perfect to prepare a day in advance
FAQ
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of gelatin?
No—gelatin is essential for structure and that classic push-pop flavor.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen topping?
Yes! Use about 2½ cups of softly whipped cream.
Can I make this in push-pop molds or jars?
Absolutely—this dessert works great in individual containers.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes, use sugar-free gelatin and pudding mixes.
Conclusion
This Orange Push Pop Pudding is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes like sunshine. With its creamy texture, bright citrus flavor, and effortless preparation, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to whenever you need a refreshing, no-fuss sweet treat. Perfect for summer—or anytime you need a little nostalgia in a bowl.
