Embrace Citrus Bliss: Orange Flop
Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure bursting with the vibrant flavors of citrus with our Orange Flop recipe. This delightful dessert, reminiscent of a creamy orange creamsicle, is sure to brighten your day and tickle your taste buds. Made with a few simple ingredients, including orange jello, cream cheese, and mandarin oranges, Orange Flop is a refreshing and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Join us as we dive into the details of this delightful dessert and discover the joy of citrus-infused bliss.
Ingredients
- 2 cups 7 Up (or other citrus soda)
- 1 6 oz package orange jello
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups chilled 7 Up
- 8 oz tub of Cool Whip, thawed
- 3/4 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of 7 Up to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the orange jello powder. Stir until the jello is completely dissolved.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually pour the hot jello mixture into the cream cheese, beating constantly until well combined and smooth.
- Add 2 cups of chilled 7 Up to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until evenly incorporated.
- Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until fully blended.
- Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a decorative serving bowl, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Once set, slice the Orange Flop into squares or scoop into individual serving bowls.
- Garnish with additional mandarin oranges or a dollop of Cool Whip, if desired, and serve chilled.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For added texture and flavor, stir in a cup of crushed pineapple or chopped nuts into the mixture before refrigerating.
- Experiment with different flavors of jello such as lemon or lime for a citrus twist.
- Substitute the Cool Whip with whipped cream for a homemade touch.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Replace the orange jello with sugar-free orange gelatin mix.
- Use sugar-free lemon-lime soda or sparkling water instead of 7 Up to reduce the carb content.
- Replace the Cool Whip with whipped cream made from heavy cream and a keto-friendly sweetener.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use sugar-free gelatin mix and sugar-free lemon-lime soda as mentioned in the keto version.
- Skip the mandarin oranges or use fresh orange segments for a lower carb option.
- Sweeten the mixture with a low-carb sweetener such as stevia or erythritol to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use diet soda instead of regular soda? A: Yes, you can use diet soda as a lower-calorie alternative. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor of the dessert.
Q: Can I make Orange Flop ahead of time? A: Yes, Orange Flop can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges? A: Absolutely! Fresh oranges can be used for a burst of fresh citrus flavor. Simply peel and segment the oranges before folding them into the mixture.
Q: Can I add other fruits to Orange Flop? A: Yes, feel free to customize Orange Flop by adding your favorite fruits such as strawberries, pineapple, or peaches.
In conclusion, Orange Flop is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of citrus in every creamy bite. With its light and refreshing flavor, it’s the perfect treat for summer gatherings, potlucks, or simply indulging in a moment of citrus bliss. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, Orange Flop is sure to brighten any occasion with its sunny disposition. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the sweetness of Orange Flop – it’s a dessert worth celebrating!