Are you craving a refreshing and delightful dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This creamy orange dessert is the perfect ending to any meal, boasting a vibrant citrus flavor and a luxuriously smooth texture. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want to enjoy something delicious and homemade. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey. Let's dive into this dreamy creation!
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed is best!
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Orange slices or candied orange peel for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Before you begin, ensure your whipped topping is completely thawed. This will allow for smooth and easy mixing. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Mixing the Magic:
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In a large bowl, gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the sweetened condensed milk. Be careful not to overmix; you want to retain some of the airiness of the whipped topping.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. This creates a fragrant and flavorful orange base.
Combining Flavors:
- Gradually add the orange juice mixture to the whipped topping and condensed milk mixture, gently folding until everything is just combined. Again, avoid overmixing.
Chill and Serve:
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Pour the orange cream mixture into individual serving glasses or a larger bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill thoroughly. This step is crucial for the best taste and texture.
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Once chilled, garnish with fresh orange slices or candied orange peel for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips and Variations:
- For a tangier flavor: Use a combination of orange juice and lemon juice.
- Add a bit of booze: A splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur elevates this dessert to a sophisticated level. (Adjust to taste, of course!)
- Make it a parfait: Layer the orange cream with crushed graham crackers or crumbled shortbread cookies in individual glasses for a fun textural contrast.
- Use different citrus: Experiment with other citrus fruits like grapefruit or mandarin oranges for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
Note: This is an estimate and should not be considered a substitute for professional nutritional advice.
This easy orange cream dessert is a simple yet impressive recipe perfect for any occasion. Its bright citrus notes and creamy texture make it a truly delightful treat. Enjoy this delicious dish as a quick dinner idea or a special occasion dessert – it's sure to be a hit!