Creamy Orange Julius

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This refreshing drink is quick to make, kid-friendly, and naturally gluten-free. It’s a perfect treat for warm days, afternoon snacks, or a nostalgic dessert drink. The combination of orange juice, vanilla, and creamy milk makes it taste like an orange creamsicle in drink form—frothy, sweet, and totally crave-worthy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

orange juice (preferably fresh or no-pulp)
milk (dairy or any unsweetened plant-based milk)
vanilla extract
sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
ice cubes
optional: Greek yogurt or banana (for extra creaminess)
optional: whipped cream (for topping)

Directions

1. Add orange juice, milk, vanilla extract, and sugar (or honey) to a blender.
2. Add a generous amount of ice (about 1 to 1½ cups) to make it cold and frothy.
3. Optional: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or half a banana for extra creaminess.
4. Blend on high speed until smooth, frothy, and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or ice as needed.
6. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Top with whipped cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 3 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
No cooking required

Variations

• Use frozen orange juice concentrate for an ultra-cold and strong citrus flavor.
• Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a post-workout smoothie.
• Replace milk with vanilla almond milk for extra sweetness and flavor.
• Add a pinch of orange zest for more citrus punch.
• Make it dairy-free using coconut milk or oat milk.

Storage/Reheating

This drink is best enjoyed fresh.
If storing, keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 day and re-blend before serving, as separation may occur.
Not recommended for freezing or reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can blend it and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Re-blend or stir before serving.

Can I use orange juice concentrate?

Yes, mix it with water as directed, or use it frozen with less ice for a stronger flavor.

What kind of milk works best?

Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but almond, oat, or coconut milk also work well.

How do I make it thicker?

Use less juice and more ice or add banana or yogurt for thickness.

Is this drink healthy?

It can be! Use natural sweeteners like honey and add yogurt or protein for a more nutritious version.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes—use plant-based milk and a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave.

What makes it frothy?

Blending the juice and milk with ice creates a light, foamy texture similar to a milkshake.

Can I turn this into a smoothie?

Yes, just add banana, yogurt, or even some frozen mango for a smoothie-style version.

What can I serve with it?

Serve it with breakfast, brunch, or as a refreshing snack or dessert drink.

Is this like the mall Orange Julius?

Yes! It’s a homemade take on the classic drink—sweet, creamy, and just as frothy.

Conclusion

Creamy Orange Julius is a refreshing, nostalgic treat that comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re craving a cool summer drink or a quick dessert smoothie, this citrusy classic is the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and frosty fun.

Creamy Orange Julius

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Creamy Orange Julius is a refreshing, sweet, and frothy citrus drink that blends orange juice, milk, vanilla, and ice for a nostalgic treat that tastes like an orange creamsicle in a glass.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 2 to 3 servings
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup orange juice (preferably fresh or no-pulp)
• 1 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp sugar or honey (to taste)
• 1 to 1½ cups ice cubes
• Optional: 1/2 banana or 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
• Optional: Whipped cream for topping

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Instructions

1. Add orange juice, milk, vanilla extract, and sugar (or honey) to a blender.
2. Add 1 to 1½ cups of ice cubes for frothiness and chill.
3. Optional: Add banana or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
4. Blend on high speed until smooth and frothy.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or ice if needed.
6. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Top with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

• Use frozen orange juice concentrate for a bolder flavor and colder drink.
• For extra creaminess, try full-fat milk or coconut milk.
• Blend just before serving for the best frothy texture.
• Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a post-workout smoothie twist.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 glass (about 8 oz)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg