Ingredients:

  • 1 package (3 oz) Orange Gelatin powder
  • 1 container (16 oz) Small curd cottage cheese
  • 1 tub (8 oz) Whipped topping, thawed
  • 2 cans (11 oz each) Mandarin oranges, drained for 10 minutes
  • 1 can (20 oz) Crushed pineapple, drained and squeezed of excess juice
  • 2 cups Miniature marshmallows

Instructions:

  1. Place the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple into a fine-mesh strainer. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes, then gently press the pineapple with a spoon to remove every drop of extra juice to prevent separation.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the dry orange gelatin powder and the cottage cheese. Mix until the powder is fully dissolved and the mixture turns a uniform, vibrant orange.
  3. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a silicone spatula. Use a 'cut and fold' motion to maintain aeration and keep the mixture fluffy.
  4. Add the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows. Fold gently until just combined, ensuring the fruit remains intact.
  5. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the marshmallows to soften and the gelatin to set the structure.