Homemade Orange Julius – A Creamy, Dreamy Classic Citrus Drink 🍊🍦✨

Say hello to sweet nostalgia with this easy and delicious Homemade Orange Julius! If you’ve ever sipped on that frothy, creamy, citrusy goodness from the mall or fair, you know exactly why this drink is such a favorite. With just a few simple ingredients like frozen orange juice concentrate, milk, vanilla ice cream, and a splash of vanilla extract, you can recreate this iconic treat right at home in just minutes. 🧡

It’s the perfect refreshment for warm days, family brunches, or anytime you need a little citrus sunshine in your glass. Plus, no special equipment needed—just a blender and a craving for something sweet and frothy!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy, dreamy Orange Julius:

12 ounces frozen orange juice concentrate
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup whole milk (or substitute with your favorite plant-based milk)
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups ice cubes

How to Make Orange Julius

Add Ingredients to Blender: In a high-speed blender, combine the frozen orange juice concentrate, granulated sugar, whole milk, vanilla ice cream, vanilla extract, and ice cubes.
Blend Until Smooth and Frothy: Blend on high speed until everything is smooth, creamy, and frothy. This usually takes about 1–2 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Pour into tall glasses and serve immediately while frothy and chilled. Add a slice of orange or a fun straw for extra flair!

Serving Suggestions

Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest for an extra-special touch.
Make it tropical by adding a splash of pineapple juice or coconut milk.
Serve in chilled glasses to keep it frosty longer.
Turn it into a creamsicle float by adding a scoop of extra vanilla ice cream on top!

What Chefs Say About This Recipe

Gordon Ramsay – “Simple, sweet, and refreshing—a perfect throwback drink with classic flavors.”

Ina Garten – “The vanilla ice cream makes this so creamy and smooth—easy and absolutely delightful.”

Jamie Oliver – “Fun, frothy, and full of citrus flavor—the perfect family-friendly drink!”

Martha Stewart – “Elegantly simple, this Orange Julius brings sweet memories with every sip.”

Bobby Flay – “Sweet, tangy, and creamy—an iconic drink that never goes out of style.”

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh orange juice instead of frozen concentrate?

You can, but the frozen concentrate provides a stronger flavor and thicker texture. If using fresh juice, reduce the added milk slightly and add more ice.

2. Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! Use almond, oat, or coconut milk and swap the ice cream for a dairy-free vanilla ice cream.

3. How can I make this drink less sweet?

Reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup or to taste. The sweetness can also be balanced by adding a splash of lemon juice.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

This drink is best served fresh, as the frothiness fades over time. However, you can prep the ingredients and blend just before serving.

5. What if I don’t have a blender?

A food processor can work in a pinch, but a blender gives the best smooth, frothy consistency.

6. Can I add other fruit flavors?

Yes! Try adding frozen strawberries, mango, or pineapple for a fruity twist.

7. Does this taste like a creamsicle?

Exactly! It has that classic orange-vanilla creamsicle flavor that’s sweet, creamy, and refreshing.

8. Can I add protein powder to make it a smoothie?

Absolutely! Add vanilla or unflavored protein powder to boost the nutrition while keeping it tasty.

9. How can I make it thicker?

Add extra ice or a second scoop of vanilla ice cream for a thicker, milkshake-like consistency.

10. Can I make this into an adult cocktail?

Yes! Add a splash of orange liqueur like triple sec or orange vodka for a boozy twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: ~280 kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Sugar: 42g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 90mg
Saturated Fat: 5g

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Best enjoyed immediately for maximum frothiness and texture. If needed, store in the fridge for up to 4 hours and re-blend before serving.

Freeze: Not recommended as freezing changes the texture, but you can freeze into popsicle molds for a fun summer treat!

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Conclusion

With its smooth, creamy texture and bold citrus flavor, this Homemade Orange Julius is a refreshing blast from the past that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Perfect for hot summer days, family breakfasts, or whenever you’re craving a sweet and frothy treat, this recipe brings the joy of the classic Orange Julius stand straight to your kitchen. Try it today—you’ll be hooked after the first sip! 🍊🍦✨