Orange Julius

This easy homemade Orange Julius recipe blends up into a smooth, frothy drink that’s a perfect treat. Just like the original it has a creamy texture and fresh orange flavor, it’s like a burst of sunshine in a glass.

 

Easy Orange Julius Recipe

If you grew up near a shopping mall, you probably remember those Orange Julius stores with their frothy, creamy, and delightfully sweet orange drinks that everyone loved. If you thought you’d never see them again, there’s good news. With this easy recipe, you can bring those classic flavors right into your own kitchen using just a handful of ingredients that you most likely keep on hand.

This homemade Orange Julius blends into a smooth, refreshing, creamy orange drink that tastes even better than the original recipe. It’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day or satisfying a craving for something bright and citrusy. The best part is that you can easily customize it by adding more or less sugar, adjusting the amount of ice, or even trying it with additional fruit.

If you love this orange drink you should also try this Orange Sherbet Punch and this Orange Cream Soda. 

Why We Love This Drink Recipe

• Nostalgia – This brings you right back to childhood
• Delicious – This refreshing treat tastes like a combination of freshly squeezed orange juice and an orange creamsicle.
• Budget-friendly – The homemade version is made with simple ingredients and is cheaper than the ones you get at the mall food court.   
• Light and refreshing – This is a great recipe when you’re craving something cool and creamy on a hot summer day.
• Family favorite – Kids and adults alike enjoy this delicious, frothy orange drink. 

Ingredients

• Frozen orange juice concentrate, slightly thawed – This provides the intense orange flavor that gives it classic Orange Julius flavor.
• Whole milk – Adds creaminess to the drink, making it rich and smooth.
• Water – Helps to dilute the concentrate and blend everything together smoothly.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the drink and ensures a smooth texture without any graininess.
• Pure vanilla extract – Adds a hint of vanilla flavor that complements the orange perfectly.
• Ice cubes – Blended to give the drink a frothy texture and help keep it cold and refreshing.
• Whole oranges – You’ll use orange slices for garnish.

Kitchen Tools Needed to Make Orange Julius

• High-speed blender 
• Measuring cups 
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving glasses

How to Make the Best Copycat Or​ange Julius

1. Add all ingredients except orange slices to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.
2. Serve immediately garnished with orange slices.

Recipe Variations

• Orange juice – You can use 2 cups of fresh orange juice instead of orange juice concentrate.
• Fruit – Feel free to add other fresh fruit. Blend in some pineapple, mango, peaches, or strawberries for extra fruity goodness. 
• Nondairy milk – We used cow’s milk but you can use coconut milk, soy milk, or almond milk for non-dairy options. 
• Protein shake – Add a protein boost with vanilla Greek yogurt or protein powder.
• Orange juice smoothie – Make it an extra decadent treat by blending in a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some sherbet. This does increase the added sugar so you may want to cut back on the powdered sugar that is added. 
• Popsicles – If you want to turn this into a frozen treat, you can pour the mixture in a popsicle mold and freeze for about 4-6 hours. 
• Boozy Julius – For an adult version, you can add a splash for vodka or rum. 

More Fun Drink Recipes

• Starbucks Pink Drink
• Chick-fil-A Frosted Sunrise
• Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade
• McDonald’s Shamrock Shake
• Disney’s Dole Whip