Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Copycat Orange Julius gives you all the creamy, citrusy goodness you crave, but made with ingredients you probably already have at home. The recipe is simple, with just a few basic ingredients blended together for a smooth and velvety texture. It’s customizable to your sweetness preference and can even be adjusted to be dairy-free. Whether you’re sipping it in the summer heat or enjoying it as a fun snack, it’s a tasty way to indulge in a classic treat!
Ingredients
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1 cup orange juice (fresh or from concentrate)
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1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar (or to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup ice cubes
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1/4 cup water
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1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional, for extra creaminess) (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Combine the orange juice, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ice cubes, and water in a blender.
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Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
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Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired, then blend again.
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For a thicker consistency, add more ice cubes or a bit of powdered sugar.
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Pour into a glass and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Orange Julius!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 2-3
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Dairy-Free Version: Swap the milk for any plant-based milk, such as almond milk or coconut milk, and use a non-dairy sweetener to make it completely vegan.
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More Citrus Flavor: For an extra citrus kick, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance the tangy flavor.
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Tropical Twist: Add pineapple juice or frozen mango chunks for a tropical variation of the Orange Julius.
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Extra Creamy: To make the drink even creamier, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt.
Storage/Reheating
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This drink is best served immediately after blending to ensure the smooth texture and cold refreshment.
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If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, the drink may separate, so it’s best to give it a good shake or stir before consuming.
FAQs
Can I use frozen orange juice?
Yes, frozen orange juice works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw it before blending.
Is there a way to make this recipe lower in sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to lower the sweetness. Just adjust to your taste.
Can I make a bigger batch of this?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch. Just ensure that you have a large enough blender to handle the extra ingredients.
Can I use any kind of milk?
Yes, you can use any milk, including dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. The choice of milk will slightly alter the flavor but will still taste delicious.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, it may lose some of its creamy texture and may need a good stir before serving.
How can I make this drink thicker?
If you want a thicker drink, simply add more ice cubes or blend in frozen fruit like bananas or mangoes.
Can I make this without ice?
Yes, you can make this without ice, but the drink won’t be as cold or thick. You could freeze some of the orange juice or water into ice cubes beforehand to help keep it cold.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, by substituting dairy milk for plant-based milk and adjusting the sweeteners, you can make this recipe completely vegan.
What if I don’t have a blender?
If you don’t have a blender, you can mix the ingredients using a hand mixer or food processor. Just be sure to crush the ice first for a smoother texture.
Conclusion
This Copycat Orange Julius recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make treat that brings the taste of the beloved classic right into your home. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick breakfast or a refreshing beverage on a warm day, this creamy and citrusy drink is sure to hit the spot. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences, making it the perfect drink for any occasion!
Copycat Orange Julius
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Copycat Orange Julius recipe is the homemade version of the classic creamy, refreshing drink loved for decades. With a perfect balance of orange flavor, sweetness, and creaminess, this easy-to-make drink is ideal for breakfast, snacks, or as a refreshing treat. Customize it to your sweetness or dietary preferences and enjoy a nostalgic treat at home!
Ingredients
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1 cup orange juice (fresh or from concentrate)
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1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar (or to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup ice cubes
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1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
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Blend Ingredients: Combine the orange juice, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ice cubes, and water in a blender.
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Blend: Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture and add more sugar if desired, then blend again.
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Thicker Consistency: For a thicker drink, add more ice cubes or a bit of powdered sugar.
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Serve: Pour into a glass and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Orange Julius!
Notes
Variations:Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut) and a non-dairy sweetener for a vegan version.Extra Citrus: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a tangier flavor.Tropical Twist: Add pineapple juice or frozen mango chunks for a tropical variation.Extra Creamy: Blend in a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.Storage:xwBest served immediately, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Shake or stir before serving.
