Homemade Orange Julius Recipe
Bring on the nostalgia with this homemade orange julius recipe! This thick and creamy drink is a cross between a milkshake and a smoothie and tastes like an orange creamsicle. No need to head to the mall to grab one of these – they’re easy to make at home with just a handful of ingredients.

I love the way food can bring a flood of memories rushing back. One bite of pumpkin roll or Nana’s easy cheesecake transports me to second grade, helping my nana in her kitchen. With a sip of strawberry lemonade or a bite of air-fryer pop tarts, I’m a kid again, enjoying the summer sunshine.
Copycat Hostess cupcakes and dunkaroo dip evoke memories of road trips and snacks from gas stations. And one sip of this homemade orange julius recipe sends me back to my teenage years hanging out at the mall.
What is an Orange Julius?
If you’re a child of the ‘80s or ‘90s, you likely have fond memories of visiting the mall as a teenager. No trip was complete without stopping at the Orange Julius stand for its thick and creamy orange-based drink—a delightful blend of a milkshake and a smoothie that tasted like an orange creamsicle.
Orange Julius was eventually acquired by Dairy Queen, and while you can still find this beverage there, it’s not quite the same as the authentic version from the stands.
What was the original recipe’s secret ingredient?
The original orange julius incorporated a “secret ingredient.” Varied claims have emerged regarding whether it resembled malt powder, powdered coffee creamer, or even instant vanilla pudding mix. Though opinions differ, many agree that the original recipe included powdered egg whites, and at one point, even a raw egg.
If you want, feel free to add meringue powder or an egg to your homemade orange julius. However, this recipe is simple and delicious without those extras and is entirely egg-free, making it suitable for those with allergies.
How to Make a Homemade Orange Julius
It’s surprisingly easy to bring back the nostalgia of sipping on an orange julius from the mall. Now that I know how, it’s delightful to share this recipe with my kids!
Ingredients you’ll need
To make 2 servings of homemade orange julius, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 ounces frozen orange juice concentrate, slightly thawed
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup ice cubes
You can find 6-ounce cans of frozen orange juice concentrate in some stores, but 12-ounce cans are common. Save any leftover concentrate for another batch, turn it into orange juice, or double the recipe! Thaw the concentrate just enough to scoop it out, maintaining its cold temperature for a creamy texture.
For the richest flavor, I recommend using whole milk. However, 2% milk or plant-based alternatives can also be used, though the drink may not be as creamy.
Making this recipe
Here’s how easy it is to prepare this delightful drink:
- Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.
- Taste the orange julius, adding more powdered sugar if desired, one tablespoon at a time.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Recipe Variations
If you enjoy the classic flavors of orange creamsicles, there are fun ways to switch up the original for exciting variations:
- Substitute some or all of the ice cubes with frozen strawberries or peaches.
- Replace around half of the ice cubes with a frozen banana.
- Use pineapple juice instead of milk for a refreshing twist, keeping in mind the drink will be less creamy.
- Opt for coconut milk to give the drink a delightful tropical flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite non-dairy milk instead of whole milk. However, remember that the final drink won’t be as rich and creamy, except when using coconut milk, which provides a thicker, creamier texture.
Do I need a special blender to make this?
A high-speed blender is recommended for the smoothest texture, expertly blending the ice. However, any blender will work; just know the consistency may not be as creamy.
Will orange julius store well in the refrigerator?
It’s best to consume your orange julius right away. Storing it in the refrigerator will result in melted ice and separation. If you do have leftovers, consider pouring it into popsicle molds for a refreshing treat later.