If you crave a sweet treat that brings back pure summer nostalgia, this Orange Crush Sherbet might just become your new favorite dessert! With only a handful of simple ingredients, this frozen delight captures all the fizzy citrusy goodness of the iconic soda while being ultra-creamy and refreshing. It’s the sort of old-school recipe that’s so easy, you’ll want to show it off at every barbecue and family party. Let’s jump in and whip up some Orange Crush Sherbet magic together!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the beauties of Orange Crush Sherbet is its simplicity – each ingredient is carefully chosen to create vibrant color, creamy texture, and that unmistakable orange soda flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a tip or note for each one:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz): This is the secret to delicious creaminess and balanced sweetness in your sherbet.
- Orange Crush Soda (1 liter, chilled): Be sure to use it cold, as it helps the mixture stay light and combines more easily; this brings the signature zingy orange flavor to the dessert.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Just a dash elevates the orange flavor and adds a cozy, aromatic warmth.
- Pinch of Salt: Don’t skip this tiny addition – it brightens all the other flavors in your Orange Crush Sherbet.
How to Make Orange Crush Sherbet
Step 1: Mix the Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl, because that’s where all the magic happens! Pour in the sweetened condensed milk first, then slowly add the chilled Orange Crush soda. Toss in the vanilla extract and a quick pinch of salt. Gently whisk everything together just until it’s fully blended and a bit light and foamy. The gentle whisking keeps things creamy, not flat – so don’t be too vigorous!
Step 2: Freeze the Mixture
Once your Orange Crush Sherbet base is smooth and dreamy, pour it into a freezer-safe loaf pan or container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a snug-fitting lid. Pop it in the freezer and let it chill for at least 4 to 6 hours, or until set. For extra creaminess, you can stir the mixture every hour during the first 3 hours, which helps prevent big ice crystals and keeps the texture soft and scoopable.
Step 3: Scoop and Enjoy!
When the sherbet is completely frozen, it’s ready for scooping! If it feels a bit too firm, let it sit on the counter for a few minutes to soften up – then dip your scoop in hot water for perfect, neat rounds. Serve your Orange Crush Sherbet right away for a frosty, bubbly treat that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
How to Serve Orange Crush Sherbet
Garnishes
Turn your bowls into works of art! Top your sherbet with a twist of fresh orange zest, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of fun rainbow sprinkles. For a grown-up touch, a mint leaf or two looks gorgeous against the orange hue.
Side Dishes
Pair your Orange Crush Sherbet with simple butter cookies, crisp biscotti, or even a slice of light angel food cake. The sherbet’s bright citrus notes balance out richer sweets beautifully, making every bite feel extra exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping dessert, serve scoops in hollowed-out orange halves, or layer them into parfait glasses with vanilla ice cream for a dreamy creamsicle effect. Hosting a party? Make mini sherbet sandwiches with sugar cookies, or scoop it between two shortbread biscuits—it’s a playful twist everyone will love!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Simply keep your Orange Crush Sherbet covered tightly in its freezer container. It’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, though we bet it disappears much sooner! Be sure to press plastic wrap directly against the surface to avoid freezer burn.
Freezing
The sherbet will firm up more the longer it sits, so check your freezer’s temperature if it becomes difficult to scoop. For best results, use within a couple of weeks and avoid placing it near the freezer door where temperature fluctuates more.
Reheating
Sherbet isn’t for reheating, but if it’s too hard to scoop, let it rest on the counter for 5–10 minutes. This softens the texture and brings back that luscious, creamy melt-in-your-mouth vibe.
FAQs
Can I use another orange soda instead of Orange Crush?
Absolutely! While Orange Crush gives that classic nostalgic flavor and color, any orange soda (like Fanta or Sunkist) works well in this recipe. Just make sure it’s chilled for best results.
Why is my sherbet icy instead of creamy?
If your Orange Crush Sherbet turns out a bit icy, it’s likely due to not stirring it during the initial freezing period. Stirring every hour prevents large ice crystals and ensures that crazy smooth texture we’re after.
Is there a dairy-free or vegan version?
You can swap the sweetened condensed milk for a coconut-based or oat-based condensed milk alternative to make a vegan-friendly sherbet. The flavor will be slightly different, but still deliciously creamy and citrusy!
Can I add extra mix-ins or toppings before freezing?
Definitely! Mini chocolate chips, tiny marshmallows, or even chopped candied orange peel can go right in before you freeze. Just remember heavy mix-ins might sink to the bottom, so you may want to fold them in partway through freezing when you stir.
How can I make it extra-creamy?
For an even richer dessert, blend in 1/2 cup of heavy cream with your other ingredients before freezing. It’ll taste just like the creamiest dreamsicle you can imagine and make your Orange Crush Sherbet even more irresistible!
Final Thoughts
Give this Orange Crush Sherbet a try, and let it steal the show at your next summer gathering or family dinner. With its blast of citrus and smooth, creamy texture, it’s the kind of treat that will have everyone clamoring for seconds. Grab a couple of simple ingredients and turn your kitchen into a sweet, fizzy wonderland—it’s sherbet time!
Print
Orange Crush Sherbet Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing and vibrant taste of Orange Crush Sherbet, a delightful frozen treat that’s easy to make and perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Ingredients
Sherbet:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 liter Orange Crush soda (chilled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, Orange Crush soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and slightly foamy.
- Freeze Mixture: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container or loaf pan. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until firm. For a creamier texture, stir the mixture every hour for the first 3 hours to break up ice crystals.
- Serve: Once fully frozen, scoop and serve like traditional sherbet. Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it’s too firm to scoop.
Notes
- You can use any orange-flavored soda, but Orange Crush gives it the classic vibrant flavor.
- For an extra-creamy version, blend in 1/2 cup heavy cream before freezing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
