Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – You can make this delicious drink in just a few minutes.
- Creamy & Frothy – The vanilla ice cream and milk create a smooth, velvety texture.
- Sweet & Tangy – The balance of orange juice concentrate and vanilla makes for the perfect flavor combo.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a summer day or a cozy afternoon, this drink is always a hit.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or thickness to your liking!
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 ounces frozen orange juice concentrate
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups ice cubes
Directions
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the frozen orange juice concentrate, sugar, whole milk, vanilla ice cream, and vanilla extract.
- Add Ice: Add the ice cubes and blend on high until smooth and frothy.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker drink, add more ice or ice cream. For a thinner texture, add a little more milk.
- Serve & Enjoy: Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Garnish with a slice of orange if desired!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Citrus Blend: Mix in a little lemon juice or lime juice for an added citrus kick.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk and dairy-free ice cream for a non-dairy version.
- Extra Sweet: Add a little more sugar or honey for an extra sweet treat.
- Tropical Twist: Add a splash of pineapple juice or frozen mango chunks for a tropical flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the fridge for a few hours. Shake or stir well before drinking.
- Freezing: For a thicker, sorbet-like treat, freeze the leftovers and scrape with a spoon when ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of concentrate?
Yes! If you use fresh orange juice, you may need to add a little more sugar to balance the flavor.
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
It's best served immediately to retain its frothy texture, but you can store it in the fridge for a couple of hours.
Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?
Absolutely! Try using other ice cream flavors like coconut or mango for a fun twist.
Can I make this drink less sweet?
Yes, reduce the amount of sugar to your taste or use a sugar substitute.
How can I make this drink thicker?
Add more ice or ice cream to create a thicker, smoothie-like texture.
Conclusion
Making your own Orange Julius at home is easier than ever with this simple recipe! With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy, tangy, and refreshing treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for any occasion, give it a try and enjoy the nostalgic flavors of this classic drink!

Orange Julius
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bring the classic taste of Orange Julius to your kitchen with this simple recipe! A creamy, frothy drink made with orange juice concentrate, vanilla ice cream, and a touch of vanilla extract. Perfect for a refreshing treat on a hot day or a nostalgic snack anytime!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces frozen orange juice concentrate
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups ice cubes
Instructions
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the frozen orange juice concentrate, sugar, whole milk, vanilla ice cream, and vanilla extract.
- Add Ice: Add the ice cubes and blend on high until smooth and frothy.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker drink, add more ice or ice cream. For a thinner texture, add a little more milk.
- Serve & Enjoy: Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Garnish with a slice of orange if desired!
Notes
- For a thicker texture, add extra ice or ice cream.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or a natural sweetener like honey.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few hours. Stir or shake well before drinking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: American