Copycat Orange Julius
Make a creamy, homemade Copycat Orange Julius in just 10 minutes with six ingredients. Easy, quick, and refreshing for spring and summer.
There’s something so nostalgic about a classic Orange Julius recipe: the creamy, frothy orange drink that many of us fondly remember sipping at shopping malls and food courts. Its iconic blend of citrus and sweetness, topped with that airy, frothy foam, made it more than just a drink; it was a treat and an experience! That’s why I created this Copycat Orange Julius recipe, so you can easily enjoy it at home and relive those simple, joyful moments with every refreshing sip. My kids absolutely love it too!
COPYCAT ORANGE JULIUS
To get that authentic Orange Julius taste, I recommend using full-fat milk, pure vanilla extract, and blending thoroughly to get that smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor. If you’ve never tried an Orange Julius, this recipe is a must-save! The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it unforgettable, while the vanilla adds a subtle richness that complements the bright citrus notes. It’s ideal as a cooling beverage on hot days, a fun breakfast smoothie, or even a light dessert when you’re craving something sweet without feeling too heavy.
Find my expert tips on how to make a homemade Orange Julius below! Don’t forget to tag me in all of your creations @lifeinthelofthouse on Instagram and Facebook. Let’s stay connected. ❤️
Why You’ll Love This Easy Copycat Orange Julius Recipe:
- Quick & Simple: This recipe only takes 10 minutes start to finish and is made from 6 simple, easy-to-find ingredients. It’s also a great drink when you need something last-minute for a get-together!
- Creamy & Citrusy: This drink’s creamy, frothy texture is just like the classic and original Orange Julius.
- Customizable: Add a scoop of protein powder, Greek yogurt, or different fruits for a more filling smoothie-style drink without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect For Any Occasion: This recipe is an easy, refreshing beverage for hot days by the pool or whenever you’re in the mood for a nostalgic sweet drink.
Ingredients
- 1 container (12 ounces) frozen orange juice concentrate
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 14 ice cubes
Instructions
Combine all ingredients except ice into a blender. Cover with a lid and blend for about 30 seconds.
Add 5 ice cubes at a time and continue to blend until all are crushed and thoroughly mixed. Pour into glasses and enjoy!
Servings
Serves 4.
Storage
This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh for its signature frothy texture, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Since separation may occur, simply shake or re-blend before serving. For longer storage, freeze the smoothie in a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray for up to one month, then re-blend with a splash of milk when ready to enjoy.
Holly’s Tips for The Best Copycat Orange Julius Smoothie:
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Starting with chilled milk and cold water helps create that signature thick, frosty consistency without over-blending the ice.
- Adjust Sweetness As Needed: Depending on your orange juice concentrate, you can slightly reduce or increase the sugar for a perfectly balanced flavor.
- Add Ice Gradually As You Blend: Adding ice gradually prevents chunks and ensures a creamy, evenly blended drink every time.
- Make It Your Own: To make it extra creamy, swap part of the milk for half-and-half or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent version. You can also add a splash of lemon or lime juice for extra brightness and a slightly tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions:
You can, but the flavor will be lighter. For best results, use frozen orange juice concentrate to achieve that classic taste.
This usually happens if the ice melts too much or if it’s over-blended. Add ice slowly and serve immediately for best results.
Add more ice cubes gradually or use frozen milk cubes instead of regular ice for a thicker, creamier texture.
Yes! Substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version that’s still creamy and delicious.
This Copycat Orange Julius recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, to ensure it stays completely gluten-free, double-check that your frozen orange juice concentrate and vanilla extract are labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives or be processed in facilities with gluten. Also, verify that any milk alternatives are gluten-free.
Similar Recipes
Craving something similar? Make my Strawberry Orange Julius.
In the mood for something different? Try my Watermelon Lemonade Slushies.
Looking for something to pair it with for brunch? Make my Berry Croissant Bake.
Can’t get enough of orange recipes? Make these highly-rated recipes: Orange Rolls, Glazed Orange Rolls, and Orange Creamsicle Cookies.
Have you made this Orange Julius recipe? 🍊
Leave a review, and don’t forget to tag me in your creations on Instagram and Facebook! @lifeinthelofthouse! #OrangeJulius #LifeInTheLofthouse
Orange Julius
Ingredients
- 1 container (12 ounces) frozen orange juice concentrate
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 14 ice cubes
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except ice into a blender. Cover with lid and blend for about 30 seconds.
- Add 5 ice cubes at a time and continue to blend until all crushed and thoroughly mixed. Pour into glasses and enjoy!
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I love to make Orange Julius drinks! My recipe isn’t exactly like this but yours looks so good – I’m definitely gonna give it a try. So nice to have connected with you my new blog friend!
I have never had a Orange Julius, can you believe it? It looks seriously refreshing and that’s just the kind of thing I’m craving lately.I’ve been getting grape slushies at sonic, but this looks SO good I will have to try it!
Wow. That looks just like the ones you get from the Orange Julius stands. I bet it tastes better! I love the banana ones too.
I make this all the time!! Isn’t it fabulous and my kids like it too, double bonus!!!
What a delicious looking drink for breakfast or even anytime. I’m starting a new linky on my blog this Saturday called “Sweets for a Saturday.” If you get a chance, I’d like to invite you to stop by then and link this up.
Some very good friends of ours (who at the time were neighbors and today live on another continent) used to make these for us when we’d get together. This brings back such great memories. Thanks for posting! I haven’t made these in years and will plan to make them for my family this weekend!!! 🙂
I’ve never had an Orange Julius, but this looks yummy! 🙂
My siblings and I use to make these all the time in the summer when we were kids. I am so glad I found this recipe, thank you for sharing!
I love these…growing up there was a stand in our local mall. was always there. but a quick question………..what could i add to this to make more of an adult drink? Not sure what alcohol would work best with this. Any suggestions?
Thank you,
Lisa
I would say vodka would be a fun addition if wanting to make it an adult drink. It would be like a frozen screw driver! 🙂