Orange Tang Pie Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a no-bake treat that’s equal parts nostalgic, vibrant, and downright irresistible, look no further than Orange Tang Pie. This retro favorite combines zippy citrus flavor with creamy goodness and a buttery graham cracker crust, creating the ultimate refreshing dessert for potlucks, parties, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. One slice, and you’re hooked!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Orange Tang Pie is in its simplicity—just five pantry-friendly ingredients come together to deliver big flavor, luscious texture, and that iconic orange hue. Each component plays an essential role, from binding and fluffiness to the zippy citrus you crave.

• Tang Powder: This beloved orange drink mix is the not-so-secret ingredient that gives the pie its signature citrus punch and brilliant color. Don’t substitute—it’s what makes this dessert truly special!
• Cream Cheese (softened): Provides a tangy richness and smooth body to the filling; bringing it to room temperature ensures lump-free mixing.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds creamy sweetness and helps bind everything together, so every bite is luscious and cohesive.
• Cool Whip: Folded in for lightness and fluff, Cool Whip makes the filling impossibly airy and helps the pie hold its shape.
• Graham Cracker Crust: The crunchy, buttery base is the perfect counterpoint to all that creamy, dreamy filling; store-bought or homemade both work!

Variations

One of my favorite things about Orange Tang Pie? It’s so easy to customize! Whether you’re working around dietary needs or just want to switch up the flavor, there are plenty of simple tweaks to make this refreshing pie your own.

• Frozen Orange Tang Pie: Pop the assembled pie into the freezer and serve it extra cold for a frosty, icebox-style treat that’s unbelievably refreshing on hot days.
• Mini Tang Pies: Swap the standard crust for mini graham cracker shells—adorable for parties or individual servings!
• Citrus Twist: Try subbing part of the Tang powder with lemonade or limeade drink mix for a tart, zesty spin.
• Lightened-Up Version: Use light cream cheese and reduced-fat whipped topping for a slightly lighter slice that still captures all the creamy citrus flavor.

How to Make Orange Tang Pie

Step 1: Beat Cream Cheese and Tang Together

Start by adding the softened cream cheese and Tang powder to a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together until the mixture is creamy, completely blended, and silky-smooth. It’s important to eliminate any lumps at this stage, so your filling is velvety all the way through.

Step 2: Mix in Sweetened Condensed Milk

Next, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix again until everything is thoroughly incorporated. The mixture will become lighter in color and texture, transforming into a thick, dreamy base you’ll be tempted to sample with a spoon!

Step 3: Fold in the Cool Whip

Switch to a spatula and gently fold the Cool Whip into the filling. Be careful not to over-mix—you want to keep as much airiness as possible, so the pie stays light and fluffy. When it looks creamy and uniform, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 4: Fill the Crust and Chill

Spoon the orange filling into your graham cracker crust (or divide between two regular pie shells for shallower pies). Use a spatula to smooth the top or pile it high with swoops if you’re going for that mile-high mounded look. Place the pie in the fridge and let it chill for at least 2 hours, so it can set up perfectly—longer is even better if you can wait!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the Orange Tang Pie is fully chilled, slice and serve straight from the fridge, or pop it in the freezer for a frosty twist. Every bite is a burst of creamy, citrusy nostalgia—perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself, no judgment!).

How to Serve Orange Tang Pie

Garnishes

Top your Orange Tang Pie with extra dollops of whipped cream, a sprinkle of orange zest, or festive slices of mandarin orange for a bright and beautiful finish. If you want a touch of retro flair, try adding a few maraschino cherries—classic, sweet, and so cheerful on the vivid orange backdrop!

Side Dishes

This pie is a superstar at spring cookouts, picnics, and potlucks. Pair it with fresh fruit salads, grilled chicken, or savory classics like deviled eggs and potato salad for a complete retro feast. The citrusy zing makes it especially nice after barbecue or spicy dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try making mini Orange Tang Pies in individual tart shells or mason jars for a fun, portable option. If you’re hosting a kids’ gathering, cut the pie into cube “bars” and serve them on colorful platters—guaranteed smiles and sticky fingers all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any Orange Tang Pie leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store individual slices in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay creamy and delicious for up to 5 days—though it’s rare to see it last that long!

Freezing

This pie freezes beautifully! Simply wrap tightly and freeze the whole pie or slices. Serve directly from the freezer for an ice cream-cake-like texture, or let it thaw in the fridge for a softer, mousse-like filling.

Reheating

Orange Tang Pie is best served chilled or lightly frozen, so no need to reheat it. If you do want a softer filling, just let a frozen slice sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before enjoying!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cheerful, creamy, and bursting with orange sunshine, Orange Tang Pie delivers with every bite. There’s a reason this dessert has stood the test of time—so grab that drink mix and give it a try. I promise your taste buds (and your friends!) will thank you.

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