This simple Homemade Orange Julius is frothy, creamy, and wonderfully refreshing—just like a melted creamsicle. It’s an easy, nostalgic drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Our copycat Orange Julius blends milk, water, frozen orange juice concentrate, sugar, vanilla, and ice for a smooth, sweet beverage without raw egg. It’s kid-friendly, quick to make, and easy to customize. Below you’ll find the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful variations, and nutrition details.
Homemade Orange Julius
If you love Orange Julius, you’ll be delighted at how simple it is to make at home. If this is your first time trying one, you’re in for a treat: a cold, sweet drink with a bright orange flavor and a light, frothy texture.
What is in an Orange Julius?
The original Orange Julius combined orange juice, sugar, vanilla, egg whites, and ice to create a uniquely frothy and creamy drink. It first gained popularity in the 20th century at juice stands and fairs. This modern copycat keeps the same delicious character but replaces egg whites with frozen orange concentrate and dairy for a safe, egg-free version that still delivers creamy texture and bold flavor.
Key Ingredients
- Milk – Use whole or 2% for the best creamy texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla adds depth and balances the citrus.
- Sugar – Regular white granulated sugar sweetens the drink.
- Frozen Orange Juice Concentrate – Any brand works; it provides concentrated orange flavor and body.
- Ice – Use cubes or crushed ice to create the frothy consistency.
How to Make An Orange Julius at Home
- Blend the base: Combine milk, water, vanilla extract, sugar, and frozen orange juice concentrate in a blender and blend until smooth and well combined.
- Add ice: Add the ice and blend again until the mixture is frothy and smooth.
- Serve: Pour into glasses and serve immediately with a straw.
Recipe Variations
- Add a couple scoops of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy, dessert-like treat.
- Blend in 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, mango, raspberries, or blackberries for a fruity twist.
- Include a ripe frozen banana to add natural sweetness and a velvety texture.
- For a nutrient boost, add a handful of spinach or kale. The greens mellow into the drink and add vitamins without overpowering the orange flavor.
- Swap regular milk for coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a subtle tropical note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Replace the water and frozen concentrate with about 1 quart of fresh orange juice. The texture will be slightly different and the orange flavor may be milder, but it will still be delicious.
No. Unlike the original recipe that used egg whites, this version is egg-free. The frozen concentrate and milk create a creamy, thick drink without eggs.
Homemade Orange Julius Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 12 ounces frozen orange juice concentrate
- 2 cups ice
Instructions
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Add the milk, water, vanilla extract, sugar, and orange juice concentrate to a blender and blend until well combined.
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Add the ice and blend again until smooth and frothy.
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Pour into individual glasses and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 40g
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 1g
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates provided for reference only.
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This homemade Orange Julius is the perfect chilly sweet treat for warm days—frothy, creamy, sweet, and loved by both kids and adults.