Name: Orange Julius
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1/2 of a (12-ounce) container orange juice ( from concentrate, not thawed); 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup water; 1/4 cup powdered sugar (see note 1); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (increase/reduce to personal preference); 1 cup ice cubes

Orange Julius Recipe

A copycat Orange Julius Recipe made in the blender using orange concentrate, milk, vanilla extract, and a little bit of sugar!

A couple cups of Orange Julius with fresh oranges on the side.

author’s note

This Copycat Orange Julius Tastes Just Like Childhood!

Nothing takes me back to my childhood faster than an Orange Julius. My siblings learned how to make it in foods class, and from that point on, it became a Christmas morning tradition at my house. I can still picture my mom pulling out the blender while we were all half awake, waiting for that first cold, frothy sip.

I’ve made this drink more times than I can count, tweaking little things along the way to get it just right. Some versions were too icy, some too sweet, and some just didn’t have that signature creamy texture. This version is the one I keep coming back to. It’s smooth, perfectly sweet, and has that nostalgic flavor I remember.

Lately, I’ve been making it for my kids as an after-school treat or alongside a big weekend breakfast. It feels a little special but takes almost no effort, which is always a win.

Orange Julius Recipe Ingredients

Ingredient	Tip or Swap
Orange juice concentrate	Use straight from the freezer for the best thick texture and bold flavor
Milk	Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but almond or oat milk works great
Powdered sugar	Blends smoother than granulated and keeps the drink silky
Vanilla extract	Adds that classic flavor, don’t skip it
Ice cubes	Use enough to chill and thicken without watering it down

Blended Orange Julius still in the blender.

How To Make An Orange Julius Recipe

Combine ingredients. Add all the ingredients to a blender.
Blend. Blend everything until the ice is all combined and it’s frothy.
Serve. Immediately after blending, pour into glasses and enjoy! It’s sure to be a hit!

Variations

Try Something New!

Top your drink with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
Add some frozen berries, like strawberries or raspberries, for extra fruitiness.
Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical flavor like a Pina Colada.