Orange Julius

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A cold, sweet Orange Julius carries the taste of sunshine in every sip. It’s citrusy, smooth, and just foamy enough to feel like a treat, whether you’re cooling off on a July afternoon or craving something nostalgic. This drink isn’t quite a smoothie, not exactly a milkshake, and more exciting than plain juice. In this guide, I’ll show you how to make the perfect Orange Julius at home, explore variations, and share the fascinating backstory of this beloved refreshment.

What Is an Orange Julius?

Orange Julius is a frothy drink, best known for its blend of orange juice concentrate, milk, vanilla, and sweetener—sometimes with an egg for added richness and foam. Its unique texture comes from blending everything with ice until a layer of creamy froth forms on top. The result is a beverage that’s sweet, tangy, and delightfully smooth.

Some compare the flavor to a melted orange creamsicle, while others see it as a high-energy orange shake. Regardless of where it falls in the drink spectrum, Orange Julius has maintained popularity for nearly a century.

Orange Julius Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a distinct role. Here’s what to gather before you start:

• Ice cubes: Essential for a refreshing, cold texture. Use enough to make the drink thick without diluting the flavor.
• Frozen orange juice concentrate: Key for vibrant orange taste and thickness.
• Milk: Whole milk yields the creamiest results, but 2% or skim can be swapped in if desired.
• Heavy cream or whipping cream (optional): Adds richness and helps create lush foam.
• Banana (optional): A half ripe banana adds subtle sweetness and body.
• Sugar or powdered sugar: Sweetens and balances citrus acidity. Powdered sugar dissolves quickly for a smoother sip.
• Egg (pasteurized, optional): Traditional Orange Julius uses raw egg for signature frothiness. Use a pasteurized egg or omit if concerned.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances the creamsicle effect.
• Powdered dairy creamer or condensed milk (optional): For added creaminess.
• Pinch of salt: Just enough to soften any bitterness and round the flavor.

Ingredient Table

Step-By-Step: How to Make Orange Julius

Preparation is quick, and cleanup is easy. For best results, use a sturdy blender that can crush ice with ease.

Instructions

• Add ingredients to blender: Place ice cubes, orange juice concentrate, milk, heavy cream, banana (if using), sugar, egg (if using), vanilla, creamer, and a pinch of salt in the blender jar.
• Blend: Start on low speed to crush the ice, then increase to high until smooth. Look for a frothy top and creamy consistency.
• Taste and adjust: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a bit more sugar. If you want it thicker, add extra ice.
• Serve: Immediately pour into chilled glasses and enjoy straight away.

Example Measurements

• 1 cup ice cubes
• ¾ cup frozen orange juice concentrate
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ½ ripe banana
• 2-3 tablespoons powdered sugar (or to taste)
• 1 pasteurized egg (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon powdered creamer (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Smart Tips and Swaps

Getting the ideal Orange Julius is all about technique and flexibility. Here’s how to fine-tune the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs.

• No orange juice concentrate? Blend fresh orange juice and freeze it in an ice cube tray. Use these cubes in place of some ice for a less watery drink.
• Worried about raw eggs? Only use pasteurized eggs, or leave them out. You’ll still get creamy, blended froth, just with a slightly lighter foam.
• Powdered vs. granulated sugar: Powdered dissolves fast; granulated needs extra blending.
• Banana for thickness: Freeze before blending for extra chill and texture.
• Chill your glasses: Pop them in the freezer 20 minutes before serving, so your drink stays perfectly cold.
• Too thick? Add milk a splash at a time.
• Want richer flavor? Replace milk with a non-dairy option like coconut milk, or experiment with half-and-half.

Flavor Variations: Make It Your Own

Orange Julius is a canvas for creativity. Try these variations:

• Berry Julius: Swap orange for 1½ cups frozen mixed berries. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Tropical twist: Replace orange juice concentrate with 8 ounces frozen pineapple or mango.
• Coconut Julius: Use coconut milk instead of dairy, complementing the citrus with island flavors.
• Lemonade Julius: Substitute lemonade concentrate for a tart, summer punch.
• Vegan Julius: Skip the egg and creamer. Use almond or oat milk, coconut cream for body, and a bit of maple syrup as a sweetener.
• Yogurt Julius: Use Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt in place of the cream for a tangier, probiotic-rich drink.

Simple Storage and Popsicle Hack

If you make too much, pour leftovers into popsicle molds and freeze. You get homemade orange creamsicle pops—no waste, all flavor. Orange Julius doesn’t store well in the fridge for long due to melting ice, so blending fresh for each serving is best.

History and Origins: More Than a Drink

Orange Julius traces its beginnings to a Los Angeles juice stand in 1926. Julius Freed, its creator, sought a less acidic orange drink that even sensitive stomachs could enjoy. By blending orange juice with milk, sugar, ice, vanilla, and egg, he crafted the first frothy Orange Julius.

The drink became a California sensation, famous for its creamy body and sweet citrus kick. As crowds gathered outside Freed’s stand, they’d call out requests—“Give me an Orange, Julius!”—and the name stuck. Today, it’s part of Dairy Queen’s menu, expanding its reach beyond regional nostalgia.

Nutrition: What’s in Your Glass?

Orange Julius leans more indulgent than healthy. A standard homemade serving (about 12 ounces) contains:

Exact values vary based on your swaps—switching to reduced-fat milk or less sugar can lighten things up. For a treat, though, Orange Julius keeps its place as a satisfying splurge.

Fun Facts

• World’s Fair Spotlight: Orange Julius was the official beverage at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.
• Iconic mascot: The 1970s logo—a mischievous devil—was once a familiar sight until changes in the 1980s.
• Pop culture: Orange Julius stands have appeared in films, music videos, and retro souvenirs, cementing their place in Americana.

Final Thoughts: Why Orange Julius Endures

Blending the zesty sweetness of citrus, mellow cream, and a light cloud of foam, Orange Julius isn’t simply a drink—it’s miniature nostalgia, a summer festival, or a treat you reward yourself for surviving a long week. With a handful of common kitchen staples and a blender, you can enjoy this iconic classic anytime. Experiment, sip, and discover your favorite twist on the original.