Healthy Orange Julius Recipe (Dairy Queen Copycat)

Healthy Orange Julius Recipe (Dairy Queen Copycat)

Healthy Orange Julius Recipe (Dairy Queen Copycat)

Today we are making a Healthy Orange Julius Recipe (a Dairy Queen Copycat)! Today we are making a Healthy Orange Julius Copycat Recipe! The Orange Julius is a classic drink that has been a staple at Dairy Queen for decades. Originally created in the late 1920s, this frothy, sweet, and tangy beverage quickly became a popular treat, known for its creamy texture and refreshing citrus flavor. The drink’s unique combination of orange juice, ice, and a frothy base made it a hit, and its popularity only grew when it became a permanent fixture on Dairy Queen’s menu. The Orange Julius has remained a fan favorite, beloved for its nostalgic appeal and the way it perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess in every sip.

Why Orange Julius is a Classic

What sets the Orange Julius apart from other citrus drinks is its signature creamy texture, which comes from blending the ingredients until they’re smooth and frothy. At Dairy Queen, the Orange Julius stands out as a lighter, more refreshing option compared to the brand’s richer offerings like Blizzards and milkshakes. It’s the perfect drink for those looking to enjoy something sweet and satisfying without the heaviness of a traditional dessert. Whether you’re cooling off on a hot summer day or just craving something that reminds you of childhood trips to the mall, the Orange Julius offers a unique and timeless flavor experience.

This Healthy Orange Julius Copycat Recipe brings the beloved flavors of Dairy Queen’s classic drink into your kitchen, with a modern twist that emphasizes health and nutrition. By using natural sweeteners and plant-based ingredients, this version maintains the creamy, frothy texture and bright citrus flavor that made the original famous, while offering a more wholesome alternative. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Orange Julius or trying it for the first time, this recipe allows you to enjoy a refreshing and nostalgic treat that’s both delicious and nourishing.

Side view of orange julius

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Copycat Orange Julius Recipe

Healthier Copycat of a DQ Favorite: If you’re a fan of the classic Dairy Queen Orange Julius, you’re in for a treat! This healthier version captures all the creamy, citrusy goodness you love without the guilt. By using natural sweeteners and wholesome ingredients, this copycat recipe delivers the same delightful flavor with a nutritious twist. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a nostalgic favorite while staying true to your health goals.

Naturally Sweetened: Unlike the original version, which relies on added sugars, this recipe uses a more natural sweetener like xylitol to give it that perfect sweetness. Plus, it’s packed with vitamin C from fresh oranges, and when you add in options like protein powder or chia seeds, you boost the nutritional value even further. It’s a drink that not only tastes great but also fuels your body with the nutrients it needs.

Less Than 10 Minutes: In today’s busy world, convenience is key, and this Orange Julius Copycat Recipe delivers just that. With minimal prep and a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious drink in less than 10 minutes. It’s an ideal choice for a quick breakfast on the go, a refreshing snack between meals, or even a fast dessert option when you’re craving something sweet but don’t have much time to spare.

Healthy Orange Julius Copycat Recipe

Substitutions

Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice from a citrus juicer works the best here, with the pulp removed. However, you can also use store-bought pulp-free orange juice.

Oat Milk: Try another plant-based milk of your choice, such as cashew milk, almond milk or even coconut milk. However, be aware that some non-dairy milks will impart an underlying flavor – coconut, for example. Some milks are sweetener than others as well (like oat milk is already sweetener than almond milk, even without the added sugar).

Opt for an unsweetened milk (check the ingredient label to make sure there is no added sugar) for a refined sugar-free recipe.

Powdered Xylitol: Xylitol is a type of sugar alcohol that is naturally found in various fruits and vegetables. It has about the same sweetness as regular sugar, but doesn’t cause spikes in blood sugar levels. You can find powdered xylitol at a health food store or in the natural items aisle at the grocery store, or make your own by blending together xylitol in a spice grinder until it becomes the consistency of powdered sugar. You can substitute with regular powdered sugar (made of white sugar) but it won’t be refined sugar-free.

Vanilla Extract: Opt for a higher-quality vanilla flavor or vanilla extract without caramel color or dyes. I choose a vanilla flavor from Simply Organic (that cannot legally be labeled as extract because it does not contain alcohol) and it tastes amazing. You can substitute any brand of vanilla extract or vanilla flavor.

Frozen Mango: Substitute with frozen pineapple chunks.

Dairy Queen Orange Julius Recipe Notes

  • If you’re using a standard blender, start with crushed ice for a smoother consistency. This will help the ingredients blend together more easily, giving you that perfect frothy texture.
  • To make your Orange Julius even more enjoyable, garnish with a slice of fresh orange. It adds a nice visual touch.

More Drink Recipes You’ll Love

Peach Green Tea

Orange Jalapeno Margarita Mocktail

Dark Chocolate Cherry Smoothie

Nutribullet Celery Juice

If you make this Dairy Queen Copycat Orange Julius Recipe, then leave a comment and star rating! Don’t forget to tag your photos @peanut_palate on Instagram. Enjoy!

Healthy Orange Julius Recipe (Dairy Queen Copycat)

Enjoy the popular Dairy Queen copycat Orange Julius recipe with a healthy twist – a creamy delight but made with wholesome ingredients!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 2 servings

Equipment

  • Citrus Juicer
  • High Speed Blender

Ingredients
  

  • cups freshly squeezed orange juice using a citrus juicer
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp powdered xylitol
  • ¼ cup ice cubes
  • ½ cup oat milk unsweetened
  • cup frozen mango chunks optional

Instructions
 

  • Blend together all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth. Include the optional mango chunks, if desired.
  • Pour into two glasses and serve cold. Enjoy!

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