Copycat Orange Julius Smoothie – this easy Ninja Creami recipe is a homemade take on the classic Orange Julius, blending citrusy goodness with a creamy texture!

A spoon scooping out a creamy, white mixture from a clear jar placed on a wooden surface. Orange slices and a white cloth are partially visible in the background.

There’s something about summer time that makes us crave nostalgic flavors, and this Copycat Orange Julius Smoothie hits the spot every time.

Whether it’s the citrusy freshness reminding us of winter oranges or the creamy texture feeling like a cozy treat, this is one of our favorite sweet sips during summer. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and perfect for sharing with family and friends on the patio!

Too busy to make this right away? Pin it for later! Pin this post to your favorite board on Pinterest and it will be there when you’re ready!

A spoon scooping creamy, light-colored sorbet from a clear container. The container is filled close to the max fill line. In the background, there are slices of an orange and a white cloth on a wooden surface.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is like a trip to the mall food court—without the long lines! It’s packed with bright, refreshing orange flavor and a creamy vanilla twist, all made in the Ninja Creami.

A spoonful of creamy, light-colored sorbet is held above a clear container filled with the same dessert. Fresh orange slices and a white napkin are nearby on a wooden surface.

With just five simple ingredients, you get a sweet, creamy and slightly frosty treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert or an after school pick-me-up for the kids.

It’s a budget friendly alternative to store bought smoothies and you can tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

Orange juice – the key to that citrus-y flavour! We use fresh, unsweetened orange juice without pulp.
Milk – this adds creaminess and a smooth texture. I often substitute our favorite vanilla Premier Protein shake for a 30 gram protein boost!
Granulated white sugar – to add sweetness to the mix. You can omit this if your orange juice already has added sugar.
Vanilla instant pudding mix – this helps create that thick, velvety consistency.
Vanilla extract – enhances the sweet, dessert-like taste.

A clear bowl filled with frothy, creamy liquid reminiscent of a copycat Orange Julius recipe sits on a wooden surface. A metal measuring spoon with a wooden handle rests nearby.

Instructions

Combine ingredients into the Ninja Creami pint container, mix until dissolved.
Freeze container on a flat, level surface for 24 hours or until frozen solid.
Remove from the freezer, run under hot water for 30 seconds and take off the lid. Place container into the outer bowl of the Ninja Creami, then lock the outer bowl lid into place.
Secure the outer bowl into the Ninja Creami machine. Press the Lite Ice Cream button and allow the cycle to complete.

A close-up of creamy, whipped mashed potatoes inside a clear mixing bowl, set on a light wooden surface. The texture appears smooth and fluffy, with a slightly uneven surface.

5. Remove the outer bowl lid. If ice cream is still powdery, add a splash of milk then add back to machine and press the Milkshake button.

6. Remove the lid and enjoy!

A creamy orange smoothie in a clear cup is garnished with a slice of orange. Two white straws are in the drink. A silver spoon and a halved orange are beside the cup on a light wooden surface.

Tips & Tricks

Want ultra-creamy ice cream? Add ½ teaspoon xanthan gum before freezing to maintain texture.
Place the pint on a flat, level surface in your freezer to prevent freezing at an angle.
If the ice cream is too hard, use the Re-spin function for a softer consistency.
Let the frozen pint sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or run under hot water for 30 seconds before spinning to prevent icy chunks.
If a dome forms on top while freezing, try freezing without the lid or scrape off any excess before spinning to protect your blades.
If you’re looking to reduce sugar content, consider using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or a sugar substitute like monk fruit.

Be sure to check out my Guide to Perfect Ninja Creami Recipes where I share more in-depth details!

A spoon is lifting a portion of creamy, textured mixture from a clear container filled with a light beige, smooth substance. The container has MAX FILL marked on the side. A wooden surface and an orange are partially visible in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe even higher in protein?
Use Premier Protein shakes or Fairlife milk instead of regular milk or cream. You can also mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder before freezing!

When should I use regular mode vs. lite mode?
Regular mode is for higher-fat recipes with a cream base, while Lite mode works best for lower-fat treats like sorbets and protein-based ice creams.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

You bet! Simply add the orange juice to coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. The consistency will be different than the original though.

How should I store Ninja Creami leftovers?
Flatten the top before refreezing in the pint or an airtight container. If it hardens too much, reprocess it using the same mode you originally used.

A creamy orange smoothie is in a clear plastic cup with two white straws. An orange slice garnishes the rim. A spoon and a half orange are nearby on a wooden surface. A textured white cloth is in the background.

Looking For More Copycat Recipes?

Try these teenager approved Ninja Creami copycats…

Or sign up for my FREE Copycat Ninja Creami Recipes eBook and I’ll send you a copy! You are then registered for my weekly Newsletter full of fun recipes and inspiring ideas.

A close-up of a creamy, orange-colored dessert in a blender cup. A spoon holds a scoop above the cup. Text on the image reads Copycat High Protein Ninja Creami Orange Julius Recipe and homemadeheather.com.

Enjoy this creamy, dreamy Copycat Orange Julius Smoothie straight from your Ninja Creami! If you love this recipe, please click on the stars in the recipe card below to give it a five star rating and help me share it on Facebook or Pinterest.