Description
Craving a dessert that’s vibrant, creamy, and bursting with retro flavor? This Tang Pie is a no-bake treat that combines the tangy, citrusy kick of Tang orange drink mix with creamy sweetened condensed milk and cream cheese, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
With just six ingredients, this recipe is all about simplicity and bold, citrusy flavor. Use a quality graham cracker crust and fresh Tang for the best results.
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½ cup (50 g) orange-flavored drink mix (e.g., Tang): Provides the signature tangy, orange flavor.
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1 (14-ounce / 397 g) can sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness and structure.
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1 (8-ounce / 226 g) package cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, smooth filling.
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1 (9-inch / 23 cm) prepared graham cracker crust: Offers a crunchy, buttery base.
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1 (8-ounce / 226 g) container frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided: Adds lightness to the filling and a fluffy garnish.
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8 mandarin orange segments: Provide a fresh, decorative touch for garnish.
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Substitutions and Variations:
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese, coconut condensed milk, and dairy-free whipped topping.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the graham cracker crust for a gluten-free version or make a crust with crushed gluten-free cookies.
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Lower Sugar: Use sugar-free Tang and reduce sweetened condensed milk to 300 g, supplementing with 100 g dairy-free milk.
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Flavor Twist: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest to the filling for extra citrus zing or substitute Tang with another citrus drink mix (e.g., lemonade or tangerine).
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Fruit Swap: Garnish with fresh orange slices, raspberries, or pineapple chunks instead of mandarin segments.
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Why These Ingredients Matter: The Tang mix delivers a nostalgic, tangy flavor, the cream cheese and condensed milk create a creamy, rich filling, and the whipped topping adds lightness, all balanced by the crunchy graham crust.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
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In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup orange-flavored drink mix (e.g., Tang), 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk, and 1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese.
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Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until well combined and smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
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Fold in 2 cups (about half) of the thawed whipped topping with a spatula until no streaks remain, keeping the mixture light and airy.
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Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps, and fold gently to maintain the whipped topping’s volume.
Step 2: Assemble the Pie
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Pour the filling into the 9-inch prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to reach the edges.
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Tip: Tap the pie gently on the counter to remove air bubbles and ensure a smooth surface.
Step 3: Chill
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Cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until firm. For best results, chill for 2–3 hours.
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Tip: A longer chill time helps the filling set fully, making it easier to slice.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
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Spread or pipe the remaining whipped topping (about 1 cup) over the chilled pie for a decorative finish.
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Garnish with 8 mandarin orange segments, arranging them evenly around the top.
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Slice and serve chilled.
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Tip: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean slices, and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.