Dissolve the Jell-O:

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the orange Jell-O powder with 1 cup boiling water until completely dissolved (about 2 minutes).

Cool Down:

Add 1/2 cup cold water and whisk to combine. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to slightly cool.

Whisk in the Pudding:

Add the instant vanilla pudding mix to the slightly cooled Jell-O mixture. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. The mixture will begin to thicken.

Fold in the Cool Whip:

Once the mixture is thickened and cool to the touch, gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully blended. The texture should be creamy and fluffy.

Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the salad for at least 1–2 hours, or until fully set and chilled. Serve cold as a dessert or sweet side.