• Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the drained mandarin oranges and crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers. Set aside.
• Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined.
• Step 3: Fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
• Step 4: Pour the creamy dressing over the mandarin orange and cookie mixture, and gently fold to combine, ensuring the cookies are evenly coated.
• Step 5: Cover and refrigerate the mandarin orange cookie salad for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.