Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe

Introduction

Banana Split Fluff Salad is a delightful, light dessert that combines the flavors of a classic banana split with a fluffy, creamy texture. It’s perfect for family gatherings or as a refreshing treat on a warm day.

Ingredients

• 1 (3.4 ounces) box banana cream instant pudding
• 1 (20 ounces) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 (10 ounces) jar maraschino cherries (without stems), drained and halved
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• ½ cup miniature chocolate chips
• 2 bananas, halved and sliced
• 1 (8 ounces) container whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the banana cream instant pudding with the crushed pineapple, including the juice. Stir until the pudding mix is fully incorporated and begins to thicken.
2. Step 2: Add the maraschino cherries, diced strawberries, miniature marshmallows, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and sliced bananas to the bowl. Stir gently until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Step 3: Fold in half of the whipped topping carefully until evenly mixed. Then add the remaining whipped topping and fold again until fully combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
4. Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
5. Step 5: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For added crunch, toast the nuts lightly before mixing them in.
• Try swapping walnuts for pecans or even chopped almonds based on your preference.
• Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a fresher taste.
• Substitute frozen whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a richer flavor.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, stir gently to restore the fluffy texture. It is best enjoyed chilled, and reheating is not recommended.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight as the flavors have time to meld together.

Can I use fresh bananas instead of pre-sliced?

Absolutely. Slice the bananas right before mixing to prevent browning and maintain freshness.

Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 149 reviews

This Banana Split Fluff Salad is a vibrant and delightful dessert salad that combines the creamy sweetness of banana cream pudding with fresh fruit, marshmallows, nuts, and whipped topping. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing treat, this no-cook recipe blends classic banana split flavors into a light, fluffy salad that’s easy to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults alike.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 1 (3.4 ounces) box banana cream instant pudding
• ½ cup miniature marshmallows
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• ½ cup miniature chocolate chips

Fruit

• 1 (20 ounces) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 (10 ounces) jar maraschino cherries (without stems), drained and halved
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
• 2 bananas, halved and sliced

Dairy

• 1 (8 ounces) container whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

1. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the banana cream instant pudding mix with the crushed pineapple, including the juice. Stir thoroughly until the pudding is fully dissolved and begins to thicken, creating a smooth base for the salad.
2. Add the Mix-Ins: Add the maraschino cherries, diced strawberries, miniature marshmallows, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and sliced bananas to the pudding mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping to the mixture until it’s evenly incorporated. Then add the remaining whipped topping and carefully fold it in to maintain the salad’s light and fluffy texture without overmixing.
4. Chill: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. This chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps the salad firm up to a perfect consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Optionally garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries for added presentation and flavor. Serve the salad chilled and enjoy this refreshing and nostalgic treat!

Notes

• For best texture, use fresh bananas that are ripe but firm to avoid browning and mushiness.
• Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed before folding it into the salad to ensure a smooth texture.
• Feel free to substitute nuts or chocolate chips with your preferred variety or omit for allergies.
• This salad is best served within 24 hours of preparation for optimal freshness.
• Keep the salad refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain flavor and texture.

Keywords: Banana Split Fluff Salad, banana cream pudding salad, no-bake dessert salad, fruit fluff salad, easy banana dessert, picnic salad recipe