Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe

Introduction

Banana Split Fluff Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert that brings the flavors of a classic banana split into a light and fluffy salad. With fresh fruit, marshmallows, and a sweet pudding base, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or an easy sweet treat.

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 the mixture 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 gently to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
4. Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
5. Step 5: Before serving, stir the salad gently. Garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Swap the whipped topping for Greek yogurt or a light alternative to make it healthier.
• Add other tropical fruits like mango or mandarin oranges for extra flavor.
• Omit nuts or use sunflower seeds to make the salad nut-free.
• Use freshly whipped heavy cream with a bit of vanilla and sugar instead of store-bought topping for a homemade touch.
• Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an indulgent finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown slightly, but the salad will still taste great. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping and fresh fruit do not freeze well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best made a few hours ahead to allow flavors to blend, and is freshest when eaten within 24 to 48 hours.

What can I use instead of banana cream pudding?

Vanilla pudding works well as a substitute, providing creamy texture with a slightly different flavor.

How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

Toss sliced bananas with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad to slow browning.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Absolutely. Whip fresh cream to stiff peaks and fold it in for the best texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check the labels on pudding mix and packaged items to be sure.

Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.6 from 142 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Banana Split Fluff Salad is a light, creamy, and fruity dessert that combines banana cream pudding, fresh and canned fruits, marshmallows, nuts, and whipped topping. It’s a nostalgic and crowd-pleasing no-bake salad that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a simple sweet treat.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Mix

• 1 (3.4 ounces) box banana cream instant pudding

Fruit and Mix-ins

• 1 (20 ounces) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 (10 ounces) jar maraschino cherries (without stems), drained and halved
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 2 bananas, halved and sliced

Sweets

• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• ½ cup miniature chocolate chips

Dairy

• 1 (8 ounces) container whipped topping, thawed

---

Instructions

1. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the banana cream instant pudding with the crushed pineapple including the juice. Stir well until the pudding mix is fully incorporated and the mixture begins to thicken.
2. Add the Mix-Ins: 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 throughout the mixture.
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until evenly mixed to maintain lightness. Then add the remaining whipped topping and fold again until fully combined. Avoid overmixing to preserve the fluffy texture.
4. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up nicely.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Optionally garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries. Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful treat.

Notes

• Make It Healthier: Substitute the whipped topping with Greek yogurt or a lighter whipped topping alternative.
• Add More Fruit: Include other tropical fruits such as mango or mandarin oranges for extra flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts if allergic or replace with sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Use Fresh Whipped Cream: Whip heavy cream with vanilla and sugar for a homemade whipped topping.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top for indulgence.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as texture will degrade.
• Prevent Banana Browning: Toss sliced bananas in lemon juice before adding to salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: banana split fluff salad, banana cream pudding dessert, no bake fruit salad, fluff salad, easy dessert, summer dessert