Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe

Introduction

Banana Split Fluff Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert that combines the fruity flavors of a classic banana split in a light, fluffy salad form. It’s easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year.

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 everything together until evenly distributed.
3. Step 3: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until evenly mixed. Then add the remaining whipped topping and fold again until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the 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, give the salad a gentle stir. Garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh bananas and strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Swap out walnuts for pecans depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
• For added color and taste, fold in some diced kiwi or mandarin oranges.
• To make it nut-free, simply omit the nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bananas may brown over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If the salad thickens after chilling, stir gently before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture will change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Banana Split Fluff Salad in advance?

Yes, it tastes great when made a few hours ahead. Just cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. For best texture, consume within 1-2 days.

Can I substitute the whipped topping?

You can use homemade whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping alternative if preferred. Just be sure it’s thawed and fluffy for folding into the salad.

Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 105 reviews

This Banana Split Fluff Salad is a delightful and creamy dessert salad that combines the classic flavors of a banana split into a light, fluffy, and easy-to-make treat. With layers of banana cream pudding, crushed pineapple, fresh strawberries, maraschino cherries, marshmallows, nuts, and chocolate chips folded into whipped topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, parties, or a refreshing summer dessert.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pudding Base

• 1 (3.4 ounces) box banana cream instant pudding
• 1 (20 ounces) can crushed pineapple with juice

Fruit and Mix-Ins

• 1 (10 ounces) jar maraschino cherries (without stems), drained and halved
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
• 2 bananas, halved and sliced
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows

Add-ins

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• ½ cup miniature chocolate chips

Final Ingredient

• 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 carefully until all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the pudding base.
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping into the mixture until evenly incorporated. Then add the remaining whipped topping and fold again carefully to maintain the fluffiness and light texture of the salad.
4. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up for the best texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, gently stir the salad one last time. Optionally garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing and delicious banana split inspired dessert salad!

Notes

• Use ripe bananas but not overly soft to avoid mushiness.
• Chill well to achieve the ideal creamy texture.
• You can substitute pecans with walnuts or your preferred nut.
• For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts.
• Whipped topping can be replaced with freshly whipped heavy cream for a homemade touch.
• Best served within 24 hours for freshness, but can be stored up to 2 days covered in the refrigerator.

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