Name: Banana Split Fluff Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 box (3.4 ounces instant banana pudding); 1 can (20 ounces crushed pineapple, undrained); 1 container (8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed); 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts; 2 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts for garnish; 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips for garnish; 2 ripe bananas (sliced); 2 jars (10 ounces each maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry)

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Whip up my Banana Split Fluff Salad, a creamy, no-bake Summer Dessert that transforms the classic banana split into a spoonable delight! Packed with banana pudding, sweet pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, and colorful toppings like bananas, cherries, and chocolate chips, this vibrant treat comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Split Fluff Salad

I love this Banana Split Fluff Salad because it’s a quick, no-bake Summer Dessert that’s ready in 15 minutes with minimal effort. Using simple ingredients, it’s light, fluffy, and feeds a crowd, making it ideal for summer barbecues or parties. I first made this when my ice cream maker failed at a family event, and it was such a hit that it’s now a staple at every gathering—kids call it “ice cream salad”!

Ingredients for Banana Split Fluff Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Banana Split Fluff Salad (serves 8):

1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
1 cup mini marshmallows
½ cup chopped walnuts (plus 2 tbsp for garnish)
½ cup mini chocolate chips (plus 2 tbsp for garnish)
2 ripe bananas, sliced
½ cup maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

Ingredient Tips:

Banana Pudding Mix: Forms a creamy base; use instant for quick prep.
Crushed Pineapple: Undrained juice helps activate the pudding; canned works best.
Cool Whip: Full-fat ensures fluffiness; thaw in fridge for easy folding.
Bananas: Choose ripe but firm with brown spots for sweetness without mushiness.
Cherries: Pat dry to prevent pink streaks in the salad.

Directions for Banana Split Fluff Salad

Prepare Pudding Base

I mix 1 package of instant banana pudding with 1 can of undrained crushed pineapple in a large bowl, stirring for 2 minutes until the pudding dissolves and thickens, creating a flavorful base for this Banana Split Fluff Salad.

Fold in Cool Whip

I gently fold in 1 tub of thawed Cool Whip with a rubber spatula, using about 20 slow folds to keep the mixture light and fluffy, ensuring a perfect Summer Dessert texture.

Add Mix-Ins

I carefully stir in 1 cup mini marshmallows, ½ cup chopped walnuts, ½ cup mini chocolate chips, 2 sliced bananas, and ½ cup maraschino cherries, combining gently to maintain fluffiness and prevent banana browning.

Chill

I cover and refrigerate the Banana Split Fluff Salad for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and the salad set.

Garnish and Serve

Before serving, I sprinkle 2 tbsp each of reserved walnuts and chocolate chips on top for crunch and appeal. I scoop into bowls or dessert glasses and serve chilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 48g carbs, 4g protein, 14g fat, 2g fiber

Variations for Banana Split Fluff Salad

I love customizing this Banana Split Fluff Salad for variety. Here are some ideas:

Flavor Swap: Use vanilla or chocolate pudding mix for a different base.
Nut Options: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or crushed granola for crunch.
Tropical Twist: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut or replace pineapple with mandarin oranges.
Berry Boost: Mix in ½ cup fresh strawberries or raspberries instead of cherries.
Drizzle: Top with a chocolate or caramel syrup drizzle for extra decadence.

Storage

I enjoy Banana Split Fluff Salad within 24 hours for the freshest taste, as bananas may brown over time. I store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the texture may become denser. For make-ahead, I prepare everything except bananas and cherries, folding them in just before serving to maintain freshness.

FAQs:

Can I make Banana Split Fluff Salad ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare it a few hours ahead, adding bananas and garnish just before serving to keep them fresh.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip for this Summer Dessert?
I use stabilized whipped cream for a homemade option, though it may be slightly less firm.

Can I omit the nuts in Banana Split Fluff Salad?
Yes, I skip nuts or use crushed cookies or granola for a nut-free crunch.

How do I prevent bananas from browning?
I toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad to slow browning.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, I use 2 cups fresh pineapple with ¼ cup juice or water to blend with the pudding mix.

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Conclusion

This Banana Split Fluff Salad is a fun, creamy Summer Dessert that I love for its quick prep and vibrant flavors, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Its fluffy texture and colorful mix-ins make every bite a tropical delight that’s sure to please all ages. Try this no-bake recipe, share your creations on social media, and explore more delicious ideas at Food and Tips. It’s bound to be a hit at your next event!