Description
Banana Split Fluff is a creamy, no-bake dessert salad that captures all the flavors of a classic banana split without the melting ice cream. This crowd-pleasing treat combines pudding, fresh fruit, marshmallows, nuts, and chocolate chips for a nostalgic, refreshing dessert perfect for potlucks, summer barbecues, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional; walnuts or pecans work best)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Maraschino cherries, for topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix with cold milk for two minutes until dissolved and starting to thicken. Let stand for 3-5 minutes.
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding base using a rubber spatula until well combined.
- Add mini marshmallows, drained crushed pineapple, and chopped strawberries to the mixture. Fold gently to distribute evenly.
- Carefully fold in the freshly sliced bananas, chopped nuts, and mini chocolate chips without breaking up the bananas.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or trifle bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Just before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries and an extra sprinkle of chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, serve well-chilled after at least one hour in the refrigerator.
- Slice bananas just before folding them in to prevent browning, or lightly toss them in lemon juice.
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent a watery dessert.
- Gently fold all ingredients to keep the fluff light and fluffy.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Avoid freezing as the texture will change upon thawing.
- For a make-ahead option, prepare without bananas and add them shortly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 200-250
- Sugar: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
- Fat: Moderate
- Saturated Fat: Not specified
- Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
- Trans Fat: Not specified
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
- Fiber: Minimal
- Protein: Small amount
- Cholesterol: Not specified
Keywords: banana split fluff, dessert salad, no-bake dessert, potluck dessert, easy dessert, banana pudding, summer dessert, fruit fluff