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Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe

4.6 from 59 reviews

This Banana Split Fluff Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert that combines the classic flavors of a banana split in a light and fluffy pudding salad. It features banana pudding, crushed pineapple, Cool Whip, mini marshmallows, chopped walnuts, mini chocolate chips, ripe bananas, and maraschino cherries. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 13.4 ounce box instant banana pudding
  • 120 ounce can crushed pineapple (do not drain)
  • 18 ounce container Cool Whip, thawed

Add-ins

  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts + 2 Tablespoons for garnish
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips + 1 Tablespoon for garnish
  • 2 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 210 ounce jars maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry

Instructions

  1. Prepare pudding mix: Stir together the dry banana pudding mix and the entire can of crushed pineapple (with juice) until the mixture dissolves and thickens, creating a smooth base.
  2. Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding and pineapple mixture with a spatula until fully incorporated and fluffy.
  3. Mix in add-ins: Carefully stir in the mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips, sliced bananas, and halved maraschino cherries, mixing evenly without breaking the fruit.
  4. Chill: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
  5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of walnuts and 1 tablespoon of mini chocolate chips on top for added texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately after garnishing.

Notes

  • For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and mushiness.
  • Do not drain the canned pineapple to maintain moisture and flavor in the salad.
  • Can be prepared a day in advance; store covered in the refrigerator.
  • For a nut-free version, omit walnuts or substitute with chopped pecans or sunflower seeds.
  • To keep bananas from browning quickly, toss them lightly with lemon juice before adding.

Keywords: Banana Split Fluff Salad, banana pudding salad, no bake dessert, fluffy fruit salad, picnic desserts, easy banana dessert