Here’s a fun, fruity, and nostalgic Banana Split Fluff Salad—a creamy dessert salad packed with all the flavors of a banana split: pineapple, cherries, bananas, and chocolate, all folded into a sweet, fluffy base. It’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or whenever you want a crowd-pleasing treat!
🍌 Banana Split Fluff Salad
📝 Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix (dry, not prepared)
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 medium bananas, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup chopped strawberries (optional, but classic)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4–1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
🥣 Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Crushed pineapple (with juice)
- Instant pudding mix
Let it sit for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.
2. Fold in Cool Whip:
Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined and creamy.
3. Add the Fun Stuff:
Stir in:
- Sliced bananas
- Cherries
- Strawberries (if using)
- Mini marshmallows
- Nuts
- Chocolate chips
4. Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4) to let flavors meld and salad firm up.
🍒 To Serve:
Top with extra cherries, a sprinkle of nuts or chocolate chips, and even a drizzle of chocolate syrup or whipped cream if you’re going all out.
✅ Tips:
- Add bananas right before serving to prevent browning (or toss them in lemon juice).
- For a lighter version, use light Cool Whip and low-fat condensed milk.
- Make it a party bowl by layering it in a trifle dish!