A Creamy, Fruity Twist on the Classic Dessert – No Baking Required!
This Banana Split Fluff transforms the iconic sundae into a light, fluffy dessert salad packed with pineapple, bananas, strawberries, and a dreamy creamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a fun family treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No-bake & easy – Ready in 15 minutes flat
All the classic flavors – Bananas, pineapple, strawberries & more
Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins
Crowd-pleasing – Kids and adults go crazy for it
Ingredients
(Serves 8-10)
Main Components
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups diced fresh strawberries
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana or vanilla pudding mix (dry)
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Optional Mix-Ins & Toppings
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- ½ cup chocolate chips or sprinkles
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Fruit
- Drain pineapple well (press in sieve to remove excess juice)
- Slice strawberries and bananas (toss bananas with 1 tsp lemon juice to prevent browning if making ahead)
2. Make the Fluff Base
- In large bowl, whisk dry pudding mix into whipped topping until smooth
- Gently fold in:
- Drained pineapple
- Strawberries
- Bananas
- Marshmallows
3. Add Extras & Chill
- Fold in any optional mix-ins (nuts, cherries, etc.)
- Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra fruit, nuts or chocolate chips
- Serve chilled in bowls or as a dip with vanilla wafers
Pro Tips
Better draining – Let pineapple sit in sieve 15+ minutes
Banana trick – Add them just before serving for best texture
Flavor boost – Use chocolate pudding mix instead
Lighter option – Substitute with sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping
Make-Ahead & Storage
Prep ahead – Mix everything except bananas up to 24 hours in advance
Freezing – Not recommended (texture changes)
Leftovers – Keep covered in fridge up to 2 days
Serving Suggestions
Sundae style – Scoop over pound cake or ice cream
Breakfast parfait – Layer with granola and yogurt
Cake filling – Use between yellow cake layers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?
A: Yes! Use 1½ cups finely diced, drained well
Q: How do I prevent soggy fluff?
A: Drain fruits thoroughly and don’t overmix
Q: What if I don’t have pudding mix?
A: Substitute with ¼ cup powdered sugar + 1 tsp vanilla
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use coconut whipped topping and vegan pudding
Final Thoughts
This Banana Split Fluff is summer’s easiest crowd-pleasing dessert! With its creamy texture and bursts of fruity flavor, it delivers all the nostalgia of an ice cream parlor banana split without the mess.
PrintBanana Split Fluff Salad
- Total Time: 30 mins
Description
Indulge in the creamy, fruity delight of Banana Split Fluff! This no-bake dessert is packed with all the flavors of a classic banana split, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
1 cup chopped strawberries
2 bananas, sliced
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and crushed pineapple (including juice). Stir until the pudding mix is fully dissolved.
Add the chopped strawberries, sliced bananas, mini marshmallows, and chopped walnuts to the bowl. Mix gently to combine.
Fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is well blended and fluffy.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled, garnished with maraschino cherries on top.
Enjoy this fun and delicious Banana Split Fluff that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a sweet treat anytime!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
