Description

This Banana Split Fluff Salad is a delightful, no-bake dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple and ripe bananas with creamy banana pudding and fluffy Cool Whip. Enhanced with mini marshmallows, walnuts, mini chocolate chips, and maraschino cherries, this refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, offering a nostalgic and colorful treat that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit & Pudding Mix

1 (3.4 ounce) box instant banana pudding
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple (do not drain)
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, halved

Dairy & Mix-ins

1 (8 ounce) container Cool Whip
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts, plus more for garnish
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

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Instructions

Combine Pudding and Pineapple: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and the crushed pineapple (with juice) until the mixture thickens, forming the flavorful base of the salad.
Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the Cool Whip into the banana pudding and pineapple mixture to create a light and fluffy texture without deflating the whipped topping.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the mini marshmallows, finely chopped walnuts, mini chocolate chips, sliced bananas, and halved maraschino cherries until everything is evenly incorporated, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set. Before serving, garnish with additional chopped walnuts if desired for extra crunch and presentation.

Notes

For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness in the salad.
You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds according to preference or allergy considerations.
Chilling the salad overnight will enhance the flavor infusion and texture.
This salad is best served cold and should be consumed within 2 days for freshness.
For a lower fat option, use light Cool Whip or reduced-fat pudding mix.