The Ultimate Banana Split Fluff

Nostalgia in a Bowl: The Ultimate Banana Split Fluff

 

Take the classic flavors of a beloved ice cream parlor treat and transform them into a light, airy, and utterly delightful dessert salad with Banana Split Fluff. This creamy, no-bake confection is a vibrant medley of tropical fruit, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and nuts, all bound together in a luscious pudding base.

It’s the perfect dessert for potlucks, parties, or a sweet summertime craving. The Banana Split Fluff offers all the taste of a banana split without the melting ice cream, making it a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-prepare favorite.


 

Ingredients

 

The magic of Banana Split Fluff lies in its combination of creamy and fruity components.

  • 1 (3.4 ounce) box instant banana pudding
  • 1 (40 ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
  • 1 (8 ounce) tub Cool Whip, thawed
  • 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
  • 16 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained well (reserve some for topping)
  • ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
  • ½ cup chopped peanuts or walnuts (plus extra for topping)
  • Whipped cream, for topping
  • Sprinkles, for topping

 

Instructions

 

Preparing Banana Split Fluff is a simple process that requires no cooking, only mixing and chilling to achieve the perfect texture.

1. Prepare the Pudding Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and the undrained crushed pineapple. The pineapple juice will provide the necessary liquid to set the pudding, and the crushed pineapple adds texture and flavor. Stir until the pudding mix is completely dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken.

2. Fold in the Cool Whip

Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding and pineapple mixture. Continue folding until the mixture is light, creamy, and uniform in color.

3. Add the Mix-Ins

Gently fold in the sliced bananas, chopped strawberries, mini marshmallows, well-drained maraschino cherries, semisweet chocolate chips, and chopped peanuts or walnuts. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed in the fluff mixture.

4. Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Banana Split Fluff for at least 2–4 hours. This allows the pudding to set fully and the flavors to meld together.

5. Garnish and Serve

When ready to serve, scoop the fluff into a serving bowl or individual dishes. Top each serving generously with whipped cream, extra chocolate chips, extra chopped nuts, reserved maraschino cherries, and sprinkles.


 

Tips for the Perfect Fluff

 

  • Draining the Cherries: Ensure the maraschino cherries are drained very well (pat them dry with a paper towel if needed) before adding them to the fluff. Excess moisture can make the fluff watery, and the red liquid can discolor the dessert.
  • Preventing Banana Browning: While the bananas are folded into the fluff, the citric acid in the pineapple juice helps prevent browning. However, for the freshest look, slice the bananas just before folding them in.
  • Pudding Mix Varieties: While banana pudding mix provides the classic flavor, you can experiment with vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix for a slight variation.
  • Thawing Cool Whip: Ensure the Cool Whip is completely thawed before folding it in; otherwise, the mixture will be lumpy and dense.
  • Serving and Storage: This dessert is best enjoyed within 24 hours. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

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