Banana Split Fluff is a delightful and easy dessert that combines all the classic flavors of a banana split into a creamy and fluffy treat. This dish is perfect for parties, picnics, or any occasion where you want to impress with very little effort. With its mix of fruits, marshmallows, and a rich pudding base, everyone is sure to love this sweet indulgence.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Banana Split Fluff! First, it requires minimal cooking and can be prepared in a flash. Second, it brings the beloved banana split dessert into a shareable format that feels fun and festive. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines fresh fruit and creamy goodness, making it a great treat for people of all ages.
How to Make Banana Split Fluff
Ingredients:
- 1 box Instant banana pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
- 1 can Crushed pineapple (40 ounces, undrained)
- 1 tub Cool Whip (8 ounces, thawed)
- 3 large Ripe bananas, sliced
- 16 ounces Fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 4 cups Mini marshmallows
- 1 jar Maraschino cherries (10 ounces, drained) (Reserve some for topping)
- 1/2 cup Semisweet chocolate chips (Plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup Chopped peanuts or walnuts (Plus extra for topping)
- to taste Whipped cream (For topping)
- to taste Sprinkles (For topping)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and the juice from the undrained crushed pineapple until the mixture becomes smooth and thickened.
- Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until you have a smooth, creamy base.
- Add the sliced bananas, hulled and chopped strawberries, mini marshmallows, maraschino cherries, semisweet chocolate chips, and chopped peanuts or walnuts into the bowl.
- Using a rubber spatula, gently fold everything together until every piece of fruit and marshmallow is coated in the creamy banana pudding mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or until well chilled.
- Before serving, garnish with extra chocolate chips, chopped nuts, reserved cherries, generous dollops of whipped cream, and lots of fun sprinkles. Serve cold.
How to Serve Banana Split Fluff
Banana Split Fluff is best served cold. You can use a large serving dish to scoop out the fluff, or individual cups for a more personal touch. Make sure to add extra toppings like whipped cream, chocolate chips, and sprinkles just before serving for a fun and festive presentation.
How to Store Banana Split Fluff
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the fruit may release some juice and the texture may change slightly.
Tips to Make Banana Split Fluff
- Make sure your Cool Whip is completely thawed; this will help create a smooth mixture.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or fruits for a personalized twist.
- If you want a richer flavor, you can use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
Variation
For a different spin, try using vanilla or chocolate pudding instead of banana. You can also swap out the fruits based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to blend it well to get the right consistency.
2. How long can I keep Banana Split Fluff in the fridge?
It can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Banana Split Fluff is perfect to make a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Banana Split Fluff
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 box Instant banana pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
- 1 can Crushed pineapple (40 ounces, undrained)
- 1 tub Cool Whip (8 ounces, thawed) Make sure it is completely thawed.
Fruit and Toppings
- 3 large Ripe bananas, sliced
- 16 ounces Fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 4 cups Mini marshmallows
- 1 jar Maraschino cherries (10 ounces, drained) Reserve some for topping.
- ½ cup Semisweet chocolate chips Plus extra for topping.
- ½ cup Chopped peanuts or walnuts Plus extra for topping.
- to taste Whipped cream For topping.
- to taste Sprinkles For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and the juice from the undrained crushed pineapple until smooth and thickened.
- Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until you have a smooth, creamy base.
- Add the sliced bananas, hulled and chopped strawberries, mini marshmallows, maraschino cherries, semisweet chocolate chips, and chopped peanuts or walnuts into the bowl.
- Using a rubber spatula, gently fold everything together until every piece of fruit and marshmallow is coated in the creamy banana pudding mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or until well chilled.
Serving
- Before serving, garnish with extra chocolate chips, chopped nuts, reserved cherries, generous dollops of whipped cream, and lots of fun sprinkles. Serve cold.
