Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe
Introduction
Banana Split Fluff Salad is a light, fruity dessert that combines the classic flavors of a banana split with a creamy, fluffy texture. It’s perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any time you crave something refreshing and indulgent.

Ingredients
- 1 (3.4 ounces) box banana cream instant pudding
- 1 (20 ounces) can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 (10 ounces) jar maraschino cherries (without stems), drained and halved
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup miniature chocolate chips
- 2 bananas, halved and sliced
- 1 (8 ounces) container whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the banana cream instant pudding with the crushed pineapple, including the juice. Stir until the pudding mix is fully incorporated and begins to thicken.
- Step 2: Add the maraschino cherries, diced strawberries, miniature marshmallows, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and sliced bananas to the bowl. Stir gently until everything is evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Fold in half of the whipped topping carefully until mixed. Then add the remaining whipped topping and fold again until the mixture is fully combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the salad firm up.
- Step 5: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries if you like. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Swap the whipped topping for Greek yogurt or a light whipped topping alternative to make it healthier.
- Add tropical fruits like mango or mandarin oranges for extra flavor.
- Omit nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
- Use freshly whipped cream with vanilla and sugar instead of store-bought whipped topping.
- Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an indulgent finish.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown slightly, but the salad will still taste delicious. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping and fresh fruit don’t freeze well.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best made a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to blend, but try to eat it within 24-48 hours for the freshest taste.
What can I use instead of banana cream pudding?
Vanilla pudding works well as a substitute, providing a creamy texture with a slightly different flavor.
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Banana Split Fluff Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Banana Split Fluff Salad is a delightful, no-bake dessert combining banana cream pudding, crushed pineapple, fresh and jarred fruits, marshmallows, nuts, chocolate chips, and whipped topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, it offers a light, fluffy, and fruity treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 (3.4 ounces) box banana cream instant pudding
- 1 (20 ounces) can crushed pineapple with juice
Fruits and Mix-Ins
- 1 (10 ounces) jar maraschino cherries (without stems), drained and halved
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 2 bananas, halved and sliced
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup miniature chocolate chips
Topping
- 1 (8 ounces) container whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the banana cream instant pudding mix with the crushed pineapple and its juice. Stir well until the pudding mix is completely incorporated and the mixture begins to thicken.
- Add the Mix-Ins: Add the maraschino cherries, diced strawberries, miniature marshmallows, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and sliced bananas to the bowl. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Fold in the Whipped Topping: Carefully fold in half of the whipped topping until incorporated evenly. Then add the remaining whipped topping and fold again; avoid overmixing to maintain the salad’s light, fluffy texture.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up nicely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, gently stir the salad once more. Optionally, garnish with extra chocolate chips, nuts, or cherries. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.
Notes
- Make It Healthier: Substitute whipped topping with Greek yogurt or a light whipped topping alternative.
- Add More Fruit: Incorporate other tropical fruits such as mango chunks or mandarin orange segments for variety.
- Make It Nut-Free: Omit nuts or replace with sunflower seeds for crunch if allergic.
- Use Fresh Whipped Cream: Whip heavy cream with vanilla and sugar at home for a fresh homemade touch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance presentation and flavor by drizzling melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top.
- Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container up to 3 days; bananas may brown slightly but flavor remains good.
- Do not freeze this salad due to whipped topping and fresh fruit texture changes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: banana split fluff salad, banana pudding salad, easy no-bake dessert, summer fruit salad, whipped topping dessert, banana dessert recipe

