Looking for a quick, creamy, and crowd-pleasing dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort? This Banana Split Fluff Salad is the ultimate no-bake treat. Inspired by the classic ice cream parlor favorite, this light and fluffy dessert blends bananas, strawberries, pineapple, marshmallows, and chocolate into one irresistibly creamy bowl.

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Perfect for potlucks, summer parties, family gatherings, or last-minute desserts, this recipe comes together in minutes and chills to perfection. Every spoonful is sweet, fruity, and delightfully nostalgic.

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Ingredients

1 (3.4 oz) box banana cream instant pudding mix
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, with juice
1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
1 cup mini marshmallows
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
½ cup mini chocolate chips
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

Prepare the Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the banana cream pudding mix and crushed pineapple (juice included) until smooth and thickened.
Add the Mix-Ins
Gently stir in cherries, strawberries, marshmallows, nuts, chocolate chips, and banana slices until evenly combined.
Fold in the Whipped Topping
Carefully fold in half of the whipped topping. Add the remaining half and fold just until light and fluffy.
Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to blend and texture to set.
Serve
Stir lightly before serving. Garnish with extra chocolate chips or cherries if desired.

Pro Tips

Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture
Fold gently to keep the salad fluffy
Chill longer for a thicker, scoopable consistency
Add bananas just before chilling to reduce browning

Why This Recipe Works

✔ No baking required
✔ Classic dessert flavors in one bowl
✔ Perfect for feeding a crowd
✔ Kid-friendly and party-approved
✔ Ready with simple pantry ingredients

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Substitutions & Variations

Pudding Swap: Use vanilla pudding if banana isn’t available
Nut-Free: Omit nuts or replace with crushed cookies
Extra Fruit: Add mandarin oranges or blueberries
Homemade Whipped Cream: Use freshly whipped cream for a richer taste

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating: Not required
Freezing: Not recommended due to texture changes

Serving Ideas

Serve in dessert cups for parties
Top with chocolate syrup or caramel drizzle
Pair with grilled summer meals
Add crushed waffle cones for crunch

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~280
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g

Values are estimates and may vary.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a few hours ahead and served chilled.

How do I prevent bananas from browning?

Lightly toss banana slices with lemon juice before adding.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead?

Absolutely. Whip to stiff peaks for best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free; always check labels.

Can I skip the nuts?

Yes, the recipe works perfectly without them.

This Banana Split Fluff Salad is creamy, colorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a no-fuss dessert, this recipe delivers classic flavors with modern convenience. One bowl is never enough.