Banana Pudding Fluff Salad

Category: Sweet Treats for Every Occasion

This Banana Pudding Fluff Salad is a quick and delicious no-bake dessert blending creamy pudding, soft bananas, and crunchy Nilla Wafers with the light texture of Cool Whip and mini marshmallows. It comes together in just 15 minutes—simply whisk the pudding with milk, fold in whipped topping, then add marshmallows, cookie pieces, and banana slices. Serve immediately for the freshest texture, as the bananas and wafers will soften over time. This chilled treat is perfect for gatherings and is an excellent alternative to classic banana desserts.

Updated on Mon, 26 May 2025 20:38:03 GMT
Easy Banana Pudding Fluff Salad Pin
Easy Banana Pudding Fluff Salad | lottirecipes.com

Banana Pudding Fluff Salad is my go to when I need a crowd pleasing dessert fast It brings together creamy pudding fresh bananas and that nostalgic crunch from Vanilla Wafers all with hardly any effort There is no baking fuss and it is always a hit at family parties and backyard barbecues

I first whipped this up at a last minute picnic and every spoonful vanished before I could even grab seconds Now it is one of my most requested desserts

Ingredients

  • Instant vanilla or banana pudding mix: The heart of the fluff salad Choose instant for best texture You can swap in a sugar free box if you like
  • Nonfat milk: This helps set the pudding and keeps things light Cold milk helps your pudding thicken properly
  • Cool Whip: This adds a fluffy creamy texture Make sure it is thawed and you can pick a sugar free version if that is your style
  • Mini marshmallows: They give the salad that fun bounce and sweetness Try to use fresh marshmallows for best flavor and softness
  • Vanilla Wafers broken into pieces: Classic flavor and crunch Go for a quality brand for best results and if you need a swap shortbread or butter cookies work well
  • Medium bananas: Sliced fresh right before adding Look for ripe but firm fruit for the best texture and sweet taste

Step by Step Instructions

Mix the Pudding:
In a large bowl whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until it is completely smooth Make sure there are no powdery spots Let the mixture sit undisturbed for about three minutes so it thickens up nicely
Fold in Cool Whip:
Gently stir in the Cool Whip until it is fully combined with the pudding The mixture should look thick and airy Take your time folding instead of stirring hard so things stay fluffy
Combine Dry Add Ins:
Add the mini marshmallows and broken Vanilla Wafers to the bowl Mix gently so you do not crush the cookies It helps to turn the mixture over slowly with a spatula
Add Bananas:
Slice the bananas just before adding them so they do not brown Quickly fold them into the salad making sure every piece is coated with fluffy pudding This will keep them fresh longer
Chill and Serve:
If you have time cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the fridge for thirty minutes to help flavors blend Serve the same day for freshest taste and texture since the bananas and cookies do soften over time
Easy Banana Pudding Fluff Salad Pin
Easy Banana Pudding Fluff Salad | lottirecipes.com

I am always amazed at how simple this is yet how much everyone loves it The bananas are my favorite part they bring a freshness and just the right bite of sweetness This recipe always reminds me of my grandma who loved anything with bananas

Storage Tips

This dessert is at its best the same day it is prepared Store any leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for up to twenty four hours After that the cookies get very soft and the bananas will brown quickly I recommend waiting to add bananas until just before serving if you want to keep leftovers a bit longer

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any vanilla or banana flavored instant pudding mix If you want a dairy free option several brands offer non dairy pudding and whipped topping Choose any crisp buttery cookie if you do not have Vanilla Wafers Shortbread or animal cookies are fun replacements

Serving Suggestions

Scoop the salad into individual dessert cups for easy serving at parties It looks beautiful topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra wafer crumbles This also makes a playful base for an ice cream sundae bar

Cultural and Historical Context

Fluff salads have a long tradition in American potluck culture combining pudding whipped topping and sweet add ins for a simple no bake treat Banana pudding holds a nostalgic spot in Southern kitchens This salad brings those flavors together in a totally fuss free way that is both retro and modern

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla?

Yes, both vanilla and banana flavored pudding mixes work well. Choose according to your taste preference or what's available.

→ How can I prevent the bananas from browning?

Slice and add bananas just before serving, and if desired, gently toss slices in lemon juice to slow oxidation.

→ Are there substitutes for Nilla Wafers?

Shortbread or butter cookies make great alternatives if Nilla Wafers aren't available or for variety.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

This dessert is best enjoyed the day it's made, as bananas brown and cookies soften when stored overnight.

→ Is it possible to make it sugar-free?

Choose sugar-free pudding mix and Cool Whip for a lighter version. Check your cookie choice as well for sugar content.

→ What other mix-ins can I add?

Mini chocolate chips, sliced strawberries, or chopped nuts can be added for new flavors and extra crunch.

Banana Pudding Fluff Salad

Fluffy pudding dessert layered with bananas, mini marshmallows, and crunchy vanilla wafers.

Preparation Time
15 mins
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 mins

Category: Desserts

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 portions)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Base mixture

01 1 box (96 g) instant vanilla or banana pudding mix, sugar-free optional
02 240 ml nonfat milk
03 1 container (227 g) whipped topping, sugar-free optional

→ Add-ins

04 3 cups (150 g) mini marshmallows
05 3 cups (135 g) Vanilla Wafers, broken into pieces
06 3 medium bananas, sliced

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix with nonfat milk until smooth. Allow mixture to stand for 3 minutes to thicken.

Step 02

Gently fold in whipped topping until fully combined with the pudding mixture.

Step 03

Stir in mini marshmallows, broken vanilla wafers, and sliced bananas until evenly distributed.

Step 04

Portion into bowls and serve the same day for best texture and flavour.

Additional Notes

  1. Serve immediately after preparation to prevent bananas from browning and cookies from becoming soggy.
  2. Shortbread or butter cookies may be used as an alternative to vanilla wafers if desired.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
  • Contains gluten, milk, and eggs; may also contain soy and tree nuts depending on ingredient brands.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 300
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 57 g
  • Proteins: 3 g