Banana Split Fluff 🍌🍓🍒

Banana Split Fluff is the ultimate dessert mash-up, combining all the best elements of a classic banana split into a creamy, fruity, and fluffy treat! With ripe bananas, strawberries, chocolate chips, and marshmallows folded into a delicious banana pudding mixture, this is an easy no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any gathering or celebration.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love Banana Split Fluff

This dessert is a fun, no-fuss option for any party or family get-together. It’s packed with fresh fruit, sweet marshmallows, and a creamy banana pudding base that brings the nostalgic flavors of a traditional banana split right to your table. Plus, the recipe is simple and quick, making it an excellent make-ahead option that requires minimal effort.

Ingredient Breakdown

1. Instant Banana Pudding (3.4 oz box)

The banana pudding mix forms the creamy base for this dessert. It brings a delightful banana flavor while also thickening the mixture.

• Tip: Make sure to mix the pudding with the juice from the crushed pineapple instead of milk to get the right consistency and flavor.

2. Crushed Pineapple (40 oz can, undrained)

The juice from the crushed pineapple helps hydrate the pudding mix, while the pineapple pieces add sweetness and texture.

• Tip: Don’t drain the pineapple—its juice is crucial for flavor and consistency!

3. Cool Whip (8 oz tub, thawed)

Cool Whip adds a light, fluffy texture and creaminess to the mixture.

• Tip: You can substitute with homemade whipped cream for a more natural flavor if desired.

4. Bananas (3 large, sliced)

Bananas bring that classic flavor you expect in a banana split, plus they add creaminess to every bite.

• Tip: Choose ripe but firm bananas to ensure they hold their shape in the fluff.

5. Strawberries (16 oz, hulled and chopped)

Fresh strawberries add a burst of juicy, sweet-tart flavor, complementing the richness of the pudding mix.

6. Mini Marshmallows (4 cups)

Marshmallows give the dessert its signature fluffiness and add a fun, chewy texture.

7. Maraschino Cherries (10 oz jar, drained)

The cherries bring a sweet, slightly tangy pop of flavor. Reserve a few to garnish the top for that traditional banana split look.

8. Semisweet Chocolate Chips (½ cup + extra for topping)

Chocolate chips add that essential chocolatey note that rounds out the banana split experience.

9. Chopped Nuts (½ cup + extra for topping)

Use peanuts or walnuts to add crunch and nutty flavor, giving the fluff a great contrast in texture.

10. Whipped Cream & Sprinkles (for topping)

To finish off the dessert, whipped cream and sprinkles bring a fun, colorful presentation that will remind everyone of an old-fashioned banana split.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Banana Split Fluff

Step 1: Mix the Banana Pudding Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and the juice from the crushed pineapple until smooth and thickened. This creates the sweet, banana-flavored base for the dessert.

Step 2: Fold in Cool Whip

Once the pudding mixture is thickened, gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated. The Cool Whip adds a light and fluffy texture to the pudding, making the base smooth and airy.

• Tip: Be gentle when folding the Cool Whip to keep the fluff light and avoid deflating the mixture.

Step 3: Add Fruits, Marshmallows, and Mix-ins

Next, gently fold in the sliced bananas, chopped strawberries, mini marshmallows, maraschino cherries, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts. Stir carefully to coat everything evenly with the banana pudding mixture.

• Tip: If you want to avoid mushy bananas, you can fold them in right before serving instead of adding them now.

Step 4: Chill the Fluff

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 2-4 hours. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and gives the dessert time to set, making it easier to scoop and serve.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the Banana Split Fluff with extra chocolate chips, chopped nuts, maraschino cherries, dollops of whipped cream, and a generous sprinkling of sprinkles for a festive, fun look.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Party Dessert

This Banana Split Fluff is ideal for potlucks, barbecues, and birthday parties! Serve it in a large bowl with a serving spoon, and let guests scoop their own portions.

2. In Individual Cups

For a fun presentation, serve the fluff in individual dessert cups or bowls, topped with extra whipped cream, cherries, and sprinkles.

3. As a Make-Ahead Treat

Since this dessert needs a few hours to set, it’s a great option to make ahead of time. You can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before serving.

Customizing Your Banana Split Fluff

This dessert is easy to customize to your preferences or dietary needs:

1. Add More Toppings

Get creative with your toppings! Try adding chocolate syrup, caramel drizzle, or even a few scoops of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat.

2. Swap Fruits

You can swap out the strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or any other fruit you love in your banana split.

3. Go Nut-Free

If you have a nut allergy or prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts. The fluff will still have plenty of texture from the marshmallows and fruit.

4. Make It Lighter

For a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding mix, low-fat Cool Whip, and substitute the chocolate chips with dark chocolate or cacao nibs.

Conclusion

This Banana Split Fluff is a fun and easy dessert that combines all the flavors of a classic banana split into one creamy, fruity, and marshmallow-filled dish. Perfect for parties or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep and can be made ahead of time. The combination of sweet bananas, juicy strawberries, tangy pineapple, and creamy banana pudding is a nostalgic treat that everyone will love!

Whip up this fluffy dessert in just 15 minutes, let it chill, and watch it disappear as soon as it hits the table!