Pudding Fruit Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pudding Fruit Salad is a creamy, refreshing, and sweet side dish or dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, and warm-weather gatherings. The smooth vanilla pudding pairs beautifully with a mix of juicy fruits, creating a luscious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and loved by all ages.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

instant vanilla pudding mixcold milkwhipped topping (like Cool Whip)canned pineapple chunks (drained)mandarin oranges (drained)seedless grapes (halved)strawberries (sliced)bananas (sliced, optional)mini marshmallows (optional)

directions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.

Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.

Gently stir in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, grapes, and strawberries.

If using, add sliced bananas and mini marshmallows, folding carefully to avoid breaking the fruit.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to chill.

Stir gently before serving and garnish with a few extra fruit slices if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 10 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use cheesecake or banana pudding mix for a twist in flavor.

Add shredded coconut or chopped nuts for texture.

Swap in your favorite seasonal fruits like blueberries, mango, or kiwi.

Mix in a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang.

storage/reheating

Store Pudding Fruit Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Do not freeze as the texture will be compromised.

Stir gently before each serving to redistribute any separated ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling overnight.

Can I use homemade pudding?

Absolutely, just make sure it’s completely cooled before mixing with the fruit and whipped topping.

Is this salad overly sweet?

It’s sweet but balanced by the freshness of the fruit. You can adjust the sweetness by using less whipped topping or adding unsweetened fruit.

What if I don’t have whipped topping?

You can substitute with stabilized whipped cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream.

Do I have to drain the canned fruit?

Yes, draining is important to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

Can I omit the marshmallows?

Yes, they’re totally optional and can be left out or replaced with another add-in.

Is this gluten-free?

Check the labels on your pudding mix and whipped topping to be sure—they can vary.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Fresh or canned is best. Frozen fruit tends to release too much liquid.

Can kids help make this?

Definitely! It’s a fun and easy recipe that kids can help assemble.

Can I serve this warm?

No, this salad is best served chilled.

Conclusion

Pudding Fruit Salad is a creamy, fruity, and irresistible dish that adds color and sweetness to any meal. Easy to whip up and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert or side for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday buffet or a backyard BBQ, this salad will always be a hit.

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