Banana Pudding Fluff Salad
This banana fluff brings all the nostalgic flavors of classic banana pudding into a light, creamy salad that’s perfect for any gathering. Ready in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, this dessert combines fresh banana slices, vanilla wafers, and fluffy whipped topping for a treat that tastes like childhood memories.

The beauty of this banana pudding fluff salad lies in its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether you’re bringing a dish to a potluck or need a quick dessert for unexpected guests, this recipe delivers every time with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Looking for more crowd-pleasing desserts? This Marshmallow Fruit Salad with Blueberries is another favorite, and my Easy Ambrosia Salad Recipe brings those same classic flavors. For something a bit different, try my No Bake Banana Split Dessert or Banana Upside Down Cake for more banana goodness.
Table of Contents
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: The preparation of this soup is as engaging as its rich flavors. The succulent tender meatballs are prepared with a blend of ground beef and rice, then simmered in a flavorful tomato broth.
- One-pot meal: Not only is the Albondigas Soup recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it is also a one-pot meal. This makes it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights.
- Less than 60 minutes to make: Despite its complex and delicious flavors, the soup can be prepared in less than 60 minutes, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day.

Banana Fluff Ingredients
See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.

Ingredient Notes:
- Banana Cream Pudding Mix – The 3.4-ounce box of instant pudding mix provides a classic banana flavor and helps thicken the mixture without requiring cooking on the stove.
- Fresh Bananas – Two medium bananas sliced into rounds give you those signature banana pudding chunks, and using fresh fruit adds natural sweetness and authentic texture.
- Whipped Topping – Eight ounces of store-bought whipped topping creates the light, fluffy base that makes this salad so appealing and easy to mix.
- Sour Cream – One cup of sour cream adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness and creates a richer, creamier texture than using whipped topping alone.
- Mini Marshmallows – These add little pockets of sweetness and a fun texture contrast that makes each bite interesting and reminds you of classic fluff salads.
- Mini Nilla Wafers – The cookies provide that essential banana pudding element and soften as they sit in the mixture, creating layers of flavor and texture.
Substitutions and Additions
- Pudding Mix Alternatives – You can substitute vanilla pudding mix if banana isn’t available, or try cheesecake pudding mix for a richer flavor profile.
- Fresh Fruit Options – Add strawberry slices or blueberries for extra color and flavor, or try using sliced peaches when they’re in season.
- Cookie Variations – Vanilla wafers work perfectly, but you could also use graham crackers broken into pieces or even shortbread cookies for different textures.
- Dairy Alternatives – Substitute sour cream with softened and slightly thinned cream cheese, or use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How to Make Banana Pudding Fluff Salad (step-by-step directions)

STEP 1. Start by peeling your bananas and slicing them into rounds about ¼ inch thick, though you can adjust the thickness based on your preference. Set these banana slices aside while you prepare the creamy base. (Photo 1)
STEP 2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping, sour cream, and dry pudding mix. Stir these ingredients together until they’re fully combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. (Photos 2, 3 & 4)

STEP 3. Gently fold in the marshmallows, mini Nilla wafers, and sliced bananas, being careful not to break up the banana pieces too much. Mix just until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. (Photo 5)
STEP 4. You can serve this banana fluff immediately, but for the best results, cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld together beautifully. (Photo 6)

Recipe Tips
- Banana Selection – Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from getting mushy when mixed into the salad.
- Cookie Timing – If you prefer crunchier cookies, fold them in just before serving rather than letting them sit in the mixture.
- Make-Ahead Success – This recipe actually improves with time, so don’t hesitate to make it a day ahead for even better flavor development.
- Serving Temperature – Serve this banana fluff chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and most refreshing experience.
Storing Tips
- Storage: Keep your banana pudding fluff salad covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the bananas from browning.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, though the texture and flavor are best within the first 2-3 days after making.
- Freezing: This recipe should not be frozen as the whipped topping and fresh bananas don’t freeze well and will become watery when thawed.
- Reheating: No reheating needed – this dessert is meant to be served cold straight from the refrigerator for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This banana fluff pairs beautifully with other potluck favorites and summer dishes. You can serve it alongside BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich for a complete meal, or add it to a dessert table with Easy Blueberry Dump Cake and Pumpkin Dump Cake.
For a themed banana dessert spread, pair it with Banana Cream Frozen Yogurt and Hawaiian Roll French Toast. If you’re hosting a summer gathering, this banana pudding fluff salad works wonderfully with Watermelon Lemonade and other easy summer appetizers.

Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can substitute the pudding mix with 3-4 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, though the banana flavor won’t be as pronounced and the texture will be slightly different.
Slice the bananas just before mixing and serve within 4 days. The acidic sour cream and covered storage help slow browning, but very ripe bananas may still darken slightly over time.
Absolutely! Sugar-free banana pudding mix works perfectly in this recipe and reduces the overall sugar content without significantly changing the taste or texture.
Keep it in a covered container and transport in a cooler with ice packs. Add any garnishes like extra wafers or marshmallows just before serving to maintain their texture.
Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Just use a larger mixing bowl and be gentle when folding in the ingredients to avoid breaking up the bananas and cookies.

Banana Pudding Fluff Salad
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl Medium
- Silicone Spatula for folding
Ingredients
- 1 Box Banana Cream Pudding 3.4 ounces
- 2 Medium Bananas
- 8 Ounces (226 ⅘ g) Whipped Topping
- 1 Cup (230 g) Sour Cream
- 1 Cup (50 g) Mini Marshmallows
- 1 Cup (110 g) Mini Nilla Wafers
- Extra mini marshmallows banana slices, and Nilla Wafers (optional garnishes)
Instructions
- Start by peeling your bananas and slicing them into rounds about ¼ inch thick, though you can adjust the thickness based on your preference. Set these banana slices aside while you prepare the creamy base.2 Medium Bananas
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping, sour cream, and dry pudding mix. Stir these ingredients together until they’re fully combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy.8 Ounces Whipped Topping,1 Cup Sour Cream,1 Box Banana Cream Pudding
- Gently fold in the marshmallows, mini Nilla wafers, and sliced bananas, being careful not to break up the banana pieces too much. Mix just until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.1 Cup Mini Marshmallows,1 Cup Mini Nilla Wafers
- You can serve this banana fluff immediately, but for the best results, cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld together beautifully.Extra mini marshmallows
Notes
- Banana Selection – Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from getting mushy when mixed into the salad.
- Cookie Timing – If you prefer crunchier cookies, fold them in just before serving rather than letting them sit in the mixture.
- Make-Ahead Success – This recipe actually improves with time, so don’t hesitate to make it a day ahead for even better flavor development.
- Serving Temperature – Serve this banana fluff chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and most refreshing experience.
Nutrition Information
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