Here’s a creamy, no-bake dessert I love that brings all the fun of a banana split into one easy dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I adore the way this dessert captures the classic banana split flavour without needing ice cream or melting under the heat. It’s quick to throw together, turns into a fun, fluffy treat, and is perfect for gatherings or just a cozy dessert at home. The mix of banana, pineapple, chocolate, cherries and whipped topping gives it a great texture—soft, creamy, a little bit crunchy—and the flavours all sing. It’s a retro-style dessert that I always feel proud serving.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice — do not drain
1 box (3.4 oz) banana cream instant pudding mix
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (thawed)
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the crushed pineapple with its juice.
Sprinkle the banana cream instant pudding mix over the pineapple and stir until the powder is fully dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken.
Fold in the whipped topping gently, using a spatula so the mixture stays light and fluffy.
Cover the bowl, then refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour (or longer if you like it more chilled and set).
After chilling, spoon into serving dishes. Optional: top with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, banana slices, or maraschino cherries for extra flair.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 servings, and takes roughly 15 minutes of hands-on prep, plus 1 hour chilling time.
Variations
If you like, add in sliced fresh bananas right before serving to keep them from browning.
Stir in mini marshmallows, chopped nuts (like walnuts or peanuts), or chocolate chips for added texture and fun.
Swap banana pudding mix for a vanilla or coconut-cream instant pudding mix for a flavour twist.
Instead of whipped topping, you could use lightly sweetened homemade whipped cream for a richer feel.
Serve individual portions in glass cups with a drizzle of chocolate- or caramel-sauce on top for a more decadent presentation.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If stored, the dessert is best consumed within 2-3 days; after that the fruit might soften too much and bananas may brown. There’s no reheating needed — this is best served cold. If bananas are added, it’s best to add them just before serving for best appearance.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Yes — you can make it a few hours ahead and chill it to let the flavours meld. If you’re planning to serve it the next day, it’s fine, but try to add fresh banana slices at the last minute so they don’t brown.
Can I freeze this dessert?
I don’t recommend freezing. The whipped topping and fruit will separate or become watery when thawed, and the texture will suffer.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You could try fresh pineapple, but you’ll need enough juice (or add a little extra liquid) to allow the instant pudding mix to set properly. The convenience and juice from the canned pineapple help the mixture thicken effectively.
What if I don’t have banana cream pudding mix — can I use another flavour?
Yes — vanilla or coconut-cream instant pudding mix will work and offer a slightly different flavour profile. The banana cream gives a pronounced banana hit, but you can adapt depending on what you have.
Can I make this lighter or adapt for dietary restrictions?
Certainly. You can use a light or lower-fat whipped topping, or even make your own whipped cream from low-fat cream. Use sugar-free instant pudding if desired. Just keep in mind that changes may alter texture slightly.
Conclusion
This Banana Split Fluff is one of my favourite dessert go-tos when I want something sweet, fun, and easy with minimal fuss. It’s playful and flavourful, gives me the banana split vibe without the melting ice-cream mess, and always brings smiles. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do.
A no‑bake, fluffy dessert that channels all the fun of a banana split—banana, pineapple, whipped topping, and optional mix‑ins—for a light, playful treat.
Ingredients
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice — do not drain
