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Banana Fluff
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Dive into a bowl of our Banana Fluff for a creamy, dreamy treat! This delightful dessert bursts with banana flavor and fluffy marshmallows. Perfect for parties or family nights, it’s a quick and easy recipe everyone will love.
This recipe is easy to make, and you can follow the guide below. We provide step-by-step photos and directions, along with pro tips and tricks. Check out our frequently asked questions for more insights and answers.
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Get ready to whip up our Banana Pudding Fluff in just 15 minutes! This easy dessert is perfect for parties, potlucks, or any special occasion. The creamy banana flavor and fluffy marshmallows make it irresistible. Make this delightful treat at home and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Banana Fluff Recipe:
- 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 3.4-ounce box of instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup of whole milk
- ½ teaspoon of banana extract
- 8-ounce tub of Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
- 2 cups of mini vanilla wafer cookies
- 2 cups of mini marshmallows
- 1 cup of sliced bananas (approximately 2 small bananas), ¼ inch thick
Pro Tip
The mini vanilla wafers make assembling this recipe so easy. If you only have the standard-sized vanilla wafer cookies, then you can use those; however, I suggest you crush them up a bit before adding them to your fluff. You do not want full-sized cookies in your banana pudding fluff.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your fluffy banana pudding with Cool Whip with these easy ingredient swaps and additions. Customize the flavor to make it uniquely yours!
- Vanilla Wafers: Swap for graham crackers or crushed cookies for a different crunch.
- Bananas: Add strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Marshmallows: Mix in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture.
- Pudding Mix: Use chocolate or vanilla pudding mix for a new flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy taste and healthier option.
How to Make Banana Fluff
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and the tips and tricks listed below. Let’s get started! Make this delicious banana pudding fluff today and impress your friends and family with this easy recipe.
Pro Tip
To help slow the browning process of the fresh bananas, you can brush or dip the banana slices in a little lemon juice. Keep in mind that it could throw the taste off slightly due to the sourness of the lemons.
FIRST STEP: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a handheld mixer on medium speed for 1 minute or until smooth.
SECOND STEP: In a small bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, whole milk, and banana extract just until combined and slightly thickened.
THIRD STEP: Pour the banana pudding mixture into the bowl of beaten cream cheese and mix on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
FOURTH STEP: Fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
FIFTH STEP: Fold the mini vanilla wafer cookies and miniature marshmallows into the banana pudding mixture.
SIXTH STEP: Lastly, gently fold the sliced bananas into the banana pudding fluff. You can reserve a couple of banana slices to use as a garnish.
Pro Tip
If your bananas are large and give you more than 1 cup of banana slices, you can certainly add the extra slices to your fluff. You can also put your extra piece of banana into a freezer-safe zip-top bag to freeze for use in smoothies or other recipes.
SEVENTH STEP: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and garnish with a couple of extra banana slices and mini vanilla wafer cookies. Cover the bowl with a piece of plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Fluff
Serve Banana Pudding Fluff at summer barbecues, birthday parties, or cozy winter gatherings. Kids and adults will love this easy dessert!
- Summer Barbecues: Enjoy this refreshing treat as a sweet ending to your barbecue. Pair it with grilled burgers and corn on the cob for a perfect summer feast.
- Birthday Parties: Make any birthday extra special with this fun and creamy treat. Serve it alongside cookie dough cupcakes to delight kids and adults alike.
- Winter Gatherings: Bring a taste of summer to your winter celebrations with this delicious dessert. Pair it with warm hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies for a cozy and comforting treat.
Why You'll Love Banana Fluff
Banana Pudding Fluff is more than just a treat—it’s a beloved favorite for several delightful reasons:
- A Symphony of Flavors: This recipe combines the creamy, dreamy taste of banana pudding with the fluffy texture of marshmallows. Every spoonful offers a delightful burst of banana goodness.
- Evokes Warm Memories: For many, Banana Pudding Fluff brings back fond memories of family gatherings, festive holidays, and cozy moments. It’s a comforting classic that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
- More Than Just Dessert: Beyond its role as a sweet ending to a meal, Banana Pudding Fluff is a blend of enticing textures and flavors. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for a full sensory experience.
Banana Pudding Fluff isn’t just delicious—it’s a bowl of joy that enhances any occasion.
Preparation FAQ
How long does it take to make this recipe?
You can make banana pudding with marshmallows in just 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert.
Can I make Banana Fluff ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare your Cool Whip banana pudding recipe the night before. The flavors blend beautifully when chilled overnight.
What type of pudding mix should I use for Banana Fluff?
Use instant banana pudding mix for the best flavor and quick preparation. It creates a creamy and delicious dessert.
Can I serve Banana Fluff for special occasions?
Absolutely! It's is perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Everyone will love this creamy treat!
Serving FAQ
How should I serve Banana Fluff at a party?
If you don't want to serve your fluff in a serving bowl with a large spoon, serve it in individual cups with a spoon. It’s easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Can I add toppings to Banana Pudding Fluff when serving?
Yes, add whipped cream, crushed cookies, or fresh fruit as toppings. They enhance the dessert's flavor and presentation.
Is Banana Fluff suitable for kids' parties?
Absolutely! Kids love the creamy texture and banana flavor. It’s a hit at birthday parties and playdates.
Can I serve Banana Pudding Fluff in a trifle dish?
Yes, scoop your fluff in a trifle dish with extra bananas and cookies. It creates an impressive, delicious dessert.
Storage FAQ
Can I prepare Banana Fluff salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Banana Fluff the night before. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
How should I store leftover Banana Fluff?
Store any leftovers of banana pudding salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I freeze Banana Fluff for later use?
No, freezing is not recommended. The texture changes, and the fluffiness is lost.
Should I reheat dessert fluff in the microwave?
No, your Banana Fluff dessert should not be heated. Serve it chilled for the best taste and texture.
Banana Fluff
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 3.4 ounces instant banana pudding
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon banana extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping (thawed)
- 2 cups mini vanilla wafer cookies
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sliced bananas (approximately 2 small bananas, ¼ inch thick)
DIRECTIONS
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a handheld mixer on medium speed for 1 minute or until smooth.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding, whole milk, and banana extract just until combined and slightly thickened.
- Pour the banana pudding mixture into the bowl of beaten cream cheese and mix on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
- Fold the mini vanilla wafer cookies and mini marshmallows into the banana fluff mixture.
- Lastly, gently fold the sliced bananas into the banana pudding fluff. You can reserve a couple of banana slices to use as a garnish.
- Transfer the banana pudding fluff to a serving bowl and garnish with a couple of extra banana slices and mini vanilla wafer cookies. Cover the bowl with a piece of plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Notes
- The mini vanilla wafers make assembling this recipe so easy. If you only have the standard-sized vanilla wafer cookies, then you can use those; however, I suggest you crush them up a bit before adding them to your fluff. You do not want full-sized cookies in your banana pudding fluff.
- To help slow the browning process of the fresh bananas, you can brush or dip the banana slices in a little lemon juice. Keep in mind that it could throw the taste off slightly due to the sourness of the lemons.
- If your bananas are large and give you more than 1 cup of banana slices, you can certainly add the extra slices to your fluff. You can also put your extra piece of banana into a freezer-safe zip-top bag to freeze for use in smoothies or other recipes.
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