Introduction
Fruit Salad with Pudding is a classic dessert-style salad that combines the freshness of fruit with a smooth, creamy pudding base. It is light yet satisfying, sweet without being overwhelming, and incredibly easy to prepare. I often make this recipe when I need a reliable dish for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners because it appeals to all ages and comes together quickly. The pudding adds a silky texture that coats the fruit beautifully, turning a simple fruit mix into something that feels special and indulgent. I have tried this recipe with both vanilla and banana pudding, and each version brings its own charm. This salad is best served chilled, making it especially refreshing during warmer months. Whether you serve it as a side dish, dessert, or brunch addition, fruit salad with pudding is a dependable, crowd-pleasing favorite.
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Fruit Salad With Pudding That Is Creamy, Refreshing, and Crowd-Pleasing
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, refreshing fruit salad made with a smooth vanilla pudding base and a colorful mix of fresh fruit—easy to prepare and perfect for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 banana, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Gently fold in whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
- Add prepared fruit to the pudding mixture.
- Carefully stir until fruit is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Stir gently before serving and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
- Use any combination of fresh or canned fruit.
- Chill well for best flavor.
- Store covered in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is creamy, refreshing, and incredibly versatile. It requires no baking, minimal prep, and uses simple ingredients. It is easy to customize with seasonal fruit and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Instant pudding mix creates the creamy base and adds sweetness and structure to the salad.
Milk
Milk activates the pudding mix and helps achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
Whipped topping
Whipped topping lightens the pudding and gives the salad a fluffy, mousse-like texture.
Strawberries
Strawberries add freshness, color, and natural sweetness.
Pineapple chunks
Pineapple provides brightness and a slightly tangy contrast to the creamy base.
Grapes
Grapes add crunch and juiciness, balancing the softer fruits.
Mandarin oranges
Mandarin oranges add citrus flavor and vibrant color.
Bananas
Bananas add natural sweetness and a soft, creamy texture.
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened. Allow it to sit for 2 to 3 minutes to fully set.
Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding until fully combined and smooth.
Wash, dry, and prepare all fresh fruit. Slice the strawberries, halve the grapes if desired, and slice the bananas just before adding to prevent browning.
Add the prepared fruit, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges to the pudding mixture. Gently fold until the fruit is evenly coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend. Stir lightly before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a chilling time of at least 1 hour before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Fruit salad with pudding is easy to adapt. You can swap vanilla pudding for banana, cheesecake, or white chocolate pudding for a different flavor profile. Seasonal fruits such as blueberries, kiwi, peaches, or mango work very well.
For added texture, mini marshmallows or shredded coconut can be folded in. If you want a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk and whipped topping. For extra richness, add a small amount of cream cheese blended into the pudding.
This salad also works well layered in a trifle bowl for presentation at special events.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
The following nutrition information is approximate and based on one serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbs | 36 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 28 g |
| Sodium | 190 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Chill before serving
Chilling improves texture and flavor.
Add bananas last
This prevents browning and keeps them fresh.
Drain canned fruit well
Excess liquid can thin the pudding.
Fold gently
Gentle mixing keeps the salad light and fluffy.
Taste before serving
Adjust sweetness if needed.
Storage/reheating
Store fruit salad with pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Stir gently before serving. Reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made several hours in advance.
Does this get watery?
It can if fruit is not well drained.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, but drain excess juice well.
Is this dessert or side dish?
It works as both.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and whipped topping.
What pudding flavor works best?
Vanilla is classic, but banana is popular.
Can I add nuts?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch.
How long does it last?
Best within two days.
Conclusion
Fruit Salad with Pudding is a creamy, refreshing dish that transforms simple fruit into a comforting, crowd-pleasing favorite. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is a reliable recipe for gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a light yet satisfying treat.
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