Introduction
Fruit Salad With Pudding is a classic, comforting dessert that brings together fresh fruit and a smooth, creamy base in the simplest and most satisfying way. This recipe is especially popular for gatherings, potlucks, holidays, and family meals because it is quick to prepare, visually appealing, and loved by all ages. I often turn to this dish when I need a reliable dessert that feels light yet indulgent at the same time. The pudding adds richness and structure, transforming ordinary fruit salad into something more dessert-like without becoming heavy. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can adapt it to the fruits you have on hand, adjust the sweetness easily, and prepare it well ahead of time. Served chilled, this Fruit Salad With Pudding offers a refreshing contrast to heavier desserts and always disappears quickly from the table.
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Fruit Salad With Pudding That Is Creamy, Refreshing, and Crowd-Pleasing
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and refreshing fruit salad made with a smooth vanilla pudding base and a colorful mix of fresh fruits, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz / 96 g) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1 banana, sliced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- Fold the whipped topping gently into the pudding until smooth and creamy.
- Add pineapple, mandarin oranges, strawberries, grapes, apples, and banana.
- Gently stir until all fruit is evenly coated with the pudding mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Use fruit packed in juice, not syrup, for best flavor.
- Add bananas just before serving to avoid browning.
- You can substitute vanilla pudding with cheesecake or banana pudding.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fruit salad is creamy, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. It requires no baking, comes together in minutes, and can be made ahead of time. It is perfect for feeding a crowd and works beautifully as a light dessert or sweet side dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vanilla pudding mix forms the creamy base that binds the fruit together and adds gentle sweetness.
Milk activates the pudding mix and creates a smooth, velvety texture.
Fresh strawberries add color, freshness, and natural sweetness.
Fresh grapes provide juiciness and a pleasant bite.
Bananas add softness and classic fruit salad flavor.
Pineapple chunks contribute brightness and a subtle tropical note.
Mandarin oranges add citrusy sweetness and balance the creaminess.
Whipped topping lightens the pudding and gives the salad an airy finish.
Optional mini marshmallows add extra sweetness and nostalgic texture.
Optional shredded coconut adds subtle flavor and visual appeal.
Directions
Begin by whisking the pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl until thickened and smooth. Allow it to set for a few minutes. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated, creating a light and creamy base. Prepare the fruit by washing, peeling, and cutting as needed. Add the fruit gradually to the pudding mixture, folding gently to avoid crushing softer fruits like bananas. If using marshmallows or coconut, fold them in last. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to chill thoroughly.
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 eight people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an additional chilling time of at least 1 hour before serving.
Storage/reheating
Store Fruit Salad With Pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. This dish does not require reheating and should always be served chilled for best texture and flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Fruit Salad With Pudding is extremely flexible. I have made this recipe using only seasonal fruit, which works beautifully and keeps it fresh and vibrant. For a lighter version, sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping can be used without sacrificing flavor. You can switch vanilla pudding for cheesecake or banana-flavored pudding for a different twist. Adding blueberries, kiwi, or mango creates exciting variations in color and taste. For a more dessert-style version, crushed cookies or graham crackers can be sprinkled on top just before serving.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This fruit salad offers a balance of fresh fruit and creamy elements. It contains natural sugars from fruit along with added sweetness from pudding. Portion control helps keep it suitable for balanced enjoyment. Using low-fat milk and lighter pudding options can reduce calorie content.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Gentle folding
Fold fruit carefully to maintain shape and texture.
Banana timing
Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
Chill well
Proper chilling improves flavor and consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made several hours in advance.
Will the fruit release liquid?
Minimal liquid is released if fruit is fresh and well-drained.
Can I use canned fruit?
Yes, drain it thoroughly before adding.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It is mildly sweet and well balanced by fruit.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, stabilized whipped cream works well.
How do I prevent bananas from browning?
Add them last and keep them well coated in pudding.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Dairy-free pudding and whipped topping can be used.
Does it work for potlucks?
Yes, it is ideal for group events.
Can I freeze this fruit salad?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What pudding flavor works best?
Vanilla is classic, but cheesecake and banana are also great.
Conclusion
Fruit Salad With Pudding is a timeless, easy dessert that combines freshness, creaminess, and convenience in one dish. With its adaptable ingredients, no-bake preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it is a dependable recipe that works for everyday meals, celebrations, and everything in between.
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