Strawberry Fluff Salad Recipe
Introduction
Strawberry Fluff Salad is a nostalgic, creamy dessert salad bursting with fresh strawberries, pineapple, and mini marshmallows. Light, sweet, and perfect for gatherings or a simple treat, it’s an easy recipe to brighten any meal.
Ingredients
- 3 ounces (1 box) strawberry Jell-O mix
- 1 cup hot water
- ½ cup cold water
- 3.4 ounces (1 box) instant vanilla pudding
- 8 ounces (1 tub) whipped topping, such as Cool Whip
- 10 ounces (1 bag) mini marshmallows
- 24 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled, halved, and sliced
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O mix in 1 cup of hot water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Step 2: Mix in ½ cup cold water, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Step 3: Stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix until fully combined, then chill for an additional 30 minutes.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly combined throughout the mixture.
- Step 5: Fold in the sliced fresh strawberries, drained crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
- Step 6: Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to set properly.
- Step 7: Spoon the finished Strawberry Fluff Salad into individual bowls or onto a serving platter and serve chilled.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts.
- Use frozen strawberries, thawed and drained, if fresh berries aren’t available.
- Swap crushed pineapple for mandarin oranges for a citrus twist.
- To make it lighter, reduce the amount of whipped topping or use a low-fat version.
Storage
Store Strawberry Fluff Salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad separates slightly, gently stir before serving. It’s best eaten chilled and is not recommended for freezing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?
Yes, you can substitute strawberry Jell-O with raspberry or cherry for a similar berry flavor, but avoid flavors that might clash with the fruit ingredients.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare the salad up to a day ahead and refrigerate. The flavors often improve after resting, making it a great make-ahead option.
PrintStrawberry Fluff Salad Recipe
Strawberry Fluff Salad is a delightful no-cook dessert salad combining sweet strawberry Jell-O, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and a medley of fresh strawberries, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows. Perfectly chilled and easy to prepare, this refreshing salad is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Gelatin Base
- 3 ounces (1 box) strawberry Jell-O mix
- 1 cup hot water
- ½ cup cold water
Pudding Layer
- 3.4 ounces (1 box) instant vanilla pudding
Mix-Ins
- 8 ounces (1 tub) whipped topping, such as Cool Whip
- 10 ounces (1 bag) mini marshmallows
- 24 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled, halved, and sliced
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions
- Prepare Jell-O Base: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O mix in 1 cup of hot water, stirring until fully dissolved to ensure a smooth base.
- Initial Chilling: Mix in ½ cup of cold water and refrigerate for about 30 minutes until the gelatin mixture is slightly thickened but not fully set.
- Add Pudding Layer: Stir the instant vanilla pudding mix into the thickened Jell-O mixture until fully combined, then chill for an additional 30 minutes to allow further thickening.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly combined, creating a light and fluffy texture throughout the mixture.
- Add Fruits and Marshmallows: Fold in the sliced fresh strawberries, drained crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows carefully to distribute them evenly without breaking up the fruit.
- Final Setting: Refrigerate the assembled salad for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the salad set properly before serving.
- Serve: Spoon the chilled Strawberry Fluff Salad into individual serving bowls or onto a serving platter and enjoy this sweet, creamy treat.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure the gelatin is not fully set before adding pudding and whipped topping to maintain fluffiness.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for optimal flavor and sweetness.
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavors.
- Mix gently to keep the whipped topping airy and prevent the fruit from breaking down.
Keywords: Strawberry Fluff Salad, strawberry gelatin dessert, no-cook dessert salad, Jell-O salad, creamy fruit salad, quick dessert, strawberry pudding salad
