Banana Split Fluff Salad

INGREDIENTS:

Bananas: You’ll need ripe bananas, as they provide the base flavor for the salad.

Crushed Pineapple: Canned crushed pineapple is commonly used. Make sure to drain the excess juice.

Maraschino Cherries: These add a pop of color and sweetness to the salad. You can either chop them or leave them whole.

Mini Marshmallows: Marshmallows add a fluffy texture and sweetness to the salad.

Chopped Nuts: Typically, chopped walnuts or pecans are used. They add a nice crunch to the dish.

Whipped Topping: A tub of whipped topping, such as Cool Whip, is used to make the salad creamy and luscious.

Chocolate Chips: Some recipes include mini chocolate chips to mimic the chocolate sauce of a banana split.

Optional: Crushed Graham Crackers or Waffle Cones: These can be added for a hint of the classic ice cream cone flavor.

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and slicing the bananas into rounds. Drain the crushed pineapple and cherries. Chop the nuts if they’re not pre-chopped.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts. Be careful not to mash the bananas.

Fold in Whipped Topping: Add the tub of whipped topping to the fruit mixture and gently fold everything together until well combined. The whipped topping should coat all the ingredients and make the salad creamy.

Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): If you want to include chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the top and fold them in as well.

Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to set.

Serve: Before serving, you can garnish with additional cherries, chopped nuts, and, if desired, crushed graham crackers or crumbled waffle cones for added texture and a nod to the classic banana split presentation.

Enjoy: Serve the Banana Split Fluff Salad as a dessert or side dish at your next gathering, and watch it disappear quickly!

This delightful dessert combines the nostalgic flavors of a banana split with the convenience of a salad. It’s a sweet and creamy treat that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.