why make this recipe
Creamy Vanilla Pudding Fruit Salad is a delightful and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The blend of fresh fruits with a smooth vanilla pudding base creates a delicious and colorful dish. It is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for gatherings, picnics, or family meals. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a hit with kids and adults alike!
how to make Creamy Vanilla Pudding Fruit Salad
Ingredients:
For the Pudding Base:
- 2 packages (3.4 oz / 96g each) Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (Jell-O brand recommended)
- 2 ½ cups cold whole milk (do not use skim or low-fat, as it won’t set as firmly)
- 1 container (8 oz / 226g) Cool Whip or other frozen whipped topping, thawed in the refrigerator
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional, for a richer vanilla flavor)
For the Fruit Medley:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 2 cups green seedless grapes, halved
- 2 cups red seedless grapes, halved
- 3 medium bananas, sliced (add just before serving)
- 1 can (20 oz / 567g) pineapple chunks or tidbits in 100% juice, drained very well
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) mandarin oranges, drained very well
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Optional Add-ins for Texture:
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the two packages of instant vanilla pudding mix and the 2 ½ cups of cold whole milk. Keep whisking for about two minutes until the mixture thickens and resembles a paste. This thickness is important for the final salad.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the pudding’s surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the bowl in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, until it is cold and firmly set.
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While the pudding is chilling, prepare the fruit. Wash and dry the grapes and berries. Hull and quarter the strawberries. Drain the canned pineapple and mandarin oranges very well, even patting them dry with a paper towel to remove extra moisture. Do not slice the bananas yet; add them just before serving.
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Once the pudding is chilled and thick, remove it from the refrigerator. Add the thawed Cool Whip and the optional teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently fold the Cool Whip into the pudding using a rubber spatula. Use a gentle "cut and fold" motion until combined and fluffy.
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Next, add all the prepared fruits, except the bananas, into the pudding mixture. If you are using optional add-ins like mini marshmallows, coconut, or nuts, add them now. Again, gently fold to combine without breaking down the fruit.
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Cover the fruit salad and return it to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 3-4 hours or overnight for the best flavor. The salad will get even creamier as it sits.
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Right before serving, slice the bananas and gently fold them into the salad. This keeps them fresh and prevents browning. Serve in a decorative bowl and enjoy!
how to serve Creamy Vanilla Pudding Fruit Salad
Serve this lovely fruit salad chilled as a dessert or a sweet side dish. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or barbecue in the summer and can also be lovely for brunch. Use a festive bowl to showcase the colorful fruits.
how to store Creamy Vanilla Pudding Fruit Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. After this time, the fruits may start to get mushy, and the bananas could brown.
tips to make Creamy Vanilla Pudding Fruit Salad
- Make sure to drain the canned fruit well to prevent a runny salad.
- Add the bananas right before serving to keep them fresh.
- Feel free to customize the fruit selection based on what you love or have on hand.
variation
You can switch up the fruits based on the season. Try adding kiwi, mango, or seasonal berries for a twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
A: Yes! Homemade whipped cream can be a great alternative for a fresher taste.
Q: Can I make this salad a day in advance?
A: Absolutely! In fact, letting it chill overnight helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Q: What can I do if I can’t find the instant vanilla pudding mix?
A: You can use any flavor of instant pudding or consider making a homemade pudding from scratch, but keep in mind that it may alter the overall ease of preparation.