Creamy Strawberry Fluff Salad with Fresh Fruits and Marshmallows Recipe
Introduction
This delightful Strawberry Fluff Salad combines fresh strawberries, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows in a creamy, airy base flavored with strawberry Jell-O and vanilla pudding. It’s a nostalgic, sweet treat perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a light dessert that’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
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 completely dissolved.
- Step 2: Add ½ cup cold water to the Jell-O mixture and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, until slightly thickened but not set.
- Step 3: Stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix until fully combined. Return the bowl to the refrigerator and chill for another 30 minutes.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is evenly combined and airy.
- Step 5: Add the sliced fresh strawberries, drained crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows. Fold gently to distribute evenly without deflating the fluff.
- Step 6: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to set properly.
- Step 7: Serve chilled by spooning into individual bowls or onto a serving platter.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh strawberries for the best texture and flavor, but if unavailable, thaw and thoroughly drain frozen strawberries before adding.
- For a lighter version, substitute sugar-free Jell-O and pudding mixes along with light whipped topping.
- Add other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin orange segments for variety.
- Homemade whipped cream can replace store-bought whipped topping for a more natural option.
- Reserve some strawberry juice when slicing berries and add it to the Jell-O mixture for a more intense strawberry flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may soften as the marshmallows absorb moisture, but the flavor remains delicious. This salad does not freeze well. Stir gently before serving leftover portions.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the salad runny. Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor.
How far in advance can I make this strawberry fluff?
You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours ahead. It tastes better after chilling, but making it more than a day early may cause the marshmallows to soften too much and change the texture.
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Creamy Strawberry Fluff Salad with Fresh Fruits and Marshmallows Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 7 servings (1 large bowl) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Fluff Salad is a creamy, airy dessert that combines fresh strawberries, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and whipped topping with a strawberry Jell-O and vanilla pudding base. This easy-to-make chilled salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a light and refreshing dessert. The vibrant pink color and sweet fruity flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Base Mixture
- 3 ounces (1 box) strawberry Jell-O mix
- 1 cup hot water
- ½ cup cold water
- 3.4 ounces (1 box) instant vanilla pudding mix
Creamy Components
- 8 ounces (1 tub) whipped topping, such as Cool Whip
- 10 ounces (1 bag) mini marshmallows
Fresh Fruits
- 24 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled, halved, and sliced
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions
- Dissolve Jell-O Mix: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O mix in 1 cup of hot water, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
- Initial Chilling: Add ½ cup of cold water to the dissolved Jell-O, stir well, then refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly thickened but not fully set.
- Add Instant Pudding: Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix until completely combined with no visible powder. Return to the refrigerator and chill for another 30 minutes.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the chilled pudding and Jell-O mixture using a rubber spatula to maintain the airy texture.
- Add Fruits and Marshmallows: Carefully fold in the sliced fresh strawberries, well-drained crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed without overmixing.
- Final Setting: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or individual dishes, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and for the salad to set properly.
- Serve: Spoon the chilled Strawberry Fluff Salad into bowls or onto a serving platter and enjoy.
Notes
- Can be made up to 24 hours ahead for improved flavor and texture.
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor; frozen berries can be substituted if thoroughly thawed and drained.
- For a lighter version, use sugar-free Jell-O and pudding mixes and light whipped topping.
- Homemade whipped cream can replace whipped topping but may alter texture slightly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze, as texture will be compromised.
- Add other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges for variety, but ensure they are well-drained.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry Fluff Salad, Strawberry dessert, Whipped topping salad, Jell-O salad, Pineapple dessert, Marshmallow salad, No bake dessert, Fresh strawberry recipe
