Name: Strawberry Fluff Salad
Prep time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ounces strawberry Jell-O Mix (1 box); 1 cup hot water; ½ cup cold water; 3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding (1 box); 8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip) (1 tub); 24 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled, halved, and sliced; 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained; 10 ounces mini marshmallows (1 bag)

Looking for a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing? Look no further than this delightful Strawberry Fluff Salad. Bursting with the sweetness of strawberries, the creaminess of whipped topping, and the lightness of marshmallows, this recipe is a surefire hit for any occasion, especially during warm weather gatherings. Follow along as we guide you through the steps to create this scrumptious treat!

Ingredients:

3 ounces strawberry Jell-O Mix (1 box)

1 cup hot water

½ cup cold water

3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding (1 box)

8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip) (1 tub)

24 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled, halved, and sliced

20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained

10 ounces mini marshmallows (1 bag)

Directions:

Dissolve Jell-O in hot water: Start by dissolving the strawberry Jell-O mix in 1 cup of hot water in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the Jell-O crystals are completely dissolved.

Add cold water and chill: Once the Jell-O is dissolved, add ½ cup of cold water to the mixture. Stir well to combine, then transfer the bowl to the refrigerator to chill until the mixture thickens slightly, usually for about 30 minutes.

Mix in pudding and chill again: After the Jell-O mixture has thickened, remove it from the refrigerator and add the instant vanilla pudding mix. Stir until the pudding mix is fully incorporated into the Jell-O mixture. Return the bowl to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 30 minutes.

Fold in whipped topping: Once the Jell-O and pudding mixture has chilled, gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the fluffy texture.

Add strawberries, pineapple, and marshmallows: Next, add the fresh strawberries (hulled, halved, and sliced), crushed pineapple (drained), and mini marshmallows to the bowl. Gently fold the ingredients into the mixture until everything is well distributed.

Chill for 2 hours: Transfer the completed Strawberry Fluff Salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to set.

Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, your Strawberry Fluff Salad is ready to serve! Spoon it into individual bowls or onto a serving platter and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet strawberries, creamy whipped topping, and fluffy marshmallows.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions: When serving Strawberry Fluff Salad, consider garnishing it with fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance. Serve it chilled in individual bowls or as a colorful addition to a dessert buffet.

Portion Control: This recipe yields approximately 7 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or family dinners. If you’re serving a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to accommodate more guests.

Storage: Store any leftover Strawberry Fluff Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly over time as the fruits release moisture.

Refreshing Leftovers: If the salad becomes slightly watery after refrigeration, simply give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the flavors. You can also add a fresh splash of whipped topping or a handful of mini marshmallows to rejuvenate the salad.

Freezing: While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers for future enjoyment. Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Avoid Freezing Marshmallows: If you plan to freeze the salad, consider adding the marshmallows just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft or mushy.

Related Recipes:

Cheesecake Fluff: A Delicious and Easy No-Bake Dessert Recipe

FAQs:

Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Strawberries?

Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen strawberries for this recipe. If using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the salad. Fresh strawberries will provide a vibrant color and texture, while frozen strawberries can be a convenient option, especially when fresh ones are not in season.

Can I Substitute the Whipped Topping with Homemade Whipped Cream?

While whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) adds a creamy texture and convenience to this recipe, you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream if preferred. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the salad mixture. Keep in mind that homemade whipped cream may not hold its shape as well as whipped topping, so serve the salad promptly after adding it.

Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

Yes, you can prepare Strawberry Fluff Salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. In fact, allowing the salad to chill for a few hours before serving enhances the flavors and texture. However, it’s best to add the marshmallows just before serving to maintain their texture. Store the salad in an airtight container and enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Can I Customize This Recipe with Other Fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite fruits or seasonal varieties. You can add sliced bananas, mandarin oranges, diced peaches, or even blueberries to create your own unique flavor combination. Just be mindful of the texture and moisture content of the fruits you choose to ensure they complement the overall consistency of the salad.

Conclusion:

With its simple preparation and irresistible flavors, this Strawberry Fluff Salad is sure to become a favorite dessert among your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it out today and indulge in the deliciousness of this light and fruity dessert salad!

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