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Creamy Fruit Salad with Vanilla Pudding

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A quick and refreshing summer dessert combining fresh fruit with a smooth vanilla pudding base for a light yet indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3.4 oz (96 g) instant vanilla pudding mix (e.g., Jell-O or Kozy Shack)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole or 2% milk (dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk can be used)
  • 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
  • 1 cup seedless grapes, halved (red or green)
  • 1 medium banana, sliced (add last to avoid browning)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or powdered sugar (optional, depending on fruit sweetness)
  • Optional extras: chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups (480 ml) of cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  2. If desired, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the pudding sit for 5 minutes to firm up.
  3. While the pudding sets, rinse and prepare the fruit: hull and slice strawberries, halve grapes, drain pineapple chunks, and slice the banana just before combining.
  4. Taste the pudding mixture and add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or powdered sugar if additional sweetness is desired. Stir gently to combine.
  5. In a large bowl, gently fold together the prepared pudding and all fruit except the banana.
  6. Carefully fold in the banana slices last to avoid mushiness.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and pudding thicken.
  8. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Notes

Add banana slices last to prevent browning and mushiness. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow pudding to thicken and flavors to meld. Use instant pudding mix for quick preparation and smooth texture. For crunch, add toasted nuts just before serving. Adjust sweetness based on fruit ripeness.

Nutrition

Keywords: fruit salad, vanilla pudding, summer dessert, easy dessert, creamy fruit salad, quick dessert, refreshing dessert

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