Description

Craving a light, fruity dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat? Say hello to Strawberry Fluff! This no-bake, creamy treat combines strawberry jello, vanilla pudding, whipped topping, fresh strawberries, pineapple, and mini marshmallows for a fluffy, crowd-pleasing dessert salad.

Ingredients

This fluff comes together with a handful of ingredients that create a creamy, fruity dessert. Here’s what you need and why each matters:

Strawberry Jello Mix (3 oz): Provides a bold strawberry flavor and helps set the mixture.
Boiling Water (1 cup): Dissolves the jello for a smooth base.
Crushed Ice (1 cup): Cools the jello mixture quickly to speed up prep.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (3.4 oz): Adds creaminess and structure to the fluff.
Whipped Topping (8 oz, Cool Whip, thawed): Creates a light, fluffy texture.
Fresh Strawberries (16 oz, quartered, about 2 cups): Add fresh, juicy fruit flavor and texture.
Crushed Pineapple (8 oz, drained): Brings a tangy, tropical sweetness.
Mini Marshmallows (2 cups): Add a soft, chewy texture and extra sweetness.

Substitutions and Variations

Jello: Use sugar-free strawberry jello or try raspberry or mixed berry jello for a different flavor.
Pudding Mix: Swap for cheesecake or white chocolate pudding mix for a richer taste.
Whipped Topping: Substitute with 2 cups homemade whipped cream (whip 1 cup heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form).
Fruit: Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries, or use canned mandarin oranges instead of pineapple.
Marshmallows: Omit for a less sweet version or use flavored mini marshmallows for fun.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free whipped topping and ensure the jello and pudding mix are dairy-free.

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Instructions

Prepare the Jello Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the 3 oz package of strawberry jello mix and 1 cup boiling water. Whisk until the jello is fully dissolved (about 1–2 minutes).
- Add 1 cup crushed ice and stir until the ice is melted and the mixture cools to room temperature (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the Pudding Mix:
- Whisk in the 3.4 oz package of instant vanilla pudding mix until thoroughly combined and the mixture thickens (about 1 minute).
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes to chill and set slightly.
Incorporate the Whipped Topping:
- Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and fold in the 8 oz thawed Cool Whip using a spatula until fully combined and no streaks remain.
Add the Mix-Ins:
- Gently stir in 16 oz quartered fresh strawberries, 8 oz drained crushed pineapple, and 2 cups mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
Chill:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the fluff to set.
Serve:
- Spoon the fluff into bowls or dessert cups. Serve chilled for the best texture.

Cooking Tips

Cool Jello Properly: Ensure the jello mixture is cooled before adding pudding to prevent curdling or separation.
Drain Pineapple Well: Pat the drained pineapple with paper towels to remove excess moisture and keep the fluff from becoming watery.
Gentle Folding: Fold the whipped topping and mix-ins carefully to maintain the fluff’s airy texture.
Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to ensure the fluff sets and the flavors blend.