Name: strawberry-fluff-salad
Prep time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ounces strawberry Jell-O Mix (1 box).; 1 cup hot water.; 1/2 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).

Indulge in the refreshing sweetness of this Strawberry Fluff Salad, a perfect blend of fresh strawberries, crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows, all enveloped in a creamy strawberry-vanilla mixture. This dessert is light, fluffy, and bursting with fruity flavor, making it an ideal choice for any gathering or as a sweet treat on a warm day. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite among family and friends. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a delightful dessert to enjoy at home, this Strawberry Fluff Salad is sure to impress.

This Strawberry Fluff Salad is a sweet and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining the tartness of fresh strawberries with the creamy goodness of whipped topping and the unique texture of mini marshmallows, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

INGREDIENTS

Strawberry Jell-O Mix: 3 ounces (1 box), forms the base of the salad with a fruity flavor and vibrant color.
Hot Water: 1 cup, used to dissolve the Jell-O mix and activate the flavors.
Cold Water: 1/2 cup, helps cool down the Jell-O mixture and sets the base for the salad.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: 3.4 ounces (1 box), adds a creamy and rich texture to the salad.
Whipped Topping (Cool Whip): 8 ounces (1 tub), folded into the mixture to create a light and airy texture.
Fresh Strawberries: 24 ounces, hulled, halved, and sliced, providing fresh, juicy bursts of flavor.
Crushed Pineapple: 20 ounces, drained, adds a tropical sweetness to the mix.
Mini Marshmallows: 10 ounces (1 bag), add a soft, pillowy texture that makes each bite delightful.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O mix in 1 cup of hot water, stirring until the powder is completely dissolved. Add 1/2 cup of cold water and stir to combine. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill for 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture begins to set slightly.
Step 2:: After chilling, remove the bowl from the refrigerator and add the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk the pudding mix into the Jell-O until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3:: Return the bowl to the refrigerator and chill for another 15-20 minutes. This will allow the mixture to thicken slightly and develop a creamy texture.
Step 4:: Once the mixture has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Fold in the Cool Whip using a rubber spatula, gently stirring until no streaks of white remain. This will create a light, fluffy base for the salad.
Step 5:: Add the hulled, halved, and sliced fresh strawberries, drained crushed pineapple, and mini marshmallows to the bowl. Fold these ingredients into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
Step 6:: Place the bowl back in the refrigerator and chill for an additional 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the cream to thicken, creating a rich, satisfying dessert.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Strawberry Fluff Salad chilled for the best flavor and texture. It's perfect as a refreshing dessert on a warm day.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly more watery over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving.
This salad pairs wonderfully with a side of shortbread cookies or a slice of pound cake for a more indulgent dessert experience.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the salad before chilling.

Helpful Notes

You can substitute the strawberry Jell-O mix with another flavor, like raspberry or cherry, for a different twist.
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of mini marshmallows or leave them out altogether.
Quotes: "This Strawberry Fluff Salad is the perfect combination of fruity, creamy, and light—a real crowd-pleaser!"

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Jamie suggests using freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping for a richer flavor.
Chef Ina recommends adding a splash of lemon juice to the Jell-O mixture to balance the sweetness with a hint of tartness.
Chef Martha advises serving the salad in individual dessert cups for an elegant presentation at parties.