Heavenly Creamy Fruit Medley
Experience the ultimate blend of creamy and fruity in this Heavenly Creamy Fruit Medley. This delicious dessert combines a medley of tropical fruits and mini marshmallows in a soft vanilla pudding, all gently enveloped in fluffy Cool Whip. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will bring a delightful burst of sweet, refreshing flavors with each bite.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
pineapple chunks
20 oz (reserve juice, do not drain)
fruit cocktail
15 oz (drained)
mandarin oranges
30 oz (2 cans, drained)
bananas
2 (sliced)
miniature marshmallows
2 cups
instant vanilla pudding
3 oz (dry package)
Cool Whip
8 oz (thawed)
Instructions
1
1. Open the can of pineapple chunks, reserving the juice, and pour the pineapple pieces into a large mixing bowl.
2
2. In a small bowl, mix the reserved pineapple juice with the package of dry instant vanilla pudding. Stir until well combined and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow it to thicken.
3
3. Meanwhile, add the drained fruit cocktail, mandarin oranges, sliced bananas, and miniature marshmallows into the bowl with the pineapple.
4
4. Once the pudding mixture has set, gently fold it into the fruit and marshmallow mixture until evenly coated.
5
5. Finally, fold in the thawed Cool Whip, mixing just enough to combine without deflating it.
6
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the fruit medley for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heavenly Creamy Fruit Medley?
It is a sweet and refreshing dessert salad that combines tropical fruits and marshmallows in a creamy vanilla pudding and Cool Whip base.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 8 servings.
How long does the pudding mixture need to chill initially?
The mixture of pineapple juice and dry pudding should be refrigerated for 30 minutes to allow it to thicken.
What is the total recommended chilling time before serving?
The final fruit medley should be refrigerated for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
Do I need to drain the pineapple chunks?
No, you should open the can and reserve the juice to mix with the dry pudding.
Can I use fresh bananas in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for two sliced bananas.
What type of pudding mix is used?
One 3 oz package of dry instant vanilla pudding is required.
Should the Cool Whip be frozen when I add it?
No, the Cool Whip must be thawed before you fold it into the fruit mixture.
Is this a no-bake dessert?
Yes, this recipe requires no cooking or baking.
Can I substitute mandarin oranges?
While mandarin oranges are traditional, you could substitute them with other soft canned citrus or peaches.
What size is the vanilla pudding package?
You should use a 3 oz package of dry instant vanilla pudding.
How should I combine the Cool Whip into the mixture?
Gently fold the Cool Whip in just enough to combine without deflating the airy texture.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it is best made a few hours before serving, though the bananas may soften if left too long.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator.
Can this fruit medley be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended as it will change the texture of the cream and the fruit.
What size marshmallows should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of miniature marshmallows.
Are there any suggested fruit additions?
You can easily add grapes, maraschino cherries, or diced apples for extra variety.
Is the fruit cocktail drained?
Yes, the fruit cocktail should be drained before being added to the bowl.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts are a popular addition for added crunch.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
The acid in the pineapple juice helps, but you can also add them right before the final chilling.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the sweet, creamy flavors and colorful fruit make it very kid-friendly.
What makes this medley tropical?
The combination of pineapple and mandarin oranges provides a distinct tropical flavor.
Can I use sugar-free or fat-free ingredients?
Yes, sugar-free pudding and fat-free Cool Whip can be substituted without issue.
Does this recipe require any cooking?
No, it only involves mixing and chilling, making it very easy to prepare.
What if I don't have enough pineapple juice?
You can substitute orange juice or even a little bit of milk to mix with the pudding.
Can I add coconut?
Yes, shredded coconut is an excellent addition that complements the tropical theme.
What is the final texture of the dish?
The texture is light, fluffy, and creamy with tender pieces of fruit and soft marshmallows.
Can I use real whipped cream?
You can, but Cool Whip is recommended because it maintains its stability and structure longer.
Should this dish be served cold?
Yes, it is intended to be served well-chilled for the best refreshing experience.
Under what category does this recipe fall?
This recipe is categorized as a Dessert.