Caramel Apple Fluff Recipe
Caramel Apple Fluff is a decadent, no-bake dessert blending the tart sweetness of fresh apples, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and luscious caramel sauce. Enhanced with crushed pineapple and mini marshmallows, this dessert offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors perfect for gatherings or cozy nights.
- Author: Rami
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 medium apples, chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Optional Add-ons
- Chopped Snickers or other candy bars
- Cinnamon (1 tsp recommended)
- Shredded coconut (about ¼ cup)
- Almonds or hazelnuts as alternative nuts (½ cup)
- Prepare the Apples: Chop the apples into approximately half-inch cubes and toss them with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in a bowl to prevent browning and add a subtle tang.
- Make the Caramel Sauce (Optional): If making homemade caramel, melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown. Carefully whisk in butter and cream until smooth, then let cool slightly. Store-bought caramel sauce can be used to save time.
- Mix Pudding Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix with 1 cup of cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed 8 oz whipped topping into the pudding mixture using a spatula to maintain a light, airy texture.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, prepared apples, mini marshmallows, ½ cup caramel sauce, and nuts if using, gently combining all elements.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the fluff for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle extra caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with additional nuts or mini marshmallows for garnish.
Notes
- Chilling the fluff overnight enhances the flavor infusion and texture.
- Use fresh, crisp apples for the best crunch and taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to customize by adding cinnamon, chopped candy bars, shredded coconut, or different nuts.
Keywords: Caramel Apple Fluff, no-bake dessert, caramel dessert, apple dessert, pudding fluff, easy dessert recipe, holiday dessert, picnic dessert