Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cookie Salad is a delightful, versatile dessert that combines the sweetness of fruit with a creamy, indulgent texture, making it a hit at any gathering. With minimal prep time and a perfect balance of fruity freshness and chocolatey crunch, it’s a go-to for potlucks, family meals, and parties. You can serve it as a salad or dessert, and it even works as a fun, layered parfait.

Ingredients

• 2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 12 ounces frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed

• 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained

• 2 (11 ounce) cans mandarin oranges, drained

• ½ (11.5 ounce) package fudge stripe cookies

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Gather all the ingredients for the salad.

2. In a large bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix and buttermilk. Stir well until the mixture thickens.

3. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until everything is smooth and well-mixed.

4. Add the drained pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges into the bowl, mixing gently to incorporate.

5. Cover the bowl and chill the mixture until you’re ready to serve.

6. Just before serving, crush the fudge stripe cookies and fold them into the salad.

7. If preferred, you can also serve the salad as a pie by pouring the mixture into a graham cracker or cookie crust. Let it chill before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes (not including chilling time)

Variations

• Different Cookies: Experiment with other cookies like Nilla wafers, Oreos, or even Twix for a more decadent version.

• Fruit Options: Try adding fresh fruits like bananas or strawberries for added flavor and texture. You can also swap canned mandarin oranges with fresh ones.

• Vegan: For a vegan option, replace the whipped topping with a dairy-free alternative, use almond milk instead of buttermilk, and opt for vegan cookies.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cookie salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The cookies may soften more over time.

• Reheating: Since this recipe is served chilled, there’s no need to reheat it. Just serve it straight from the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cookie Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just wait to add the cookies until right before serving to keep them crunchy.

2. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes! You can replace canned pineapple and mandarin oranges with fresh fruit like pineapple chunks or oranges. Just make sure to drain any excess juice.

3. What other cookies can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other types of cookies like Nilla wafers, graham crackers, or chocolate chip cookies for different flavors.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free cookies and make sure the instant pudding mix and whipped topping are also gluten-free.

5. Can I freeze Cookie Salad?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 2 months. However, the texture of the cookies may change once frozen and thawed.

6. Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute fresh whipped cream for the frozen whipped topping, but it may slightly alter the texture.

7. How long will Cookie Salad last in the fridge?

Cookie salad can last for 2-3 days in the refrigerator, but the cookies may get soggy over time.

8. Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Absolutely! Vanilla pudding is traditional, but you can experiment with flavors like chocolate, banana, or even coconut for a unique twist.

9. Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar to create a similar tangy effect.

10. Can I serve Cookie Salad in individual cups?

Yes, serving Cookie Salad in individual cups or parfait glasses is a great idea, especially for parties or potlucks. Layer the fruit mixture and cookies for a pretty presentation.

Conclusion

Cookie Salad is a simple yet delicious dessert that’s perfect for all kinds of occasions. With its creamy texture, fruity flavors, and satisfying crunch from the cookies, it’s a dessert everyone will love. Whether served as a salad or layered into parfaits, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch it disappear!