Name: Caramel Apple Fluff
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 cup cold milk; 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed; 3 medium apples, chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional); 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

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I love making this Caramel Apple Fluff when I want something sweet, creamy, and incredibly easy. It’s light yet indulgent, filled with crisp apples, soft marshmallows, and ribbons of caramel folded into a fluffy vanilla base. I find it perfect for potlucks, holiday tables, or anytime I need a quick no-bake dessert that still feels special.

Caramel Apple Fluff

Ingredients

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

1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix

1 cup cold milk

1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed

3 medium apples, chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

1 cup mini marshmallows

½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

Directions

I start by whisking together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk in a large mixing bowl. After about 2 minutes, the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Next, I gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is fully combined and fluffy.

Then I stir in the chopped apples, mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and pecans if I’m using them. I make sure everything is evenly distributed.

I drizzle in the caramel sauce and lightly fold it through the mixture so I get sweet caramel flavor in every spoonful without completely blending it in.

I cover the bowl and refrigerate the fluff for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld together and allows the texture to set nicely.

Right before serving, I like to drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top and sometimes add a few extra apple pieces or pecans for garnish.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes switch up the apples depending on what I have on hand. Tart Granny Smith gives a nice contrast, while Honeycrisp adds extra sweetness and crunch.

If I want more texture, I add extra pecans or even some chopped walnuts. For a sweeter twist, I mix in a handful of toffee bits.

When I’m serving this for fall gatherings, I occasionally sprinkle in a little ground cinnamon for a warm flavor boost.

If I need a nut-free version, I simply leave out the pecans and it’s still just as delicious.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, though I find it’s best within the first 24–48 hours while the apples are still crisp.

Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, I don’t reheat it. I serve it straight from the refrigerator. If it sits for a while, I give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.

FAQs

Can I make Caramel Apple Fluff ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day in advance. I find that chilling it overnight actually enhances the flavor, though I prefer to add the final caramel drizzle just before serving.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

I like to toss the chopped apples in a small splash of lemon juice before mixing them in. This helps slow down browning without affecting the flavor too much.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

I can substitute homemade whipped cream, but I make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so the fluff holds its structure well.

Is this dessert very sweet?

I find it pleasantly sweet but balanced by the tart apples. If I want to reduce the sweetness, I use more tart apples and go lighter on the caramel drizzle.

Can I freeze Caramel Apple Fluff?

I don’t recommend freezing it. The texture changes once thawed, and the apples can become watery and soft.

Conclusion

I turn to this Caramel Apple Fluff whenever I need a dependable, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires minimal effort. The creamy vanilla base, juicy apples, and rich caramel create a combination that I never get tired of serving. Whether I’m bringing it to a holiday gathering or simply making it for my family, I know it will disappear quickly every single time.

📖 Recipe:

Caramel Apple Fluff

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A sweet, creamy no-bake dessert made with fluffy vanilla pudding, crisp apples, marshmallows, pineapple, pecans, and swirls of rich caramel sauce—perfect for potlucks and holiday gatherings.