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When summertime hits, I love bringing this crowd-favorite Millionaire Peach Salad to any potluck or backyard hangout. It's retro, super easy, and always gets all the attention—the creamy sweet base dotted with marshmallows and juicy peaches is one that disappears quick every time.
First time I tried this awesome salad was at my grandma’s picnic at church—it instantly became a comfort classic for me. Now it makes an appearance at all our family get-togethers.
Dreamy Ingredients
- Whipped topping: gives that light fluffy creaminess try the non-dairy type if you want it to stay firm
- Shredded coconut: brings just the right sweet chewiness use the freshest coconut for best texture
- Canned peach slices: chop up and drain for bursts of fruity flavor aim for juicy ripe ones for top taste
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: works as the thickener plus cozy vanilla punch grab a good brand for richer results
- Mini marshmallows: the perfect pillowy bite fresh soft ones really make a difference
- Chopped pecans (optional): chopped halves bring crunch and nutty flavor, but skip if you want nut-free
- Crushed pineapple: drain it well for sweet tang the kind packed in juice is best for natural sugary notes
Easy How-To
- Spoon and Serve:
- Before you scoop, give it another gentle stir. Top with cherries or extra marshmallows if you’re feeling fancy and serve up.
- Get it chilling:
- Stick the big bowl in your fridge and let it sit at least an hour. This gives the pudding time to work its magic and everything blends together.
- Toss in coconut and pecans:
- Sprinkle coconut in and add pecans if you like nuts. Gently fold until it all looks even and tasty—don’t overmix.
- Mix in whipped topping:
- Drop in all your whipped topping. Fold slowly so you get a nice fluffy blend with no dry clumps or unblended patches left.
- Add pudding mix:
- Evenly toss instant pudding right on your fruit. Mix so it gets all over and starts thickening up.
- Combine fruit and mallows:
- In your biggest bowl, mix peaches, pineapple, and marshmallows. Go gentle to keep fruit looking pretty and marshmallows from mushing.
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The marshmallows totally steal the show for me—they soak up all the juicy goodness and get so soft. My sister and I always fought for the spoon with the most marshmallows at family gatherings.
How to Store
Cover leftovers tightly and keep them chilled for up to three days. Before diving in again, stir it lightly to bring back that fluffy feel. Whipped topping keeps it moist and airy way longer than using fresh whipped cream.
Ingredient Swaps
If you’re out of canned peaches, grab some ripe fresh ones when it’s peach season. Not into pecans? Try walnuts or skip nuts if you have allergies. Use Greek yogurt or regular whipped cream for a flavor switch if you’re feeling different.
Serving ideas
Dish it up cold in little parfait glasses for summer parties, or set piles on lettuce leaves for that classic throwback look. Dress it up with maraschino cherries or extra coconut for an eye-catching display.
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Fun Backstory
Back in the mid-1900s, dishes like millionaire salad were must-haves at church dinners and small-town potlucks. The combo of creamy fruit and marshmallows made every meal feel a little more special without breaking the bank. Most families put their own spin on it—including mine!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Swap in fresh peaches if you want. Just peel them and chop enough to get about 2 cups for that juicy, sweet kick.
- → Is the salad better when made ahead?
Let it chill for at least an hour or even overnight. This helps the flavors mix up and gives you a creamier bite.
- → What can I use instead of pecans?
Try walnuts or almonds, or skip nuts if you don't want them. It just tweaks the crunch and flavor a bit.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Give it a soft stir before serving again.
- → Can this salad be served as a dessert?
Yep, it works great as a sweet side or ends any meal nicely with all its creamy fruitiness.