If you’re dreaming of a sweet and creamy dessert that dazzles at potlucks yet is secretly simple to throw together, Millionaire Peach Salad is the answer to your cravings. This retro-inspired fruit fluff is a beautiful mix of luscious peaches, pillow-soft marshmallows, nutty pecans, and tangy cream cheese, all lightly suspended in a vanilla-scented cloud. Whether you serve it as a crowd-pleasing side or show-stopping finish to dinner, Millionaire Peach Salad is always the dish that disappears first—and the one you’ll get recipe requests for long after the bowls are scraped clean.

Millionaire Peach Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is one of those magical recipes where you let each ingredient do the heavy lifting. Every element—from the juicy fruits to the creamy mix-ins—brings something wonderful to both the texture and the burst of flavor you get in every bite.

Instant vanilla pudding mix: Adds sweetness and a rich vanilla flavor while giving the salad its signature fluffiness.
Crushed pineapple (undrained): Brings tartness, moisture, and a pop of tropical flavor that balances the richness.
Frozen whipped topping, thawed: Folds into the mix for that ultra-light, billowy texture everyone loves.
Cream cheese, softened: Delivers creamy tang and a slight cheesecake note to make this salad taste truly indulgent.
Sliced peaches, drained and chopped: The star ingredient gives bursts of sweet, juicy flavor in every forkful.
Mini marshmallows: Add soft, chewy bites that are both fun and nostalgic.
Chopped pecans (optional): For those who crave a little crunch and nutty depth to offset all that creamy sweetness.

How to Make Millionaire Peach Salad

Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese

Begin by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Beat it until it’s completely smooth and free of any lumps. Taking a minute for this step guarantees that your Millionaire Peach Salad base will be velvety and luscious.

Step 2: Add Pudding Mix and Pineapple

Next, sprinkle in the instant vanilla pudding mix and pour in the entire can of crushed pineapple, including all its juice. Mix everything thoroughly until these ingredients are completely combined. The pineapple juice helps dissolve the pudding mix, creating a creamy, flavorful foundation.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping

With a gentle hand, fold the thawed whipped topping into the mixture. This step adds a wonderful lightness and ensures the salad stays airy and melt-in-your-mouth. Keep folding until it looks uniform and beautifully pale in color.

Step 4: Add Peaches, Marshmallows, and Pecans

Now, gently stir in the chopped peaches, mini marshmallows, and pecans if you’re using them. Make sure everything is evenly distributed, but be careful not to overmix; you want those peach chunks to stay intact.

Step 5: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld

Cover the bowl and refrigerate your Millionaire Peach Salad for at least two hours. This chill time allows all those flavors to blend and the marshmallows to soften, turning the mixture into creamy, fruity perfection.

How to Serve Millionaire Peach Salad

Garnishes

Show off this salad’s summery charm with simple but stunning garnishes. A few extra peach slices on top, a scattering of pecans, or even a handful of mini marshmallows will make your Millionaire Peach Salad look irresistible and ready for its close-up.

Side Dishes

This sweet salad is a wonderful companion to classic cookout or potluck fare. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or even salty ham. It’s also a delightful contrast to savory casseroles and vegetable sides.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fancy, spoon Millionaire Peach Salad into individual parfait glasses for a layered dessert look, or pile it high in a trifle bowl for a dramatic centerpiece. Dollop it onto mini tart shells for a dessert bite or let it star in mason jars at your next picnic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover Millionaire Peach Salad tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually get better as they mingle, and the texture stays perfectly creamy.

Freezing

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing, as the creamy base and marshmallows don’t retain their texture after thawing. If you do need to freeze, expect some separation and a softer texture once defrosted.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this fuss-free salad is best served chilled straight from the fridge. If it’s been sitting out for a while, a quick stir will restore its fluffiness before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?

Absolutely! During peach season, substitute fresh, ripe peaches for the canned ones. Peel and chop them before adding for the most summery, juicy flavor ever in your Millionaire Peach Salad.

Is there a way to make this lighter?

Yes! Swap in light cream cheese, sugar-free pudding, and light whipped topping. The salad still feels indulgent, but with a few less calories and grams of sugar per serving.

Can I make Millionaire Peach Salad ahead of time?

Definitely. In fact, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. Just wait to add garnishes until just before serving for the freshest look.

What if someone is allergic to nuts?

No problem—simply leave out the pecans. The salad is every bit as delicious and crowd-pleasing without them, so everyone can enjoy a scoop (or two).

Can I use different pudding flavors?

Of course! While vanilla is classic for Millionaire Peach Salad, French vanilla or cheesecake pudding mixes are both tasty alternatives that blend beautifully with the peaches and pineapple.

Final Thoughts

If you love fruity, creamy desserts that pile on the flavor and nostalgia with every bite, this Millionaire Peach Salad is calling your name. Gather up these simple ingredients, whisk a little magic together, and watch it become an instant family favorite at your next get-together!

Millionaire Peach Salad Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the lusciousness of Millionaire Peach Salad, a delightful dessert or side dish that combines creamy textures with fruity sweetness for a truly decadent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Creamy Base:

1 box (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed

Fruit Mixture:

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 can (29 ounces) sliced peaches, drained and chopped
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) and mix until well combined.
Incorporate Whipped Topping: Fold in whipped topping until fully incorporated.
Add Fruit Mixture: Gently stir in chopped peaches, mini marshmallows, and pecans if using.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For a lighter version, use light cream cheese, sugar-free pudding mix, and light whipped topping.
You can also substitute fresh peaches when in season.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert, Side Dish
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American