Fluffy Orange Fruit Salad

I recently adapted a recipe to Rich's and my taste. It turned out great! It is different from any recipe I currently have so it is a welcomed addition. You will note two sets of quantities. One set for for the "empty nesters" while the other is the traditional quantity.


1 large box cook & serve vanilla pudding (small)
1 large box orange jello (small)
2 cups water (1 cup)
8 oz. cool whip (4 oz)
1 can pineapple tidbits - any size depending on preference (small)
1 can mandarin oranges - any size depending on preference (small)
2 sliced bananas (1)

Combine jello mix, pudding mix and water in a sauce pan over medium heat stirring until comes to a boil.
Remove mixture from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl and refrigerate until thickened (about 1 hour).
Beat thickened jello/pudding with an electric mixer until fluffy.
Stir in the Cool Whip, then add fruit.