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Pineapple Fluff is a light and creamy no-bake dessert recipe that comes together in minutes. It’s made with a delicious blend of crushed pineapple, cream cheese, instant vanilla pudding, whipped topping, marshmallows, and shredded coconut – perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
I love a good fluff “salad.” From ambrosia salad to Watergate salad, these delicious fruit salads are my go-to when I’m in charge of dessert, but I’m too lazy to bake.
What is a “Fluff” Dessert?
“Fluff” in the context of desserts refers to a light and creamy dish made by combining whipped topping with pudding mix and cream cheese to create an airy, mousse-like consistency. Super easy to make and transport, they’re a popular Midwestern dessert or side dish served at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Find the printable recipe with measurements in the recipe card below.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Thickens, flavors, and adds a creamy, smooth texture. Vanilla is most commonly used, but other flavors, like banana, can be substituted.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture, helping to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Whipped Cream or Cool Whip: Adds a light and airy texture, adding volume to the overall dessert.
- Crushed Pineapple: Tropical flavoring and sweetness. The juice moistens the pudding mix and flavors the overall dessert.
- Mini Marshmallows: Adds sweetness and texture.
- Shredded Coconut: Pairs really well with the pineapple flavor.
Optional additions: Chopped walnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, almonds, sugar, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, bananas, or flavorings like vanilla extract.
How to Make Pineapple Fluff
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese using a hand mixer until light and fluffy, then add the pudding mix and crushed pineapple and mix until combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping, marshmallows, and coconut, then cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Serve with pineapple tidbits, chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and additional marshmallows, if desired.
Can You Make Pineapple Fluff Ahead of Time?
It’s recommended to make this 1-2 hours ahead of time and then chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Although you can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance, you run the risk of it getting watery.
Storing Leftovers
Since pineapple fluff is a whipped dessert, it’s best to enjoy it as soon after making it as possible. If you do have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The longer they sit in the refrigerator, the greater the chance that the whipped cream will fall flat and it will become runny.
More Fruit Salads
If you try making this Pineapple Fluff Salad Recipe, please leave me a comment and let me know! I always love to hear your thoughts.
Pineapple Fluff Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple
- 8 ounces whipped topping, (like Cool Whip)
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded coconut, sweetened
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese using a hand mixer until light and fluffy, then add the pudding mix and crushed pineapple and mix until combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping, marshmallows, and coconut, then cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Serve with pineapple tidbits, chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and additional marshmallows, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
