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This easy Pineapple Fluff recipe is a no-bake fluffy dessert salad that’s done in under 10 minutes! Sweet pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, crunchy nuts – it’s a classic retro side dish or dessert.
This pineapple fluff recipe combines so many delicious ingredients to create a dessert salad. Fluff Salad is a traditional side dish for family gatherings and potlucks. The whipped topping mixes with the vanilla instant pudding to create a light and fluffy base that is then mixed with cherries and nuts and marshmallows.
How to make Pineapple Fluff
- Start with Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix; You really can use any flavor you want, just make sure it’s instant pudding mix.
- Crushed Pineapple from a can (with the liquid) is what makes the pudding. You can also use pineapple tidbits in juice (but I wouldn’t use pineapple chunks).
- I use Cool Whip for the creaminess (you can use fresh whipped cream but the salad won’t last as long).
- Mini marshmallows are the best because they’re small and bite size, and I also add Chopped Nuts (pecans or walnuts), coconut, and Maraschino Cherries
- Stir the dry pudding mix together with the pineapple and juice first to make the pudding – that way it can soft set – then fold in the whipped topping and add ins.
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Expert Tips
- Use whatever nuts you like best, but pecan and walnuts are the traditional choice. Macadamia nuts would taste delicious as well!
- Dry the cherries before adding into the recipe to avoid extra sogginess.
- If there is an add-in that you do not like, feel free to exchange it or skip!
Storage and Make Ahead
This gets better the longer it sits so you can easily make it ahead of time, up to 2 days. Store in an airtight container or covered in plastic wrap in the fridge for 3-4 days. I do not recommend freezing it.
Pineapple Fluff Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple with juices
- 1 3.4 ounce box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 8-ounce container whipped topping
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped nuts
- ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Place pineapple with juices in a large bowl. Add vanilla pudding and stir until combined.
- Fold in whipped topping.
- Add marshmallows, coconut, nuts, and cherries and stir. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
Recipe Notes
- You can make this up to a day ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Use any kind of nuts you like, traditionally it’s pecans or walnuts.
- Get cherries without stems for easier chopping.
Recipe Nutrition
Variations
- You can use any fruit you like in fluff salad, like bananas or strawberries.
- If you use pistachio pudding mix you get Watergate salad!
- Fluff is kind of like ambrosia salad, but that one is usually made with cottage cheese or sour cream.
I don’t know if I’m understanding the recipe right? Do I not make the pudding as usual just put it in the bowl with the pineapple with the juice stirred up that’s what will make the pudding.
Yes that’s correct – no milk – the juices make the pudding.
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