Description
A delightful and refreshing Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff dessert featuring toasted macadamia nuts, creamy coconut pudding, juicy pineapples, sweet maraschino cherries, and fluffy marshmallows, blended together with whipped topping for a tropical treat perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
Nut Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts (toasted and cooled)
Main Ingredients
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes coconut cream instant pudding mix
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (16 oz) jar maraschino cherries, well drained
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (16 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
Instructions
- Toast the Macadamia Nuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped macadamia nuts evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 4 to 6 minutes, watching carefully to ensure they don’t burn. Once done, remove and let them cool completely to preserve their crunch and flavor.
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the two boxes of coconut cream instant pudding mix, the 20 oz can of crushed pineapple (with juice), the 8 oz can of crushed pineapple (with juice), and the sweetened condensed milk. Stir thoroughly until the pudding mix has fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Do not drain the pineapple juice as it adds moisture and flavor.
- Fold in Additional Ingredients: Gently fold into the pudding mixture the well-drained maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, thawed whipped topping, and the cooled toasted macadamia nuts. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined. Hold back about 1/2 cup of whipped topping and 1 tablespoon of nuts for garnishing later.
- Chill the Dessert: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to a sealed container. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set, resulting in a fluffy and decadent dessert.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the fluff with the reserved whipped topping, toasted macadamia nuts, and a few maraschino cherries to add visual appeal and extra texture. Serve chilled and enjoy this tropical treat!
Notes
- Make sure to toast the macadamia nuts evenly to enhance their flavor without burning.
- Do not drain the pineapple juice as it contributes to the dessert’s creamy texture.
- Use well-drained maraschino cherries to prevent excess liquid in the fluff.
- This dessert tastes best after chilling for a minimum of 4 hours, but can be refrigerated overnight.
- For a nut-free version, omit the macadamia nuts and replace with toasted coconut flakes if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
