Description
A light, creamy dessert salad packed with tropical pineapple flavor, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (8-ounce) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cottage cheese or 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained well
- 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Whipped cream for garnish
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
- Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
- Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the Pineapple – Open the can of crushed pineapple and drain thoroughly, reserving 2 tablespoons of juice.
- Prepare the Creamy Base – Beat cream cheese until smooth (or blend cottage cheese). Mix in the pudding mix, reserved juice, vanilla extract, and salt until creamy.
- Add the Pineapple – Fold the drained pineapple into the cream mixture until evenly distributed.
- Fold in the Cool Whip – Gently add the Cool Whip and fold until light and fluffy without deflating.
- Add Mix-Ins – Fold in mini marshmallows, coconut, and nuts until evenly incorporated.
- Taste and Adjust – If desired, add powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Chill – Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Garnish and Serve – Lightly stir before serving and top with whipped cream, cherries, toasted coconut, and crushed cookies. Serve cold.
Notes
Ensure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent a watery texture. Chill for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Pineapple Fluff, No-Bake Dessert, Easy Dessert, Summer Dessert, Dessert Salad