Description
This tropical treat is a true summer staple, blending the sweetness of pineapple with the lightness of whipped cream for a dessert that melts in your mouth.
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 cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained well (reserve 2 tbsp juice)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Whipped cream, maraschino cherries, toasted coconut flakes, crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preparing a large mixing bowl. If you’re using cream cheese, ensure it’s softened by letting it sit at room temperature for a bit. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the cream cheese until it becomes creamy and smooth. If you prefer cottage cheese for a lighter texture, blend it until it’s smooth. This process is crucial as it lays the foundation for your fluff!
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and the reserved pineapple juice to your creamy base. Blend thoroughly until the mixture is consistent and thick—this adds body to your fluff. The pudding mix provides sweetness and a delicious vanilla flavor that perfectly complements the tropical notes.
- Next up is the hero ingredient: the crushed pineapple! Gently fold in the drained pineapple to keep its chunky texture, enhancing the fluff’s light quality. Now, it’s time to add the star of the show, the Cool Whip. This step requires a gentle hand; fold it into the mixture until it’s just combined to retain that airy, fluffy consistency that makes this dessert so special.
- Now you can mix in the mini marshmallows, coconut, and nuts if you’re using them. These ingredients add texture and flavor contrasts to the fluff. Once everything is combined, it’s time to let the mixture rest in the refrigerator!
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or even overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and lets the fluff set up nicely. When you’re ready to serve, gently fluff it again with a spatula, adding a swirl of whipped cream, cherries, and any additional toppings of your choice for garnishing. Now your Creamy Cool Whip Pineapple Fluff is ready to wow your guests!
Notes
Ensure your Cool Whip is thoroughly thawed—this ensures a smooth and creamy consistency. Be cautious while folding; avoid over-stirring to keep the texture light and airy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 4 g