First of all, thank you. Yes, you—for being here, for loving dessert as much as I do, and for trusting me with your sweet tooth! I’m always honored to share recipes that bring joy, especially ones that deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. And today’s gem? Oh, it’s a keeper: Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff.
If you’ve been searching for something light, creamy, and bursting with tropical goodness, allow me to introduce you to Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff. This easy, no-bake dessert has sunshine in every bite. It’s sweet, cool, and comforting—and it couldn’t be simpler to make.
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What Is Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff?
This dessert is a chilled, fluffy concoction made with just five ingredients and a whole lotta love. Think of it as a tropical version of a classic ambrosia salad. The crushed pineapple brings juicy brightness, the coconut cream pudding adds velvety texture, and the whipped topping makes it all luxuriously airy. It’s refreshing, a little nostalgic, and wildly satisfying.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
No baking required – Perfect for hot days or last-minute guests.
Ready in minutes – A little mixing, a little chilling, and done!
Crowd-pleaser – Great for potlucks, barbecues, or weeknight cravings.
Versatile – You can dress it up with fruit, nuts, or even cookies.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine spooning into a cloud of creamy coconut sweetness with pops of juicy pineapple. It’s light but luscious, tropical but not overpowering. The coconut pudding gives it a silky base, while the shredded coconut adds the perfect chew. The whipped topping brings it all together with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Benefits of This Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff
Quick prep – You don’t need to plan ahead or heat up the kitchen.
Make-ahead friendly – Even better after chilling for a few hours.
Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and no fancy equipment.
Kid-approved – A fun way to introduce tropical flavors in a soft, sweet treat.
Ingredients
1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant coconut cream pudding mix
1 cup shredded coconut
1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Rubber spatula or spoon
Measuring cup
Serving bowls or cups
Plastic wrap or lid for chilling
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
No coconut pudding? Vanilla or banana pudding can work in a pinch.
Add texture: Fold in mini marshmallows, chopped macadamia nuts, or crushed shortbread cookies.
More fruit: Mandarin oranges, diced mango, or banana slices can add a fruity twist.
Less sweet? Try unsweetened coconut flakes or a light whipped topping.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff
Prepare Ingredients: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly so your fluff doesn’t get watery.
Mix Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple, coconut cream pudding mix, shredded coconut, and thawed whipped topping.
Stir Well: Mix until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. No dry spots allowed!
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This lets the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
Serve: Spoon into dessert cups or a trifle bowl.
Garnish (Optional): Top each serving with a maraschino cherry—or a sprinkle of toasted coconut if you’re feeling fancy.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff
As a side: It works beautifully alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork, or burgers.
As dessert: Serve after a light tropical meal like shrimp tacos or poke bowls.
On a buffet: Pairs well with fruit salad, ambrosia, or mini cheesecakes.
Tips for the Best Results
Drain the pineapple well. Excess juice can make the fluff runny.
Chill thoroughly. One hour is good, but two is even better.
Don’t overmix. Gentle folding helps keep the whipped topping fluffy.
Make ahead. It keeps great overnight and tastes even better the next day.
How to Store It
In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing? Not recommended. The texture changes too much when thawed.
General Information
Serving size: Makes about 6 to 8 small dessert portions.
Skill level: Beginner-friendly.
Prep time: 10 minutes.
Chill time: At least 1 hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Fresh pineapple has enzymes that may prevent the pudding from setting properly. If you want to use it, cook the pineapple briefly first to deactivate those enzymes.
What if I can’t find coconut pudding?
Vanilla pudding is a solid substitute. Add a teaspoon of coconut extract for extra flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut whipped topping and a dairy-free pudding mix.
How far in advance can I make it?
You can prepare it a day ahead. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff is everything a summer dessert should be: creamy, cool, quick, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a beach-themed dinner, or just need a tropical pick-me-up, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, with only five ingredients and no oven involved, it’s a win for any skill level.
Craving more fruity desserts? Check out my recipes for Peach Cobbler Dump Cake, No-Bake Peach Cheesecake Jars, and Grilled Peaches with Honey Mascarpone—they’re as easy as they are delicious.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it! Leave a review, snap a photo, and tag me on Pinterest. Let’s keep spreading the joy—one fluffy dessert at a time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 220
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Thanks again for stopping by and sharing in the sweetness. Happy mixing!

Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- - Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple drained
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant coconut cream pudding mix
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping thawed
- maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine crushed pineapple (drained), instant coconut cream pudding mix, shredded coconut, and thawed whipped topping.
- Stir all ingredients together until well combined and creamy.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Spoon the chilled mixture into serving bowls or dessert cups.
- Top with maraschino cherries if desired, and serve chilled.