Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff: A Tropical Delight

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Servings: 12
Calories per Serving: 375 kcal

Introduction

Welcome to the sweet and refreshing world of Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff, a delightful dessert that transports your taste buds to the tropics. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and delightful crunch from macadamia nuts, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a touch of paradise.

Ingredients

To create this luscious dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup toasted and cooled macadamia nuts, chopped
  • 2 (3.4 oz) packages 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) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed

Weight Watchers Points

For those following the Weight Watchers program, it’s important to note that this dessert may contain approximately 2 points per serving. However, points can vary based on ingredient modifications. To reduce points, consider using a lighter whipped topping or reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff contains the following nutritional information:

  • Calories: 375 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 57 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 8 mg
  • Sodium: 272 mg
  • Potassium: 21 mg
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 37 g
  • Vitamin A: 1 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1 mg
  • Calcium: 5 mg
  • Iron: 1 mg

Preparation Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will prepare it for toasting the macadamia nuts, enhancing their flavor.
  2. Toast the Macadamia Nuts
    Spread the chopped macadamia nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven and toast for about 4-6 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
  3. Mix the Pudding Base
    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the coconut cream instant pudding mix with the two cans of crushed pineapple (do not drain). Add the sweetened condensed milk to the mixture. Stir until the instant pudding mix is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Incorporate the Add-Ins
    Carefully fold in the maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, thawed whipped topping, and the toasted macadamia nuts. Be gentle to maintain the light and airy texture of the whipped topping. Reserve about 1/2 cup of whipped topping and 1 tablespoon of nuts for garnishing later.
  5. Chill the Fluff
    Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the fluff to set properly.
  6. Garnish and Serve
    When ready to serve, take the fluff out of the refrigerator. Transfer it to a serving dish or individual cups. Garnish with the reserved whipped topping, chopped macadamia nuts, and maraschino cherries. This adds a beautiful touch and enhances the tropical aesthetic of the dessert.

Tips for Success

  • Choosing Pudding Mix: If you cannot find coconut cream pudding mix, feel free to substitute it with cheesecake or white chocolate-flavored pudding mix. To enhance the coconut flavor, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of coconut extract and a loosely packed cup of flaked coconut.
  • Nut Alternatives: If you prefer, you can swap macadamia nuts with pecans or walnuts, depending on your taste preference.
  • Storage: This dessert is best enjoyed within a few days of preparation. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that evokes the warmth of the Hawaiian islands. With its creamy texture, bursts of fruit flavor, and delightful crunch, it is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this fluff brings a taste of tropical bliss to your table. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t forget to share the joy of this delightful treat with your loved ones!