Cool Whip Pineapple Fluff

Here’s a detailed recipe for Cool Whip Pineapple Fluff, a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer or any occasion!

Ingredients:

• 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese (softened)

• 1 (20 oz) can of crushed pineapple (drained, but save the juice)

• 1 (12 oz) tub of Cool Whip (thawed)

• 1 (5.1 oz) box of instant vanilla pudding mix

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra texture and flavor)

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• 1/4 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pineapple:

   • Open the can of crushed pineapple, and drain it well. Make sure to save about 1/4 cup of the juice for later.

2. Mix the Cream Cheese and Pudding:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth using an electric mixer or a whisk.

   • Add the box of instant vanilla pudding mix into the cream cheese and beat until it’s fully combined. The pudding will help thicken the fluff and add extra flavor.

3. Add Pineapple Juice:

   • Slowly pour in about 1/4 cup of the reserved pineapple juice from the can and mix it into the cream cheese-pudding mixture. This will add extra pineapple flavor and make the mixture more smooth.

4. Fold in Cool Whip:

   • Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip. This should be done carefully, so you don’t lose all of the fluffiness. The Cool Whip gives the dessert its light and airy texture, so make sure it’s fully combined without deflating it.

5. Add Pineapple and Marshmallows:

   • Fold in the drained crushed pineapple and mini marshmallows. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. If you’re using shredded coconut or nuts, you can fold those in at this point too, if desired.

6. Chill and Serve:

   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight if you have time). The longer it chills, the better the flavors will combine.

7. Serve:

   • Once chilled, give the Pineapple Fluff a quick stir before serving. Scoop into bowls or serve straight from the mixing bowl. You can also garnish with a little extra coconut or chopped nuts if you’d like!

Optional Variations:

• Add more fruit: You can stir in diced fruit like mandarin oranges, strawberries, or even cherries to make it even fruitier.

• Change up the flavor: Use a different flavor of instant pudding (like cheesecake or coconut cream) for a fun twist.

• Add a crunchy topping: If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer cookies on top just before serving.