Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff – A Creamy, No-Bake Tropical Dessert

Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff is more than just a dessert — it’s a spoonful of sunshine, a gentle escape to a tropical island with every creamy bite. Light, airy, and luxuriously smooth, this no-bake treat combines sweet pineapple, rich coconut cream, buttery macadamia nuts, and fluffy marshmallows into a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light.

This beloved recipe has become a staple at summer gatherings, holiday potlucks, backyard barbecues, and family celebrations because it delivers big flavor with almost no effort. There’s no oven required, no complicated steps, and no long prep time — just easy mixing, gentle folding, and a little chill time in the refrigerator.

It’s creamy without being heavy, sweet without being overwhelming, and nostalgic without feeling old-fashioned. Whether you serve it after dinner, bring it to a party, or enjoy it straight from the fridge, this tropical fluff is guaranteed to bring smiles.

Why Everyone Loves Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff

No baking required — perfect for warm days or busy schedules
Light, creamy, and refreshing
Ideal for make-ahead desserts
Customizable with fruits, nuts, or extra coconut
Always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and parties

Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

½ cup macadamia nuts (toasted & chopped) — Adds buttery crunch and authentic Hawaiian flavor. Toasting enhances their richness.
2 (3.4 oz) packages coconut cream instant pudding mix — The creamy coconut base that thickens the dessert and provides silky texture.
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice — Adds sweetness, brightness, and tropical freshness.
1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice — Boosts pineapple flavor while keeping the texture balanced.
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk — Creates a smooth, rich sweetness that binds everything together.
1 (16 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained — Adds pops of color and gentle fruity sweetness.
3 cups mini marshmallows — Provides the signature fluffy texture and absorbs the flavors as it chills.

How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff

Toast the macadamia nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast chopped macadamia nuts for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Let cool.
Mix the base: In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut cream pudding mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and thickened.
Fold in the mix-ins: Gently fold in the marshmallows, cherries, and cooled macadamia nuts.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld and texture to set.
Serve cold: Spoon into dessert bowls or a trifle dish and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Fluff

Drain cherries well to prevent excess liquid.
Chill at least 2 hours — the texture improves dramatically after resting.
For extra coconut flavor, add a handful of toasted coconut flakes.
Swap macadamia nuts for pecans or almonds if needed.
Serve in a glass bowl or trifle dish for beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff:

As a light dessert after grilled meals
Alongside summer barbecue dishes
At holiday buffets and potlucks
As a sweet brunch side with pastries and fruit

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff is proof that the simplest recipes often create the most joy. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you get a dessert that feels special, comforting, and irresistibly delicious.

It’s creamy, fruity, fluffy, and refreshing — the kind of dessert people remember and request again and again. If you’re looking for a no-bake tropical dessert that always impresses, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Make it once, and you’ll understand why this fluff has stood the test of time.