Great aunt Edna called this her signature dish and refused to share how she made it. So glad I figured out the magic combination!
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters who don’t like texture, skip the coconut and marshmallows and stick to the basic three ingredients—crushed pineapple, vanilla pudding, and whipped topping. You can also use sugar-free instant vanilla pudding and light whipped topping if you’re watching sugar or calories; just know the flavor will be a bit less rich. If your family loves extra pineapple, stir in an additional 1/2 cup of well-drained crushed pineapple. For a fun twist, fold in a handful of drained mandarin orange segments or sliced strawberries right before chilling. To make it look a little dressier for company, spoon the fluff into individual clear glasses or small mason jars and top with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a single cherry. If you need to make it ahead, prepare it up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the fridge—just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.