Step-by-Step Instructions for Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff

Let me walk you through the incredibly simple process of creating this tropical Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff that will transport your taste buds to paradise.

Step 1: Toast the Coconut

Before you begin assembling your fluff, you’ll want to toast the coconut for the topping. This step is optional but highly recommended—toasting transforms the coconut from simply sweet to complex and nutty, adding incredible depth to your Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread one cup of sweetened shredded coconut in an even layer on a baking sheet. You can line the sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup, though it’s not necessary.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the coconut for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes to ensure even browning. Watch it carefully during the last few minutes—coconut can go from perfectly golden to burned very quickly.

The coconut is ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown color and becomes fragrant. Remove it from the oven and transfer it immediately to a plate to cool. If you leave it on the hot baking sheet, it will continue cooking and may burn.

Set the toasted coconut aside to cool completely while you prepare the rest of your Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff.

Step 2: Combine the Pineapple and Pudding Mix

Open your can of crushed pineapple—remember, do not drain it. The juice is essential for this recipe. Pour the entire contents of the can, including all the juice, into a large mixing bowl.

Sprinkle the instant vanilla pudding mix directly over the undrained pineapple. Using a large spoon or rubber spatula, stir the pudding mix into the pineapple and juice. Continue stirring for about 2 minutes.

You’ll notice the mixture starting to thicken as you stir. The pudding mix absorbs the pineapple juice and begins to set, creating a creamy base for your Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff. The mixture should become noticeably thicker and more cohesive. If it seems too thin, let it sit for a minute or two—the pudding will continue thickening on its own.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Make sure your whipped topping is completely thawed. Cold, frozen whipped topping won’t fold in smoothly and will create lumps in your Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff.

Add the entire 8-ounce container of whipped topping to the pineapple-pudding mixture. Using a large rubber spatula, gently fold the whipped topping into the mixture using smooth, sweeping motions. Start from the bottom of the bowl, lift upward, and fold over the top.

This folding technique is important—if you stir too vigorously, you’ll deflate the whipped topping and lose that wonderful fluffy texture. Fold gently and patiently until the whipped topping is completely incorporated and the mixture looks uniform and cloud-like.

The color should be a pale yellow from the pineapple and pudding, and the texture should be incredibly light and fluffy. You shouldn’t see any streaks of white whipped topping remaining.

Step 4: Add Optional Mix-ins

If you’re adding any mix-ins to your Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff, now is the time. Gently fold in mini marshmallows, chopped macadamia nuts, mandarin orange segments, or additional coconut.

Be careful not to overmix at this stage. You want to maintain that fluffy texture while evenly distributing the add-ins throughout the mixture. A few gentle folds should be sufficient.

I particularly love adding mini marshmallows because they create little pockets of sweetness throughout the fluff, and their soft texture complements the creamy base beautifully. Macadamia nuts add wonderful crunch and authentic Hawaiian flavor.

Step 5: Chill the Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff

Transfer your fluffy mixture to a serving bowl or a 9×9-inch baking dish. Use your spatula to smooth the top into an even layer, creating a nice canvas for your toppings.

Cover the bowl or dish tightly with plastic wrap, making sure the plastic touches the surface of the fluff to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and set.

The chilling time is essential—it allows the pudding to fully set, the flavors to meld together, and the texture to firm up slightly while remaining wonderfully fluffy. I often make this Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff the night before I need it, letting it chill overnight. The longer it sits, the better the flavors develop.

During chilling, the pineapple juice continues to hydrate the pudding mix, creating an even creamier texture. The whipped topping also firms up slightly, helping the fluff hold its shape when scooped.

Step 6: Add the Toasted Coconut Topping

Just before serving your Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff, it’s time to add the beautiful toasted coconut topping. Remove the dish from the refrigerator and uncover it.

Sprinkle the cooled toasted coconut generously over the entire surface of the fluff. I like to create a thick, even layer that covers the whole top—this ensures every serving gets plenty of that delicious toasted coconut.

The contrast between the crispy, nutty toasted coconut and the smooth, creamy fluff beneath is what makes this dessert truly special. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re tempted to take shortcuts.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

For a beautiful presentation, arrange fresh pineapple chunks on top of the toasted coconut. Add a few maraschino cherries for pops of color and that classic tropical look. Tuck a few fresh mint leaves around the cherries for a touch of green.

You can also create a more elaborate garnish by arranging the pineapple chunks in a decorative pattern, creating sections or a border. For parties, I sometimes create a border of toasted coconut with a pile of fresh pineapple in the center, topped with a cherry and surrounded by mint leaves.

Serve your Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff in individual dessert cups or bowls, making sure each portion gets some of the toasted coconut topping. You can also serve it family-style in the large serving bowl, letting guests scoop their own portions.

This fluff is best served cold, straight from the refrigerator. The cool temperature enhances the refreshing tropical flavors and makes it perfect for warm weather gatherings.

Perfect Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff

This Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving occasions. It works beautifully as a light dessert after grilled meats or seafood, making it perfect for summer barbecues and luau-themed parties.

For brunch gatherings, serve this fluff alongside fresh fruit and pastries. It’s sweet enough to feel like dessert but light enough to enjoy earlier in the day. The tropical flavors pair wonderfully with coffee and mimosas.

This fluff also makes an excellent contribution to potluck dinners. Transport it in a covered dish and add the toasted coconut topping just before serving so it stays crispy. The recipe easily doubles or triples for feeding larger crowds.

For elegant dinner parties, serve individual portions in clear glass dessert cups or martini glasses. Layer the fluff with additional toasted coconut between layers for a parfait effect. Top each glass with a pineapple wedge, toasted coconut, and a cherry for a stunning presentation.

Kids love this Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff too. Serve it in colorful bowls or cups with fun tropical umbrellas or straws for a special treat. The sweet, fruity flavor and fluffy texture appeal to young palates.

Nutritional Information for Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff

Each serving of Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff (based on 8 servings) contains approximately:

Calories: 215
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 1g

The pineapple provides vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion. The coconut contributes healthy fats and adds dietary fiber. While this is definitely a sweet treat, it’s lighter than many traditional desserts and provides some nutritional benefits from the fruit. As with all desserts, enjoy this Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Fluff in moderation as part of a balanced diet.