Love live summer with this tropical pineapple fluff salad! Spend time with friends and family, not on your dessert! This no-bake fluff salad is perfect for any BBQs or get togethers. Let me show you how to make the best summer treat – pineapple fluff salad!

You may not know the name – but this easy no-bake dessert is probably at more than one of your summer gatherings. Fluff salad is always at ours! We love switching up the flavors (which is super easy!) and bringing a big tupperware full of fluff. This fluff salad version? Chef’s kiss! It’s perfect for any summer event – bonus points for serving it in a pineapple half!

What is Pineapple Fluff?

First, there is no lettuce in this salad. It is a dessert salad that is called fluff because of the whipped topping that is added in. It gives off the appearance of being “fluffy” after incorporated. There are many varieties of fluff salad but a classic salad contains whipped topping, a flavored Jell-O mix and various additions such as nuts, mini marshmallows and canned fruit.

There is no right or wrong addition into your fluff salad – just whatever you prefer and everyone in your family loves! Even this pineapple fluff salad can be adjusted to your personal tastes. This version gives off major tropical vibes and is great for any BBQ or family gathering during the summer.

Pineapple Fluff Salad Ingredients

To make this pineapple fluff salad you will need:

• Whipped topping
• Crushed pineapple
• Pineapple Jell-O
• Shredded coconut
• Walnuts
• Mini marshmallows

Whipped topping – This is the base of your fluff salad. I suggest using Cool Whip or a similar brand. It provides the best results. I don’t recommend homemade whipped cream here. You can find the Cool Whip in the frozen food section.

Tip: Put it right in the fridge when you get home so it’s thawed when you need it.

Crushed Pineapple – You just need a can of crushed pineapple from the fruit aisle. The small 8 ounce can will work.

Pineapple Jell-O – While the crushed pineapple adds some of the pineapple flavor, this Jell-O is where the majority comes from. It packs a punch! It can be found in the baking aisle.

Shredded Coconut – This adds a great texture to the fluff salad. You can get sweetened or unsweetened – it’s your choice. We normally get sweetened for our salads.

Walnuts – Another great addition that adds crunch. You can easily swap out the walnuts for your favorite nut.

Mini marshmallows – Grab a bag of these from the baking aisle. You won’t use the whole bag so save the rest of these frozen s’mores pops!

Optional: Whole Pineapple – Serving this fluff in half a pineapple is a fun presentation idea. It is optional but really cool!

How to Make Pineapple Fluff

Gathering your ingredients is the hardest part of this recipe! It’s super easy to make and great if you have little helpers in the kitchen.

Step 1: Add the Cool Whip and Jell-O mix to a large mixing bowl. This helps make sure that the Jell-O is fully combined before adding the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Add the rest of the ingredients to the bowl. Use a silicone spoon to combine everything. It won’t be smooth, but just make sure everything is well incorporated. Cover and place in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Step 3: OPTIONAL. Cut a pineapple in half with a sharp knife. Use the knife to cut out the center of the pineapple. Reserve the contents for another pineapple recipe like this Pineapple Angel Food cake! Scoop out the pineapple fluff salad into the pineapple half right before serving.

Recipe Tips and FAQs

This recipe is simple to make and perfect for beginners in the kitchen. Here are some tips to make it every easier.

Do I have to serve it in a pineapple? No, you don’t have to serve it in a pineapple half – it’s just pretty cool! Any serving bowl will work for your pineapple fluff salad.

Tip: Drain most of the crushed pineapple juice, but save a few tablespoons for the salad. It helps keep it moist even after being in the fridge.

How can I make this dairy-free? If you need this recipe dairy-free swap out the Cool Whip for a dairy-free option. There is a coconut milk version that should work!

Tip: Add your favorite nut here in place of the walnuts. Buy them whole and crush them on your own to save money. Pecans or almonds would make great options.

Other Fluff Salads to Try:

• Cherry Fluff
• Pistachio Fluff
• Cheesecake Fluff
• Ambrosia Salad
• Orange Fluff Salad

How to Store Leftovers

Place any leftovers in the fridge either in a Tupperware or covered with cling wrap or foil. This salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving from the fridge.

Can I freeze pineapple fluff salad?

No, you can not freeze this salad. The ingredients will freeze, but will separate when defrosted.

Other No-Bake Desserts to Try

Looking for more no-bake treats to bring to the next BBQ? Check out:

• Caramel Apple Dip
• Mint Cookie Truffles
• White Chocolate Mousse
• M&M Energy Bites

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review on the recipe card above or the comments below. Want to make it later? Pin the image below to Pinterest!