This light and refreshing dessert is a perfect summer treat. The combination of sweet pineapple, creamy coconut, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful flavor explosion. With its tropical flair and layers of texture, this no-bake dessert is easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering!
Ingredients
- Macadamia Nuts, toasted and chopped – ½ cup
- Coconut Cream Instant Pudding Mix – 2 (3.4 oz) packages
- Crushed Pineapple with Juices – 1 (20 oz) can
- Crushed Pineapple with Juices – 1 (8 oz) can
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – 1 (14 oz) can
- Maraschino Cherries, drained – 1 (16 oz) jar
- Mini Marshmallows – 3 cups
- Frozen Whipped Topping, thawed – 1 (16 oz) container
- Whipped Cream, Cherries, Nuts (for garnish) – Optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base Ingredients
- Drain the crushed pineapple from both cans, reserving ½ cup of the juice for later use. Set the pineapple aside.
- Toast the macadamia nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool, then chop them into small pieces.
Make the Coconut Pudding Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut cream instant pudding mix and the reserved ½ cup pineapple juice until smooth. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Combine the Layers
- Fold the sweetened condensed milk , drained crushed pineapple , mini marshmallows , and maraschino cherries into the pudding mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is light, fluffy, and fully combined.
4. Chill the Dessert
- Transfer the mixture to a large serving bowl or trifle dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours , or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, garnish the top with additional whipped cream , chopped macadamia nuts , and a few maraschino cherries for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Success
- Nut Substitutions: If macadamia nuts aren’t available, substitute with toasted almonds, pecans, or cashews for a similar crunch.
- Make Ahead: This dessert tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it an excellent option for meal prep or potlucks.
- Add Fresh Fruit: For a fresher twist, add diced fresh pineapple or mango to the mixture before chilling.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tropical Pineapple Coconut Delight is a celebration of summer flavors, combining the sweetness of pineapple, the creaminess of coconut pudding, and the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with texture, making it the perfect dessert for warm weather or any occasion. Plus, it’s no-bake, so you can whip it up quickly without heating up your kitchen.
Indulge in this tropical treat—it’s like a vacation in every bite!
