Description
Chris’s Hawaiian Fluff Salad is a sweet and refreshing tropical dessert salad combining crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, shredded coconut, and a creamy mixture of whipped topping, sour cream, and vanilla yogurt. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (for garnish, optional)
Creamy Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine Fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges ensuring excess liquid is removed to prevent a watery salad.
- Add Mix-ins: Add the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans or walnuts if using. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly without breaking the fruit pieces.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, blend together the whipped topping, sour cream, vanilla yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined, creating a light and tangy creamy mixture.
- Fold Together: Gently fold the creamy topping mixture into the fruit and marshmallow mixture, stirring carefully to maintain the fluffiness and to avoid breaking the fruit chunks.
- Chill Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows the salad to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish: Before serving, garnish with extra mini marshmallows and chopped nuts if desired for added texture and a festive presentation.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled as a delicious, sweet, and fluffy tropical treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- Ensure to drain canned fruits well to avoid excess liquid diluting the salad.
- For a nut-free version, omit chopped pecans or walnuts and garnish only with marshmallows.
- This salad is best consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
- Variations can include adding maraschino cherries or substituting yogurt with Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Stir gently when combining to keep the salad light and fluffy.
