Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pistachio Fluff is incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl and five simple ingredients. It’s ready in minutes and tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. The combination of pistachio pudding and pineapple creates a refreshing flavor, while the marshmallows and whipped topping add lightness and sweetness. It’s nostalgic, kid-friendly, and always a hit on the dessert table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Instant pistachio pudding mix
- Crushed pineapple (with juice)
- Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- Mini marshmallows
- Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix and the entire can of crushed pineapple with juice. Stir until well blended.
- Fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts, stirring gently to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set.
- Stir again before serving and garnish with extra nuts or a dollop of whipped topping, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Add shredded coconut for extra texture and tropical flair.
- Mix in maraschino cherries for a pop of color and added sweetness.
- Use colored marshmallows to make it more festive for holidays.
- Swap nuts with almonds or pistachios for a different nutty twist.
- Add a scoop of cottage cheese for a tangy, creamy variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store Pistachio Fluff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving to refresh the texture. This dessert should not be frozen, as freezing will alter the consistency. No reheating is required—always serve chilled.
FAQs
What is Pistachio Fluff made of?
It’s a simple mix of pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, whipped topping, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts.
Can I make Pistachio Fluff ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when made a few hours in advance to allow it to chill and the flavors to meld.
Do I need to prepare the pudding with milk?
No, just mix the dry pudding powder directly with the pineapple and its juice.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so it holds its shape in the salad.
What kind of nuts work best?
Chopped pecans or walnuts are traditional, but pistachios or almonds also work well.
Can I leave out the marshmallows?
Yes, but the texture and sweetness will be slightly different without them.
Is Pistachio Fluff a dessert or a salad?
It’s technically a dessert salad—a sweet dish that’s often served alongside savory meals at potlucks or holiday tables.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Canned crushed pineapple is best for texture and moisture, but you can use finely chopped fresh pineapple if it includes its juice.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I add extra fruit?
Yes, mandarin oranges, grapes, or chopped bananas can be folded in for added variety.
Conclusion
Pistachio Fluff is a classic no-bake dessert that brings together sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors in one effortless recipe. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a dessert, its light and creamy texture makes it a favorite at any gathering. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this nostalgic treat is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Pistachio Fluff
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pistachio Fluff, also known as Watergate Salad, is a creamy, fruity, and nutty no-bake dessert made with pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, whipped topping, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for holidays or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or pistachios)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine pistachio pudding mix with crushed pineapple and juice. Stir until well blended.
- Fold in whipped topping until mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add mini marshmallows and chopped nuts, stirring gently to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra nuts or whipped topping, if desired.
Notes
- Best when chilled for several hours before serving.
- Can add shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, or colored marshmallows for variation.
- Store in fridge up to 3 days; do not freeze.
- Canned pineapple works best for texture and moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
