This cheerful dessert‑salad blends juicy mandarin oranges and sweet crushed pineapple with fluffy whipped topping, pudding mix, mini‑marshmallows (or cottage cheese, if you prefer), and optional nuts or coconut. The outcome is a bright, creamy, spoon‑friendly side dish that works just as well at holiday potlucks or summer barbecues.

Why you’ll love it

The citrus fruit gives a burst of flavour and colour.
It comes together in minutes and chills to perfect texture.
It offers a nostalgic, comfort‑food feel with marshmallows and sweet cream.
Easily scaled up for large gatherings or made in advance.

Ingredients (about 8 servings)

1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained well. The Seasoned Mom+2The First Year+2
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained well. deepsouthdish.com+1
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (optional – some versions omit). The First Year+1
8 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed (or equivalent whipped cream). All Things Mamma+1
1 cup mini‑marshmallows (or ½‑1 cup chopped nuts for crunch). The Seasoned Mom+1
Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or shredded coconut for garnish. The Seasoned Mom

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple.
If using pudding mix, whisk it with any reserved juice from the canned fruit until smooth and slightly thickened. (Some recipes skip the pudding and rely purely on whipped topping.)
Gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly combined.
Fold in the mini‑marshmallows (and chopped nuts or coconut, if using).
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (better if overnight) so the marshmallows swell and the flavours meld. All Things Mamma+1
Serve chilled. Garnish with a slice of mandarin or a sprinkle of coconut/nuts for presentation.

Serving & timing

- Serves: ~8
- Prep time: 10–15 minutes
- Chill time: 1–2 hours (or overnight)

Variations & tips

Lighten it by using sugar‑free pudding mix and light whipped topping. The Seasoned Mom
Swap marshmallows for chopped pecans, almonds or walnuts for extra texture.
Skip the pudding mix and just use whipped topping + fruit for a simpler version.
For an ultra‑retro vibe, add shredded coconut and maraschino cherries.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may suffer. All Things Mamma

Conclusion

This Creamy Mandarin Orange and Pineapple Fluff Salad brings together sweetness, creaminess and fruit in a lighthearted dish that’s perfect for celebrations, potlucks or as a fun dessert side. It’s simple to make, visually appealing and always hits a nostalgic note.

Creamy Mandarin Orange and Pineapple Fluff Salad

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Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A light and creamy dessert salad made with mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and whipped topping. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a quick sweet treat.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup sour cream
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
2 cups mini marshmallows

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and sour cream until smooth.
Stir in the drained mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple.
Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
Add the mini marshmallows and gently mix.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Notes

For extra texture, consider adding shredded coconut or chopped nuts.
This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 220
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg