Key Ingredients:
Can you tidbits and crush up pineapples?
Well-Drained: For best texture, set the pineapple to drain well. They can leave the dessert too juicy — as in, watery.
Press Out Extra Liquid: Put in a fine mesh strainer and push down lightly with the back of a spoon to squeeze out as much juice as possible.
Substitution: If you prefer, you can also use fresh pineapple, although you may need to strain the juice more to achieve the texture you want.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
Creates a Creamy Base: As you toss your pudding mix around, it will meld with the pineapple to form a lovely, thick creamy base that’s just right for folding in other ingredients.
Alternative Flavors: For a twist, use instant coconut pudding for more coconut flavor or lemon pudding for a little tropical zing.
Sugar Free Option: To cut sugar, a sugar-free pudding mix will do just fine.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut
Chewy Texture: The sweetened coconut adds flavor and chewy texture that complements the fluff.
Unsweetened Alternative: If you want a less sweet version, you could use plain, unsweetened coconut although the texture will be slightly different.
Toasted Coconut: The coconut can be pre-toasted for added depth of flavor and a bit of crunch.
Mini Marshmallows
Soft, Sweet Bites: Mini marshmallows add a pillowy, sweet bite that matches the fluffy nature of the whipped topping.
Other Things to Add: Sub nuts, mini chocolate chips or small chunks of fruit if you don’t like marshmallows.
Whipped Topping
Light and Fluffy: The whipped topping gives an airy texture that makes the dessert light and fluffy.
Homemade Whipped Cream: If you want your trifle to taste even fresher, use homemade whipped cream (just remember to fold it gently into your mixture to keep it fluffy).
Dairy-Free Alternative: If you’re after a dairy-free cheesecake, a coconut-based whipped topping does the trick.
Maraschino Cherries (optional)
Colorful Garnish: Maraschino cherries contribute a burst of color and a touch of extra sweetness, playing into the dessert’s tropical appearance.
Other options: Fresh berries or a sprinkling of toasted coconut can also provide a lovely garnish.
