Looking for a dessert that’s quick, creamy, and a total crowd-pleaser? No-Bake Pistachio Pudding, also known as Pistachio Fluff Dessert, is a retro-inspired treat that blends nutty pistachio pudding, tangy pineapple, and fluffy whipped topping into a dreamy, scoopable delight. This creamy pistachio fluff comes together in minutes, chills to perfection, and vanishes fast at potlucks or family gatherings. Whether you love it with marshmallows or keep it simple with extra nuts, this no-bake green dessert is your ticket to effortless indulgence. Let’s whip up this No-Bake Pistachio Pudding and enjoy its cool, nostalgic charm!
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Pistachio Pudding
- Quick and Easy: This pistachio mousse salad is ready in under 10 minutes (plus chilling).
- No Oven Needed: Perfect for busy days or warm weather.
- Versatile: Customize with or without marshmallows for your ideal creamy pistachio fluff.
- Crowd Favorite: Its vibrant green hue and creamy texture steal the show.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Chills beautifully for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients for No-Bake Pistachio Pudding
Here’s what you’ll need for this no-bake green dessert (serves 8):
For the Dessert:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup (150g) mini marshmallows (optional)
- ½ cup (60g) chopped pistachios (plus 2 tbsp for garnish)
- ½ cup (120g) cottage cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- 4–6 maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Serving bowls or trifle dish
Ingredient Tips
- Pudding Mix: Use instant pistachio pudding mix for this No-Bake Pistachio Pudding; cook-and-serve won’t set properly.
- Pineapple: Keep the juice for tangy sweetness in this creamy pistachio fluff.
- Whipped Topping: Thaw in the fridge for a stable, fluffy pistachio mousse salad.
- Marshmallows: Optional for chewiness; skip for a less sweet no-bake green dessert.
- Cottage Cheese: Adds protein and creaminess; omit for a softer celebration cake.
Directions for No-Bake Pistachio Pudding
Let’s make this No-Bake Pistachio Pudding—a perfect creamy pistachio fluff!
Mix Pudding and Pineapple
In a large bowl, I stir 1 package pistachio pudding mix with 1 can crushed pineapple (with juice) until glossy and no dry spots remain, creating a tangy base for this no-bake green dessert.
Fold in Whipped Topping
I gently fold in 1 tub thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain, keeping the pistachio mousse salad light and airy.
Add Mix-Ins
I stir in ½ cup chopped pistachios and, if using, 1 cup mini marshmallows and ½ cup cottage cheese, mixing gently to maintain the fluffiness of this creamy pistachio fluff.
Chill and Set
I cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the No-Bake Pistachio Pudding firm up beautifully.
Garnish and Serve
I spoon the chilled dessert into bowls or a trifle dish, topping with 2 tbsp chopped pistachios and maraschino cherries (if using) for a vibrant no-bake green dessert.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 8 (½ cup per serving)
- Calories: ~250–300 kcal per serving (with marshmallows and cottage cheese)
- Macros per Serving: 35g carbs, 4g protein, 10g fat, 1g fiber
Variations for No-Bake Pistachio Pudding
Try these twists on this creamy pistachio fluff:
- Nut Swap: Use chopped walnuts instead of pistachios for a unique no-bake green dessert.
- Fruit Boost: Add ¼ cup crushed mango for extra tang, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Mango Coconut Smoothie.
- No Marshmallows: Skip marshmallows and add more pistachios for a nuttier pistachio mousse salad.
- Whipped Cream: Use homemade whipped cream for a fresher No-Bake Pistachio Pudding (best served same day).
- Vegan Twist: Use vegan pudding mix and coconut whipped topping for a vegan creamy pistachio fluff.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Cucumber Avocado Salad for a light contrast.
- Serve with Layla Cooks’ Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken for a bold meal.
- Enjoy with Layla Cooks’ Cake Costco Copy Cat for a festive dessert spread.
Storage
I store leftover pistachio mousse salad covered in the fridge for up to 2 days; stir gently before serving, as marshmallows may soften. I avoid freezing, as it can make this no-bake green dessert grainy. For make-ahead, I mix and chill up to 24 hours before serving, adding garnishes at the last minute.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve this No-Bake Pistachio Pudding in a trifle dish with pistachio and cherry garnishes for a stunning creamy pistachio fluff.
- Garnish: Top with extra pistachios or cherries for this pistachio mousse salad.
- Pairing: Enjoy with coffee or Layla Cooks’ Pomegranate Margarita for a festive vibe.
- Portion Size: ½ cup per person for a satisfying dessert or side.
- Occasions: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or summer gatherings.
FAQs About No-Bake Pistachio Pudding
Here are answers to common questions about this dessert:
Can I skip cottage cheese?
Yes, omit cottage cheese for a softer, sweeter pistachio mousse salad; it’s still creamy.
Why use pineapple juice?
The juice activates the pudding mix and adds tangy sweetness to this creamy pistachio fluff.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, but it’s less stable; use for same-day serving of this no-bake green dessert.
How do I keep it fluffy?
Fold whipped topping gently and avoid overmixing for a light No-Bake Pistachio Pudding.
Can I make it vegan?
Use vegan pudding mix and coconut whipped topping for a vegan pistachio mousse salad.
More Dessert Ideas You’ll Love
- Chocolate Mousse Cake
- Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
- Strawberry Shortcake Cake (with sponge cake)
- Moist Cinnamon Apple Cake: A Sweet, Simple Deligh
Conclusion
No-Bake Pistachio Pudding is a creamy, nostalgic dessert that’s quick to make and impossible to resist. This pistachio mousse salad brings retro charm to any table. Whip up this creamy pistachio fluff, chill, and watch it disappear at your next gathering!
No-Bake Pistachio Pudding
Ingredients
- 1 3.4 oz package instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 1 8 oz tub whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup 150g mini marshmallows (optional)
- ½ cup 60g chopped pistachios (plus 2 tbsp for garnish)
- ½ cup 120g cottage cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- 4 –6 maraschino cherries optional, for garnish
Instructions
Mix Pudding and Pineapple
- In a large bowl, I stir 1 package pistachio pudding mix with 1 can crushed pineapple (with juice) until glossy and no dry spots remain, creating a tangy base for this no-bake green dessert.
Fold in Whipped Topping
- I gently fold in 1 tub thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain, keeping the pistachio mousse salad light and airy.
Add Mix-Ins
- I stir in ½ cup chopped pistachios and, if using, 1 cup mini marshmallows and ½ cup cottage cheese, mixing gently to maintain the fluffiness of this creamy pistachio fluff.
Chill and Set
- I cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the No-Bake Pistachio Pudding firm up beautifully.
Garnish and Serve
- I spoon the chilled dessert into bowls or a trifle dish, topping with 2 tbsp chopped pistachios and maraschino cherries (if using) for a vibrant no-bake green dessert.
Notes
You can omit the marshmallows and cottage cheese based on preference. For a lighter texture, increase the whipped topping slightly or reduce the add-ins. Keep refrigerated and serve within 2 days for best texture.
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