The pudding mix goes on dry. Sprinkled straight over the chopped peaches, it draws in the fruit juices and thickens them instead of leaving the salad loose.
Whipped topping, mini marshmallows and half a cup of coconut are folded in after that, and two hours in the fridge sets everything to a light, spoonable fluff.
What Goes In, and When
Order matters more than technique here.
First
Drained, patted-dry peach pieces
Second
Dry vanilla pudding mix
Stirred until the fruit is coated.
Third
Whipped topping, marshmallows, 1/2 cup coconut
Folded in gently.
After 2 hours chilled
Coconut, fresh peach and mint
Added at serving.
How to Make It
Peaches dried
Pat the drained peach pieces dry so excess liquid does not thin the fluff.
Pudding mix on
Sprinkle the dry pudding mix over the peaches and stir until the fruit is evenly coated.
Folded
Fold in the whipped topping, marshmallows and 1/2 cup coconut until light and evenly combined.
Chilled
Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.
Served
Serve cold, topped with additional coconut, fresh peach pieces and mint.
Ingredient Notes
- Canned peaches
- Two 15 oz cans in juice, drained very well and chopped.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- One 3.4 oz package, used dry.
- Shredded coconut
- Half a cup folded in and two tablespoons for the top.
Why This Recipe Works
- Dry pudding mix thickens the fruit juices rather than adding liquid.
- Patting the peaches dry first keeps the fluff from going watery.
- Folding rather than stirring keeps the whipped topping airy.
- Two hours chilled lets the marshmallows soften into the mixture.
Success Tips
- Drain the peaches in a sieve and then pat them on paper towels.
- Fold with a spatula in wide strokes to keep the mixture light.
- Add the topping coconut and fresh peach just before serving so they stay distinct.
Serving Ideas
Spoon into a serving bowl or individual cups, cold, with coconut and a mint sprig on top.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate
Keep covered in the refrigerator and return it there straight after serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this baked?
No. It is folded together and chilled for at least two hours.
Is the pudding made up first?
No. The mix goes on dry, over the drained peaches.
