9. Serve and Garnish
Slice the firm jelly or spoon into bowls. Garnish with additional pineapple, toasted coconut, or even a drizzle of coconut cream.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, 1/8 of the recipe)
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Calories: ~210 kcal
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Protein: 4 g
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Fat: 8 g (mostly from milk and coconut)
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Carbohydrates: 30 g
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Sugars: 22 g
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Dietary Fiber: 2 g
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Sodium: ~90 mg
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Calcium: ~120 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Desserts mixing coconut, milk, and gelatin have roots in tropical and Southeast Asian cuisines, where coconut commands flavor and texture. The adaptation to canned pineapple with gelatin arose in Latin America and the Caribbean, popularized via home‑style puddings and molded salads. Over time, this nostalgic, no‑bake dessert has found renewed attention online, thanks to its vibrant look, customizable layers, and ease of prep. It fits perfectly with summer gatherings, potlucks, or even eco‑conscious make‑ahead meal plans.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Hands‑off prep: once assembled, leave it in the fridge
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Tropical flavor: pineapple and coconut brilliance in every bite
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Visually appealing: clear molds highlight color and fruit
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Kid‑ and party‑friendly: sweet, creamy, easy to scoop
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Always a crowd‑pleaser: satisfying, but never heavy
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Gluten‑ and egg‑free (unless you alter it)
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Easy to personalize with fruit or flavors
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Economical: few basic pantry ingredients
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Great for meal prep or hosting events
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Perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity