Dessert

Pioneer Woman Frog Eye Salad Recipe

ByJulian Dempsey February 15, 2026February 15, 2026

Introduction

Frog Eye Salad is a refreshing and unique fruit pasta salad that blends sweet pineapple flavors with tender pasta pearls. This creamy and tangy dessert is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

This close-up image shows a dessert in a white bowl with a thin dark blue edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The dish has two main layers: bright orange chunks of fruit mixed with soft, fluffy white whipped cream on top. The whipped cream is piled high with a light texture and small peaks, partially covering the fruit. Shredded white coconut is sprinkled over the entire dish, adding a fine texture. The photo shows a fresh and creamy mixture, with a soft and slightly juicy look from the fruit beneath the cloud-like cream. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups unsweetened pineapple juice
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons salt, divided
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 (16-ounce) package of acini di pepe pasta
3 (11-ounce) cans of mandarin oranges, drained
2 (20-ounce) cans of pineapple tidbits, drained
1 (20-ounce) can of crushed pineapple, drained
1 (8-ounce) container of frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1 cup shredded coconut

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the custard by combining the pineapple juice, sugar, beaten eggs, flour, and ½ teaspoon of salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and let it cool for about 60 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the pasta by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add vegetable oil and 2 teaspoons of salt to the water. Add the acini di pepe pasta and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooled custard mixture, mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, crushed pineapple, and thawed whipped topping. Mix thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set.
Step 5: Just before serving, fold in the miniature marshmallows and shredded coconut. Stir well to distribute evenly throughout the salad.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh fruit if possible for a more vibrant taste, though canned fruit works well for convenience.
Replace the shredded coconut with chopped nuts for added crunch if desired.
Be sure to cook the pasta just until tender to avoid a mushy texture in the salad.

Storage

Store the Frog Eye Salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled. When serving leftovers, give it a gentle stir to recombine ingredients. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping and fruit texture may be compromised.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy dessert in a white bowl with a dark rim, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has two visible layers: the bottom layer consists of bright orange fruit pieces, likely mandarin or orange segments, with a juicy and soft texture. The top layer is a thick and fluffy white cream or whipped topping, generously covering the fruit pieces with small peaks and soft clouds of cream. Some parts of the fruit peek through the cream, creating a contrast between the orange and white colors. The overall look is light and soft, with a fresh and sweet appearance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute the acini di pepe pasta?

Acini di pepe is preferred for its small, round shape, but you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like orzo or small macaroni. Keep the cooking time short to maintain the right texture.

Is Frog Eye Salad served cold or at room temperature?

Frog Eye Salad is best served cold after chilling for several hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to set properly for a refreshing taste.