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Cranberry Fluff Salad is a creamy, fruity, and festive dessert salad that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. This classic dish combines tart cranberries, sweet marshmallows, juicy pineapple, and fluffy whipped cream to create a treat that everyone will love.
Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a must-have for your holiday table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and Fun: Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any holiday party.
- Easy to Make: Requires just a few simple ingredients and no baking.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better when made in advance.
- Balanced Flavors: Combines sweet, tart, and creamy textures.
- Kid-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
What to Serve with Cranberry Fluff Salad
- Holiday Dinners: Serve as a sweet side dish or dessert alongside turkey or ham.
- Buffets: A colorful addition to any potluck or party spread.
- Cookies or Bars: Pair with sugar cookies or brownies for a dessert table.
- Brunch: Enjoy it with muffins, quiches, or breakfast casseroles.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Complements warm beverages beautifully.
Cranberry Fluff Salad
A creamy and festive dessert salad made with cranberries, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream, perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (if using whipping cream)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped cranberries and granulated sugar. Mix well and let sit for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cranberries to soften.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. (Skip this step if using Cool Whip).
- Fold the whipped cream (or Cool Whip) into the cranberry mixture.
- Gently stir in the crushed pineapple and mini marshmallows. Add chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the marshmallows to soften.
- Spoon the cranberry fluff into a serving bowl or individual cups. Garnish with additional cranberries or nuts if desired and serve chilled.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Cranberry Prep: Use a food processor to chop the cranberries quickly and evenly.
- Substitutions: Use coconut flakes or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This salad can be made up to a day in advance for convenience.
- Add Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before chopping.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping.
How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?
Ensure the pineapple is well-drained and avoid overmixing the ingredients.
Wrapping it up
Cranberry Fluff Salad is a festive favorite that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its blend of creamy, tart, and sweet flavors, it’s a dish that adds cheer to any holiday table.
Whether you serve it as a side dish or a dessert, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try it this season and watch it disappear!