Description
Cranberry Fluff Salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make holiday dessert featuring fresh cranberries, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and a creamy whipped topping made from cream cheese and heavy cream. This chilled salad offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors with a light, fluffy texture that’s ideal for festive gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 12 ounce package fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounce can crushed pineapple, undrained
Add-ins and Topping
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Chop Cranberries: Add the fresh cranberries to a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped but still retain some texture without becoming mushy.
- Marinate: Transfer the chopped cranberries to a large bowl. Stir in the granulated sugar and the undrained crushed pineapple until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Whip Cream: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy cream mixture.
- Combine: Drain some of the excess juice from the cranberry and pineapple mixture to avoid excess liquid. Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cranberry mixture until evenly blended. Then fold in the mini marshmallows to incorporate evenly throughout.
- Chill: Cover the combined salad and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours or overnight. This chilling step allows the salad to set and enhances the flavors before serving.
Notes
- For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar quantity slightly according to taste.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the whipped topping.
- The salad can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for holiday meal prep.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, increase chopping time of cranberries but avoid pulsing into a puree.
- Drain some juice to prevent the salad from becoming too watery, but retain enough for moisture and flavor.
