Cranberry Fluff Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry Fluff Salad is a nostalgic, creamy dessert salad that combines tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, and whipped topping for a festive treat. It’s a classic holiday side dish or dessert that’s always a hit at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any potluck gathering.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh cranberries (finely chopped)
granulated sugar
crushed pineapple (drained)
mini marshmallows
whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

directions

In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cranberries and sugar. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the cranberries sweeten.

After chilling, add the drained crushed pineapple and mini marshmallows to the cranberry mixture and stir to combine.

Fold in the whipped topping until everything is evenly coated and fluffy.

If using, gently stir in chopped nuts for extra texture.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the salad to set.

Serve chilled as a sweet side dish or dessert.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 3 hours (including cranberry maceration)
Total time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Use chopped apples or grapes for added crunch.
Swap pecans for walnuts or leave out the nuts for a nut-free version.
Add shredded coconut for extra sweetness and texture.
Make it lighter with homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping.

storage/reheating

Store Cranberry Fluff Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture may become watery when thawed.
Serve straight from the fridge—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Why is it called fluff salad?
The whipped topping and marshmallows make the salad light, airy, and “fluffy.”

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, thaw them slightly before chopping.

Do I have to let it chill overnight?
Chilling helps soften the cranberries and develop the flavor, so overnight is best—but at least 2 hours works.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! It’s perfect for prepping a day in advance.

Is this salad very sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced with the tart cranberries. Adjust the sugar to taste.

Conclusion

Cranberry Fluff Salad is a retro holiday favorite that’s sweet, tangy, and delightfully fluffy. With its pretty pink color and refreshing flavor, it’s the perfect make-ahead dish to add a touch of nostalgia and sweetness to your holiday table.

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