Cranberry Fluff

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Creamy, sweet, and just a touch tart, cranberry fluff is the kind of dish that belongs at every holiday table and every summer potluck. This dreamy dessert salad combines whipped cream, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and juicy cranberries to create a luscious, no-bake treat that feels nostalgic yet exciting. Whether you’re making it ahead for a festive gathering or just want something light and cheerful, this fluff has you covered.

It’s a recipe that brings generations together. If you grew up with this at Thanksgiving or saw it pop up at potlucks, you’ll know the comfort it brings. But even if you’re new to it, the balance of textures and sweet-tart flavor will win you over instantly. It looks beautiful on any table and only takes minutes to toss together.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Fluff

Cranberry fluff is equal parts creamy and fruity, with just enough tang from the cranberries to keep it interesting. It’s light but still rich, and every bite has something different: a burst of cranberry, a chewy marshmallow, or a juicy pineapple piece. Best of all, it requires no baking or stove time. Just stir, chill, and enjoy. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.

What Kind of Cranberries Should I Use?

This recipe calls for whole cranberries, either fresh or frozen, but not dried. Fresh cranberries give the salad that signature tartness and color. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before pulsing. You want them chopped but not pureed—tiny pieces add the perfect texture.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Fluff

To get the best flavor and fluffiest texture, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what brings it all together:

Cranberries – These are the heart of the dish, offering that tart punch to balance the sweetness.

Sugar – Helps mellow the cranberries and brings out their natural juices.

Crushed Pineapple – Adds juicy brightness and blends beautifully with the tart cranberries.

Mini Marshmallows – They soak up flavor and add a sweet, chewy texture.

Whipped Topping – The creamy base that ties everything together. You can use homemade whipped cream or store-bought Cool Whip.

Chopped Pecans (optional) – For a little crunch and a toasty nutty note.

How To Make the Cranberry Fluff

Step 1: Prep the Cranberries

Pulse the cranberries in a food processor until finely chopped but not mushy. Place them in a bowl with sugar, stir well, and let them sit for an hour to macerate. This helps mellow their tartness.

Step 2: Mix in the Pineapple

Drain the crushed pineapple well and fold it into the sweetened cranberries. You want to avoid excess liquid so the fluff doesn’t become watery.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows and Pecans

Stir in mini marshmallows and chopped pecans if using. The marshmallows will absorb some of the juices and become soft and flavorful.

Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold in the whipped topping until everything is evenly mixed and light. Don’t overmix or it will deflate.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to blend and the texture to firm up just right.

Serving and Storing Cranberry Fluff

Cranberry fluff is best served chilled and scooped generously into bowls or alongside your holiday plate. It feeds 8 to 10 people comfortably, making it a great addition to potlucks, Thanksgiving, or even summer barbecues. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The marshmallows may soften more over time, but it still tastes fantastic.

What to Serve With Cranberry Fluff?

Roasted Turkey

It pairs beautifully with the savory richness of turkey, especially during the holidays.

Baked Ham

The sweet and salty contrast is a winner on any buffet table.

Green Bean Casserole

Add some savory crunch alongside your creamy dessert salad.

Dinner Rolls

Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for scooping up any leftover fluff.

Pecan Pie

Double down on the festive flavor with a nutty dessert pairing.

Glazed Carrots

The sweet glaze on carrots complements the fruitiness of the fluff.

Deviled Eggs

Add some protein to balance all the sweet and creamy elements on your plate.

Mashed Potatoes

Surprising? Maybe. But this combo works when you’re going for full comfort food mode.

Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If you love this cranberry fluff, you’ll probably enjoy these cozy and festive recipes too:

• Butter Pecan Cheesecake for a rich and nutty finish to your meal.
• Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling to satisfy your fall cravings.
• Delightful Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake for a fruity, nostalgic dessert.
• White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles if you love citrus and cream combos.
• Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake for a bold and beautiful centerpiece.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add pecans or leave them out? Try homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other whip up the fluffiest desserts!

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