A light, creamy, and sweet cranberry fluff salad that perfectly balances tart cranberries with fluffy marshmallows, juicy pineapple, and crunchy pecans. This easy, make-ahead side dish or dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – Tart cranberries contrast beautifully with the sweetness of marshmallows and pineapple.
- Light and Fluffy Texture – Whipped cream makes this dish airy and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Quick and Easy to Make – Minimal prep time and no baking required.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Chilling enhances the flavors, making it ideal for holiday meal prep.
- Versatile Dish – Works as a side dish or dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups fresh cranberries, finely chopped
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Directions
Prepare the Cranberries:
- In a medium bowl, mix the finely chopped cranberries with granulated sugar.
- Let sit for 30 minutes to soften and release juices.
Combine the Ingredients:
- Stir in the mini marshmallows and drained crushed pineapple.
Make the Whipped Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Fold and Chill:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture until fully combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, sprinkle with chopped pecans for a crunchy finish.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
- Coconut Fluff – Add ½ cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Orange Cranberry Fluff – Stir in 1 teaspoon of orange zest for a bright citrus flavor.
- Nut-Free Option – Skip the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunch.
- Greek Yogurt Version – Replace half the whipped cream with vanilla Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter texture.
- Extra Fruity – Add chopped apples or mandarin oranges for even more fruit flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change when thawed.
- Make-Ahead: This salad is best made at least 4 hours in advance for the flavors to meld.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Thaw them slightly before chopping, and follow the recipe as directed.
Why do I need to let the cranberries sit with sugar?
This process helps soften the cranberries and reduces their tartness by drawing out their natural juices.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes! Replace the whipped cream with 1 ½ cups of Cool Whip for an easy shortcut.
How do I prevent my fluff salad from being too watery?
Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well and chill the salad before serving.
Can I make this the night before?
Absolutely! Overnight chilling enhances the flavor, making it even better the next day.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with roast turkey, ham, or as a light dessert after a hearty holiday meal.
Can I add cream cheese?
Yes! Blend 4 oz of softened cream cheese into the whipped cream for a richer texture.
Is this similar to Watergate Salad?
Yes! Both are fluff salads, but Watergate Salad includes pistachio pudding, while this recipe features cranberries and fresh whipped cream.
How do I make this fluff salad healthier?
Replace whipped cream with Greek yogurt and use honey instead of sugar for a lighter version.
Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Try walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead of pecans.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Fluff Salad is a light, creamy, and festive dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering. With its sweet-tart cranberries, soft marshmallows, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s a delightful treat that’s easy to make ahead and always a crowd-pleaser!
