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Vibrant strawberry fluff salad in a clear glass bowl, garnished with whipped cream, marshmallows, and fresh strawberries on a wooden board.

Easy & Festive Cranberry Fluff Salad

A light, creamy, and vibrant holiday salad made with tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, and whipped cream. This cranberry fluff is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebration.
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 375

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounce package fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 ounce can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls For combining ingredients
  • Food processor or sharp knife To chop cranberries
  • Electric mixer For whipping cream and cream cheese
  • Rubber spatula For folding mixtures together
  • Serving Bowl To present the salad

Method
 

  1. Add fresh cranberries to a food processor. Pulse a few times until finely chopped — avoid over-processing into a paste. Alternatively, chop by hand.
  2. Transfer chopped cranberries to a large bowl. Stir in granulated sugar and undrained crushed pineapple. Mix well and let sit.
  3. Cover and refrigerate the cranberry mixture for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and lump-free.
  5. Add heavy whipping cream to the bowl with the cream cheese and whip until stiff peaks form. Don’t overwhip.
  6. Gently drain excess liquid from the cranberry-pineapple mixture. Fold in the whipped cream mixture with a spatula until just combined.
  7. Fold in mini marshmallows gently until evenly distributed.
  8. Transfer to a serving bowl. Cover and chill for 3–4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

Be sure to let it chill thoroughly — overnight is best. Drain excess liquid before folding in the whipped cream to avoid a runny texture. This recipe is perfect to make ahead for stress-free entertaining.