Print

Creamy Cranberry Fluff Salad

creamy cranberry fluff salad - featured image

A festive, creamy cranberry fluff salad combining tangy fresh cranberries with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and pineapple for a sweet and refreshing holiday side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice
  • 1 cup (50 g) mini marshmallows
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whipped cream (freshly whipped heavy cream recommended)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Rinse 12 oz (340 g) of fresh cranberries and discard any soft ones. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. While the cranberry mixture cools, whip 2 cups (480 ml) of heavy cream with 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of vanilla extract until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Be careful not to overwhip.
  3. In a large bowl, gently fold together the cooled cranberry mixture, whipped cream, 1 cup (50 g) mini marshmallows, 1 cup (240 ml) well-drained crushed pineapple, and 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped nuts if using. Stir just enough to mix without deflating the whipped cream.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up.
  5. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and serve chilled in a clear glass bowl or individual cups.

Notes

Use fresh cranberries for best texture and flavor. Chill mixing bowl before whipping cream for better results. Fold ingredients gently to keep whipped cream airy. For dairy-free version, substitute coconut whipped cream and vegan marshmallows. Salad can be made ahead and tastes better after chilling. Do not freeze as whipped cream separates.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry fluff salad, holiday salad, creamy cranberry salad, festive side dish, Christmas salad, Thanksgiving side, whipped cream salad