Name: Cranberry Fluff Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; 8 oz crushed pineapple, drained; 2 cups mini marshmallows; 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream or 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip); 1/4 cup powdered sugar (if whipping your own cream); 1 tsp vanilla extract (if whipping your own cream)

A nostalgic classic that brings sweet, tart, and creamy together in one irresistible holiday side or dessert. This Cranberry Fluff Salad is made with fresh cranberries, juicy pineapple, pillowy marshmallows, and a light whipped topping—perfectly chilled and ready to steal the show on any festive table. Whether I serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual winter potluck, it’s always a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it checks all the boxes for a stress-free holiday dish: no baking, simple prep, and can be made ahead. The bright tartness of cranberries is beautifully balanced by sweet pineapple and fluffy cream, while the marshmallows soften just enough to give each bite a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s festive, fun, and feels like a dessert disguised as a side dish—which I absolutely enjoy.

Ingredients

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

12 oz fresh cranberries

1 cup granulated sugar

8 oz crushed pineapple, drained

2 cups mini marshmallows

1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream or 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

1/4 cup powdered sugar (if whipping your own cream)

1 tsp vanilla extract (if whipping your own cream)

Directions

I start by rinsing and draining the cranberries, then pulse them in a food processor until finely chopped.

I transfer the chopped cranberries to a bowl, stir in the granulated sugar, and let them chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better).

Once chilled, I fold in the drained pineapple and mini marshmallows.

If I’m using whipped topping, I fold it right in. If I’m making my own whipped cream, I beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form, then fold that in.

I gently stir in the chopped nuts, if using.

Finally, I refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to let it set and let the marshmallows soften before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chilling Time: 2 hours (minimum)

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Calories: Approximately 285 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap pineapple for mandarin oranges for a citrus twist.

For a lighter version, I use light whipped topping and skip the nuts.

If I want to make it nut-free, I simply leave out the pecans or walnuts altogether.

For added texture, I occasionally stir in shredded coconut.

A touch of orange zest gives a refreshing zing if I want something extra bright.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover cranberry fluff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture won’t hold up well. There’s no need to reheat—it’s best served chilled.

Related Recipes:

Cherry Cheesecake Fluff

FAQs

Can I make cranberry fluff salad the day before?

Yes, and I actually prefer making it a day ahead. It gives the flavors time to meld and the marshmallows time to soften perfectly.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely. I let them thaw first and drain any excess liquid before chopping them.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, and I often do. I just whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form before folding it in.

How do I keep it from getting watery?

I make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly and let the cranberry-sugar mixture sit long enough to release excess juices before combining everything.

Is this a dessert or a side dish?

Honestly, it’s both. I often serve it alongside savory dishes as a sweet contrast, but it also works beautifully as a light dessert.

Conclusion

Cranberry Fluff Salad is a vintage holiday staple that never goes out of style. It’s easy, vibrant, and always gets rave reviews. Whether I’m hosting a big family feast or contributing to a potluck, this no-bake classic delivers festive flavor with minimal effort—and that’s something I can always get behind.

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