I love making this Old Fashioned Cherry Fluff when I want something creamy, sweet, and wonderfully nostalgic. It’s a no-bake dessert salad filled with cherries, pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans all folded into a fluffy, creamy base. I find it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime I want an easy make-ahead treat that feels like a classic family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how incredibly simple this recipe is to prepare. I don’t need to turn on the oven, and everything comes together in one bowl. The combination of sweet cherry pie filling and tangy pineapple gives it a bright, fruity flavor, while the marshmallows and whipped topping make it light and fluffy.
I also appreciate how this recipe can be made ahead of time. I just let it chill in the refrigerator, and the flavors blend beautifully. The pecans add a slight crunch that balances the creamy texture, making every bite interesting and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 (8 ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
2 3/4 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
Directions
I start by placing the cherry pie filling and drained crushed pineapple into a large mixing bowl. I stir gently so the fruit is evenly distributed without breaking it down too much.
Next, I add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. I mix everything together until it’s fully combined and smooth.
I then fold in the whipped topping carefully, making sure the mixture stays light and creamy.
After that, I gently stir in the mini marshmallows and finely chopped pecans, coating them evenly throughout the mixture.
I cover the bowl and refrigerate the fluff for at least 2 hours. This resting time helps the flavors blend together and allows the dessert to set properly.
Before serving, I give it a light stir and sometimes garnish it with a few extra pecans or cherries on top.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the cherry pie filling for strawberry or blueberry pie filling when I want a slightly different flavor profile. If I want extra texture, I add shredded coconut or chopped walnuts instead of pecans.
For a lighter version, I use light whipped topping and reduced-fat sweetened condensed milk. When I want a little extra indulgence, I mix in a handful of white chocolate chips for added sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I keep it chilled until ready to serve because it holds its texture best when cold.
I do not reheat this dish since it is meant to be served cold. If it sits for a while, I simply stir it gently before serving to refresh the texture.
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FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I often make it a day in advance. I find that the flavor actually improves after several hours in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Cherry Fluff?
I do not recommend freezing it because the texture of the whipped topping and marshmallows can change once thawed.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, I can substitute freshly whipped cream, but I make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so the fluff holds its shape.
Do I have to use pecans?
No, I can leave them out completely or replace them with another nut if I prefer. The recipe still tastes delicious without them.
How long does Cherry Fluff need to chill?
I let it chill for at least 2 hours, but I find it even better when it chills for 4 hours or overnight.
Conclusion
I truly enjoy how simple, creamy, and nostalgic this Old Fashioned Cherry Fluff is. It brings together sweet fruit, fluffy texture, and a satisfying crunch in every spoonful. Whenever I need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires minimal effort, this is one of my favorite recipes to prepare.
📖 Recipe:
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Old Fashioned Cherry Fluff
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Old Fashioned Cherry Fluff is a creamy, no-bake dessert salad made with cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, marshmallows, and pecans. This light and fluffy treat is perfect for holidays, potlucks, and make-ahead gatherings.
Ingredients
1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 (8 ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
2 3/4 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Place the cherry pie filling and drained crushed pineapple into a large mixing bowl and gently stir to combine.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Carefully fold in the whipped topping, keeping the mixture light and fluffy.
- Gently stir in the mini marshmallows and finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the dessert to set.
- Lightly stir before serving and garnish with additional pecans or cherries if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, chill for 4 hours or overnight.
Substitute strawberry or blueberry pie filling for a flavor variation.
Shredded coconut or chopped walnuts can replace pecans.
Use light whipped topping and reduced-fat sweetened condensed milk for a lighter version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture may change once thawed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
