Description

Easy Cranberry Fluff Salad is a creamy, no-bake holiday side dish that tastes like dessert and comes together in just minutes. Tart fresh cranberries, sweet pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, and a silky cream cheese and whipped topping base create the perfect make-ahead treat for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any potluck. Whether you are hunting for quick breakfast and brunch ideas, easy dinner sides, healthy snack options, or just need simple food ideas and an easy recipe to round out your dinner ideas, this cranberry salad brings big flavor with very little effort.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries, finely chopped

1 cup granulated sugar

1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tub (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed

3 cups mini marshmallows

1/2 cup chopped pecans, optional

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Instructions

1. Rinse and dry the cranberries, discarding any soft or bruised ones, then pulse them in a food processor until finely chopped.

2. Transfer the chopped cranberries to a bowl, sprinkle with the granulated sugar, stir to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so they soften and release their juices.

3. Drain the crushed pineapple very well, pressing out excess liquid with the back of a spoon so the salad does not become watery.

4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla extract together until completely smooth and creamy.

5. Stir the drained pineapple into the cream cheese mixture, then fold in the chilled cranberries along with any juices until evenly combined.

6. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, keeping the mixture light and fluffy, then add the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans and fold just until everything is evenly distributed.

7. Transfer the cranberry fluff salad to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften.

Notes

Make sure the pineapple is very well drained; excess liquid is the most common reason cranberry fluff turns runny instead of staying thick and creamy.

Prep Time: 20
Category: Dessert Salad
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 38
Sodium: 70
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 9
Unsaturated Fat: 4
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 46
Fiber: 2
Protein: 3
Cholesterol: 30