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Easy Cranberry Fluff Salad Recipe

Easy Cranberry Fluff Salad Recipe

The Easy Cranberry Fluff Salad is a vibrant, sweet, and tangy holiday dish made with fresh cranberries, mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and whipped cream, creating a fluffy and refreshing salad perfect for festive gatherings. This recipe is simple to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and customizable for various dietary preferences, making it an ideal addition to your holiday spread.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans recommended)
  • 12 tablespoons sugar or honey (to taste)
  • Optional fruits: 1/2 cup mandarin oranges or diced apples
  • Optional spices: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of ground ginger

Variations

  • Use coconut whipped cream or another plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version
  • Substitute nuts with pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option
  • Replace whipped cream with Greek yogurt mixed with honey for a healthier, higher-protein version

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cranberries: Rinse fresh cranberries thoroughly and drain well to ensure they are clean and ready to add bright tartness to your salad.
  2. Combine the Fruits: In a large mixing bowl, blend the fresh cranberries, drained crushed pineapple, and any optional fruits such as mandarin oranges or diced apples for a juicy fruit mix.
  3. Add Mini Marshmallows: Gently fold the mini marshmallows into the fruit mixture to add softness and a touch of sweetness.
  4. Mix in the Cream: Lightly fold whipped cream or Cool Whip into the fruit mixture, creating the classic fluffy texture that defines this salad.
  5. Incorporate Nuts (Optional): Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and richness, then gently mix them in.
  6. Sweeten to Taste: If the salad tastes too tart, carefully fold in a small amount of sugar or honey, maintaining the fluffiness.
  7. Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the texture set properly.

Notes

  • Use fresh cranberries for vibrant color and tartness; avoid dried or canned cranberries for this recipe.
  • Drain pineapple well to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
  • Fold ingredients gently to maintain a light, airy texture.
  • Add nuts last to preserve their crunchy texture.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead to enhance flavor and ease holiday meal preparation.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry fluff salad, holiday salad, easy holiday recipe, cranberry salad, fluffy fruit salad, make-ahead salad, gluten free dessert