This cranberry fluff salad is a creamy, sweet, and tangy holiday favorite made with fresh cranberries, pineapple, whipped cream, and mini marshmallows. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert or side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings. Light, fluffy, and easy to prepare, this classic cranberry salad adds a festive touch to any holiday table.

Ingredients

12 ounces fresh cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
2 cups mini marshmallows
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups heavy whipping cream

Instructions

Chop the Cranberries:
Place cranberries in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but not pureed.
Marinate the Fruit:
Transfer the chopped cranberries to a large bowl. Stir in the sugar and undrained pineapple. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let the flavors blend.
Whip the Cream Mixture:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Combine the Mixtures:
Drain any excess liquid from the cranberry mixture. Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cranberries until fully combined. Fold in the mini marshmallows.
Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate for 3–4 hours (or overnight) before serving to allow the salad to thicken and the flavors to develop.

Tips

For best texture, let the cranberry mixture chill overnight before folding in the cream mixture.
Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure smooth blending.
Use a metal or glass mixing bowl for whipping cream—it helps the cream whip faster.
Drain the pineapple lightly if the mixture seems too wet.

Variations and Substitutions

Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Fruit swaps: Replace pineapple with mandarin oranges or add apple chunks for more texture.
Light version: Use light cream cheese and whipped topping instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie option.
Marshmallow alternative: Mini fruit-flavored marshmallows add a fun twist.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better when made the day before since the flavors have time to blend.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if it separates slightly.

Can I freeze cranberry fluff salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of the whipped cream and marshmallows may change once thawed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled as a festive side dish or dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or potluck gatherings. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or other holiday favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry fluff salad combines tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and creamy whipped filling for the perfect balance of flavors. It’s light, fluffy, and refreshingly sweet—ideal for holidays or anytime you want a no-bake dessert that looks and tastes special.