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Cranberry Fluff Salad

Cranberry Fluff Salad
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Cranberry Fluff Salad is a festive and vibrant holiday dish that blends sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors with fresh cranberries, fluffy whipped cream, and a hint of citrus. This refreshing salad balances textures and tastes, making it a nostalgic yet exciting side or dessert that appeals to kids and adults alike. Its bright colors and easy preparation make it a perfect make-ahead choice to bring holiday cheer to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple (drained)
  • 1/4 cup orange juice or zest

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cranberries: Wash the fresh cranberries carefully, then combine them with pineapple and orange juice in a large bowl to soften and blend their flavors.
  2. Add marshmallows: Fold in the mini marshmallows gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without deflating the mixture.
  3. Incorporate the whipped cream: Carefully mix in the whipped cream or Cool Whip, stirring until the salad has a uniform, fluffy consistency.
  4. Add nuts and zest: If using, sprinkle chopped nuts and orange zest into the mix for added texture and citrus aroma, then give a final gentle stir.
  5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the Cranberry Fluff Salad for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm cranberries to ensure a plump and crisp texture, avoiding mushiness.
  • Chill all ingredients before mixing to maintain fluffiness throughout preparation.
  • Gently fold ingredients instead of stirring vigorously to keep the salad airy.
  • Prepare the salad a day in advance to enhance flavors and reduce holiday stress.
  • Taste before serving and add honey or sugar if a sweeter salad is desired.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it ruins the creamy texture and causes separation.
  • Best served cold; reheating is not suggested to preserve consistency.
  • For dietary variations, see recipe notes for dairy-free, nut-free, and vegan options.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry fluff salad, holiday salad, festive side dish, cranberry dessert, no bake salad, gluten free salad, holiday recipe

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/cranberry-fluff-salad/