Cranberry Fluff is a joyful jumble of tangy cranberries, sweet pineapple, pillowy marshmallows, and creamy whipped topping that comes together in a dreamy, no-fuss treat. This beloved classic delivers a pop of color and flavor to any table, whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy family dinner. It straddles the line between side and dessert, delighting kids and grownups alike with each spoonful. If you love a refreshing, cloud-like dish that’s as stunning as it is delicious, prepare to fall head over heels for Cranberry Fluff.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cranberry Mixture:
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 2 cups whipped topping, thawed

How to Make Cranberry Fluff

Step 1: Chop the Cranberries

First, grab a food processor and pulse the cranberries until they’re finely chopped—think of the consistency you’d want for a relish. You don’t want big chunks, but avoid pureeing them into mush. This step gives Cranberry Fluff its signature tang and texture.

Step 2: Sweeten and Chill

Transfer the chopped cranberries to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the sugar and stir to combine thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This not only softens the berries, but also allows the sugar to meld with their tart juices, taming any sharpness.

Step 3: Stir In the Mix-Ins

After the cranberries have chilled, fold in the drained crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans (if using). Every ingredient brings a new pop of flavor and texture to the party, transforming the cranberries into something truly special.

Step 4: Fold in Whipped Topping

Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the fruit and marshmallow mixture. Be gentle for the fluffiest result—overmixing deflates all that delectable cloud-like texture. You want everything just incorporated, with pale pink swirls peeking through.

Step 5: Chill Again

Cover the bowl and return it to the refrigerator for at least 2 more hours (or overnight). This time allows the marshmallows to soak up the juicy sweetness and soften into the fluff, and all the flavors to blend. Trust me, Cranberry Fluff only gets better with a little patience!

How to Serve Cranberry Fluff

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect presentation, try topping your Cranberry Fluff with a handful of whole cranberries, a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans, or even a sprig of fresh mint. If you’re feeling festive, an extra cloud of whipped topping or a scattering of orange zest adds elegance and contrast.

Side Dishes

This versatile dish plays well with both sweet and savory partners. It’s especially welcome alongside holiday favorites like roast turkey, baked ham, or stuffing, but also pairs wonderfully with savory vegetable casseroles. As a dessert, serve it after dinner with shortbread cookies or a simple pound cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Cranberry Fluff in individual parfait glasses or mini mason jars for a party-ready treat. You can also scoop it onto lettuce leaves for a retro salad vibe, or pipe it into hollowed oranges for a pop of citrusy glamour. However you share it, the presentation will be as buoyant as the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cranberry Fluff holds up beautifully in the refrigerator. Store any leftovers covered tightly—you can use plastic wrap or an airtight container—and enjoy within 3 days for best texture. The marshmallows will continue to soften, making each spoonful even more luscious.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Cranberry Fluff, it’s not ideal. Freezing affects the texture of both whipped topping and marshmallows, making them less fluffy and more watery when thawed. For the best taste and consistency, stick to refrigerating.

Reheating

No reheating required! This dish is always served cold. If it’s been stored for a day or two, give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the airy texture and redistribute those juicy bits.

FAQs

Can I make Cranberry Fluff in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, Cranberry Fluff tastes even better when made at least a few hours ahead or the day before serving. The chilling time lets everything meld and the marshmallows soften perfectly.

What can I use instead of whipped topping?

If you prefer a homemade touch, you can use freshly whipped heavy cream sweetened with a little powdered sugar. Just keep in mind that real cream may weep over time, so serve it soon after mixing.

Can I use dried cranberries?

Fresh or frozen cranberries are best for authentic flavor and texture, but in a pinch, you can use dried cranberries soaked in hot water for 10 minutes, then drained and chopped. The result will be sweeter and less tart, but still delicious.

Is it possible to make this nut-free?

Of course! Simply leave out the pecans for a nut-free version. The Cranberry Fluff will still be wonderfully fluffy and flavorful without any nuts.

Can I reduce the sugar or make it less sweet?

Definitely. If you like a tarter, less-sweet fluff, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup and add a generous squeeze of fresh orange juice to the cranberries before chilling. This brightens up the flavor and brings a lovely citrus note.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s gracing your holiday table or brightening an ordinary weeknight, Cranberry Fluff is pure, irresistible comfort in a bowl. Its cheerful color, creamy texture, and balance of sweet and tangy make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Gather your friends and family, whip up a batch, and savor this joyful treat—because Cranberry Fluff deserves a spot in everyone’s recipe box!

Cranberry Fluff Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful and easy-to-make Cranberry Fluff recipe that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped topping. Perfect as a side dish or dessert for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Mixture:

1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar

Additional Ingredients:

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
2 cups whipped topping, thawed

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Instructions

Prepare Cranberry Mixture: Pulse cranberries in a food processor until finely chopped. Transfer to a bowl and mix in sugar. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in drained pineapple, mini marshmallows, and pecans. Fold in whipped topping gently.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to soften marshmallows before serving.

Notes

For a tangier flavor, reduce sugar slightly and add a squeeze of fresh orange juice.
This dish is versatile and can be served as a holiday side or dessert.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American