Cranberry Fluff Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Fluff is a festive and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a light, fruity treat. Combining tart cranberries with sweet marshmallows and creamy whipped topping, it’s easy to prepare and sure to delight your guests.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 3 cups miniature marshmallows
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 cups diced unpeeled tart apples
• 1/2 cup halved green grapes
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the cranberries in a food processor, cover, and pulse until they are finely chopped. Transfer the chopped cranberries to a large bowl.
2. Step 2: Add the miniature marshmallows and sugar to the bowl with the cranberries. Stir to combine, then cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
3. Step 3: Just before serving, stir in the diced apples, halved grapes, chopped nuts, and salt until evenly distributed.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mixture until fully incorporated. Serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

• For added crunch, substitute walnuts or pecans for the nuts listed in the recipe.
• Use flavored whipped cream, such as cinnamon or vanilla, to enhance the dessert’s taste.
• If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey before serving.
• Fresh cranberries provide the best texture, but frozen work well when thawed and drained slightly.

Storage

Store the cranberry fluff covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving if it has settled. This dessert is best served chilled and should not be frozen, as the texture of the whipped cream will be compromised upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make cranberry fluff ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the base mixture and refrigerate overnight. Add the fresh fruit and whipped cream just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use if I don’t have a food processor?

You can finely chop the cranberries by hand with a sharp knife, though it may take more time. Alternatively, pulse in a blender carefully to avoid over-processing.

Cranberry Fluff Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 102 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

A classic and refreshing Cranberry Fluff salad that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries and apples with the sweetness of marshmallows and whipped cream, accented by crunchy nuts and juicy grapes. Perfect for holiday gatherings and potlucks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit and Mix-Ins

• 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 cups diced unpeeled tart apples
• 1/2 cup halved green grapes
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Sweeteners and Other

• 3 cups miniature marshmallows
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

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Instructions

1. Chop Cranberries: Place the cranberries in a food processor, cover, and process until finely chopped. This will help release their tart juice and soften their texture.
2. Mix and Refrigerate: Transfer the chopped cranberries into a large bowl. Add the miniature marshmallows and sugar. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften.
3. Combine Final Ingredients: Just before serving, gently stir in the diced apples, halved grapes, chopped nuts, and salt into the chilled cranberry mixture.
4. Fold in Whipped Cream: Carefully fold the whipped heavy cream into the fruit and marshmallow mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy texture.
5. Serve: Transfer the cranberry fluff to a serving dish and enjoy chilled as a sweet, tangy, and creamy side or dessert.

Notes

• For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or substitute with seeds.
• This salad is best made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.
• You can substitute the heavy whipping cream with whipped topping for a lighter option.
• If fresh cranberries are not available, frozen cranberries work perfectly—just make sure to thaw slightly before processing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cranberry fluff, cranberry salad, holiday salad, fruit salad, marshmallow salad, no-cook recipe, festive side dish