Cranberry Fluff Christmas Salad
User Reviews
4.7
Cranberry Fluff Christmas Salad
Description
This Cranberry Fluff Christmas Salad starts with fresh cranberries finely chopped to a desired consistency, combined with sugar and drained crushed pineapple to infuse sweetness and juicy fruit flavor. The mixture sits refrigerated to meld the flavors before adding mini marshmallows, which contribute soft, chewy bursts throughout.
A separately whipped mixture of softened cream cheese beaten smooth and heavy whipping cream whipped to stiff peaks is gently folded into the fruit base. This produces a light, airy texture that contrasts with the fruit pieces and marshmallows. The salad needs to chill for several hours, preferably overnight, allowing it to thicken as the cream sets and the flavors intermingle.
Initially, the mixture may appear liquidy, but proper chilling and using stiffly whipped cream ensure a stable, fluffy consistency when served. The salad serves well as a festive side or dessert during the holiday season and benefits from the freshness of cranberries and the richness of the cream mixture.
Ingredients
- 12-ounce ounce package cranberries fresh
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 (8-ounce) (8-ounce) can pineapple crushed, drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- In a food processor (you can use a blender or by hand, also), pulse until the cranberries are coarsely chopped. I don't like really large pieces so I chop them until they are somewhat finely chopped without turning to complete mush.
- Add the sugar and pineapple, pulse once or twice, and pour into a container - cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors blend.
- Stir in the marshmallows.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Pour in the cream and whip until stiff peaks form. Fold the creamy mixture into the salad.
- Cover and refrigerate for four hours or up to overnight. It tastes best, in my opinion, if it has at least 8 hours to hang out before serving.
Notes
- Chilling is essential; the salad sets properly and flavors blend best after refrigeration for 8 hours or overnight.
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly before adding to prevent excess liquid and ensure a firmer texture.
- Ensure heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks before folding in to maintain the salad's light and stable consistency.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 10servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 Serving | |
| Calories | 341kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 38g | 13% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
| Cholesterol | 78mg | 26% |
| Sodium | 64mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 31g | 62% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.