Cranberry Fluff

Why You’ll Love It

Sweet and tart balance: The combination of fresh cranberries and pineapple provides the perfect mix of tangy and sweet.
Creamy and fluffy texture: When cream cheese and whipped topping are folded together, the salad has a light, airy texture that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Easy to make: This simple zero-oven recipe is ideal for busy holidays or gatherings. Just mix, chill, and serve.

Cranberry Fluff Ingredients

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Fresh cranberries: This recipe is best with fresh cranberries but can also be made with thawed cranberries. To thaw frozen cranberries, place them in a bowl of room temperature water for 30 minutes or let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Crushed pineapple: Adds a tropical touch to this recipe for cranberry fluff. Drain it well to avoid excess liquid, which could affect the final consistency.
Powdered sugar: This fine sugar dissolves easily, creating a smooth texture.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese provides a rich, creamy base to the cranberry mixture.
Cool whip: This whipped topping adds lightness and a fluffy texture, making the dish airy and indulgent.
Mini marshmallows: These sweet, chewy bites add a playful texture and sweetness, creating a yummy contrast with the other ingredients.
Chopped pecan: Nuts introduce a crunchy element and a nutty flavor. They can also enhance the overall richness and depth of the dish. Pecans are good but any kind of nuts would work in this cranberry fluff salad.

How to Make Cranberry Fluff Salad

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Prepare the cranberries: Pulse them until broken down into smaller pieces using a food processor.
Mix the base: Transfer the cranberries to a medium-sized bowl. Add the drained crushed pineapple and powdered sugar, then stir until everything is well combined. Set this mixture aside.
Beat the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat it until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to eliminate any lumps, and give it another beat to ensure it’s perfectly blended.
Incorporate the whipped cream: Add the thawed whipped topping to the cream cheese and gently fold them until fully combined.
Combine all ingredients: Pour the sweetened cranberry and pineapple mixture into the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Add the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans, and fold everything together until the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Chill for flavor: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for several hours before garnishing and serving.

Substitutions and Variations

Cream cheese swaps: For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream cheese alternative. Greek yogurt or whipped mascarpone can provide a similar creaminess.
Topping ideas: Cranberries, pecans, mini marshmallows, whipped cream, fresh mint, or rosemary.
Fruity add-ins: Add different fruits to this fluff salad, like mandarin oranges, grapes, or bananas. You can use your choice of nuts and also add unsweetened or sweetened coconut shreds if desired. It’s easy to make variations.
More fruit add-ins: Add diced mango and shredded coconut, or substitute crushed pineapple with other fruits like chopped kiwi or papaya.
Nutty version: Incorporate nuts like walnuts, almonds or hazelnuts for varied textures and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Appetizer: These mini stuffed tomatoes or my festive antipasti board make incredible appetizers.
Main: Serve your cranberry fluff salad with this sheet pan turkey recipe!
Dessert: End with gingerbread cheesecake dip or my dipped strawberry birds (super cute).

How to Store Cranberry Salad

Store: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The longer they sit, the more the liquid from the fruit may start to separate.
Freezer: This mixture can typically be frozen for 2 to 3 months for the best quality.
Thaw: Defrost the dish in the refrigerator overnight. After thawing, stir it to restore its original texture.