Cranberry Fluff Salad
Cranberry fluff salad is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and refreshing at the same time. It's not just a side dish; it's a burst of flavor that can brighten up any meal. If you’ve never tried cranberry salad before, think of it as a perfect mix of tart cranberries, creamy textures, and a touch of sweetness.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
Refrigerate 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 180 kcal
For the Salad:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries or 1 can of whole cranberry sauce
- 1 cup crushed pineapple drained
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts pecans, walnuts, or almonds work best
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows optional, for extra sweetness
- 1/2 cup sugar or adjust to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping like Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangy twist
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries
If using fresh cranberries, rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
Chop the cranberries coarsely using a sharp knife. You can also pulse them in a food processor for a quicker, more even chop.
Pro Tip: If you’re using frozen cranberries, let them thaw completely before chopping to get the best texture in the salad.
Step 2: Mix the Pineapple and Sugar
Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to remove any excess juice.
In your mixing bowl, combine the pineapple with the sugar. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Pro Tip: Taste the mixture before adding more sugar. Some pineapples are sweeter than others, so adjust according to your taste!
Step 3: Add the Cranberries and Nuts
Stir the chopped cranberries into the pineapple and sugar mixture.
Add in the chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds), and give everything a gentle mix to combine.
Pro Tip: Don’t worry if the cranberries start to break up a little as you mix—it just adds to the flavor!
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine the whipped cream and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Stir gently to mix them into a smooth, creamy dressing.
Taste the mixture and adjust if you like more tang (add more sour cream) or sweetness (add a little extra whipped cream).
Pro Tip: If you’re using whipped topping, fold it in gently to keep its airy texture intact. It’ll make your salad extra fluffy!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the creamy dressing to the cranberry mixture. Gently fold everything together until it’s evenly combined.
Pro Tip: Be patient while stirring — this is where the magic happens! The creamy dressing helps balance the tart cranberries and sweet pineapple.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Transfer the cranberry salad into a serving dish or bowl and cover with a lid or plastic wrap.
Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it even more refreshing.
Pro Tip: This salad actually gets better overnight, so don’t hesitate to make it a day ahead for the best taste!
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~180–220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Sugar: ~20g
- Protein: ~2g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~2g
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Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.
Keyword cranberry salad, fruit salad