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A bowl of cranberry fluff salad

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
Cook Time 0 minutes
Refrigerate 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chopping Knife
  • Strainer
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Serving dish

Ingredients
  

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

Instructions
 

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!

Notes

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