Cranberry Fluff Dessert is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy—an easy no-bake recipe that instantly brightens any holiday table. Made with fresh or canned cranberries, fluffy marshmallows, and whipped topping, this classic treat delivers festive flavor with almost zero effort. It’s a family-favorite side dish for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it’s delicious enough to enjoy year-round whenever you’re craving something light, fruity, and nostalgic. In this article, you’ll learn what makes Cranberry Fluff so irresistible, the best ingredients to use, and simple tips for getting the perfect texture every time.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 250
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Cranberry Fluff Dessert
Cranberry Fluff Dessert is a delightful combination of tart and sweet that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. This light and fluffy dessert serves as a refreshing end to any meal or a cheerful addition to your festive gatherings. With its vibrant red color and creamy texture, this dessert not only tastes great, but also looks stunning on any table. It’s quick to prepare and provides an easy way to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Cranberry Fluff Dessert
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Cranberry Fluff Dessert, perfect for holiday celebrations or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or canned cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
If using fresh cranberries, chop them coarsely. Combine the chopped cranberries and sugar in a bowl, and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the cranberries to release their juices and soften, creating a sweet-tart base for your dessert.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a separate bowl, mix together the miniature marshmallows, whipped cream, nuts (if using), and sour cream. This mixture will add creaminess and sweetness, balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
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Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Fold the cranberry mixture into the whipped cream mixture until everything is well combined. Be gentle to maintain the light and fluffy texture!
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Step 4: Finishing
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. This chilling time is essential for achieving that perfect, refreshing bite.
How to Serve Cranberry Fluff Dessert
Serve your Cranberry Fluff Dessert chilled, either in individual cups or a large serving bowl. Garnishing with extra chopped nuts on top can add a delightful crunch. This dessert pairs wonderfully with holiday meals or as a light treat on a warm day.
How to Store Cranberry Fluff Dessert
You can store leftovers of Cranberry Fluff Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy it within the first couple of days.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Fluff Dessert
- If you’re short on time, canned cranberries work well and can be used directly without chopping.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for an extra citrusy twist.
- Make sure your whipped cream is fresh, as it adds the necessary fluffiness to the dessert.
Delicious Variations
- Tropical Cranberry Fluff: Add diced pineapple and shredded coconut for a tropical twist!
- Chocolate Cranberry Fluff: Fold in mini chocolate chips along with the nuts for a rich chocolate flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries; just make sure to thaw them completely and chop them before mixing. - How can I make this dessert vegan?
Try substituting whipped cream with coconut cream and replace sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt. - How long can this dessert be kept at room temperature?
It’s best to keep this dessert refrigerated, but it can be left out for up to 2 hours at room temperature when serving. - What can I use instead of miniature marshmallows?
If you prefer a less sweet option, you can omit marshmallows or use mini meringues for a similar texture. - Can this dessert be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
Cranberry Fluff Dessert is a versatile and easy recipe that invites joy to any gathering. With its bright flavor profile, delightful texture, and simple preparation, it’s a must-try, especially around the holidays! Enjoy the combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy textures that makes this dish so appealing. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll create a dessert that leaves a lasting impression on your guests. So gather your ingredients and dive into making your own Cranberry Fluff Dessert—you won’t regret it!
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Cranberry Fluff Dessert
- Total Time: 150 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and fluffy dessert combining tart cranberries with creamy sweetness, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or canned cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- If using fresh cranberries, chop them coarsely and combine with sugar in a bowl. Let sit for about 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the miniature marshmallows, whipped cream, nuts (if using), and sour cream.
- Fold the cranberry mixture into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Add orange juice or zest for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
