Cranberry Fluff Recipe
Introduction
Cranberry Fluff is a delightful, refreshing dessert that combines tart cranberries with creamy sweetness and a touch of citrus. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a light, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple (drained)
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse cranberries and remove any that are soft or bruised.
- Step 2: Place the cranberries in a food processor or blender and pulse until they are finely chopped but not pureed.
- Step 3: Transfer the chopped cranberries to a bowl, sprinkle with 1/2 cup sugar and orange zest, then toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 5: Gradually add heavy cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the cranberry mixture, drained crushed pineapple, and cream cheese mixture. Fold together gently, then fold in mini marshmallows until well incorporated.
- Step 7: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a citrus twist, add a splash of fresh orange juice to the cranberry mixture.
- Substitute mini marshmallows with chopped nuts for a crunchier texture.
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries depending on the season, just adjust thawing time if frozen.
Storage
Store the Cranberry Fluff covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled. When ready to serve again, give it a gentle stir to restore the fluffy texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Cranberry Fluff ahead of time?
Yes, making it a few hours or even the day before helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a lighter version, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.
Print
Cranberry Fluff Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This delightful Cranberry Fluff recipe combines tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and fluffy cream cheese whipped with heavy cream, resulting in a light, refreshing dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a fruity, creamy treat.
Ingredients
Cranberry Mixture
- 12 ounces cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and remove any that are soft or bruised to ensure freshness and texture.
- Chop Cranberries: Place the cranberries into a food processor or blender and pulse until they are finely chopped but not pureed, preserving a slight texture.
- Mix and Chill Cranberries: Transfer the chopped cranberries to a bowl, sprinkle with 1/2 cup sugar and the orange zest, then toss to evenly coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/2 cup sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Whip Cream: Gradually add heavy cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating continuously until stiff peaks form, lending a light and airy texture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, fold together the cranberry mixture, drained crushed pineapple, and cream cheese mixture gently to combine.
- Add Marshmallows: Carefully fold in the mini marshmallows, ensuring they remain whole and distributed evenly throughout the fluff.
- Chill and Set: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the dessert to set and flavors to develop.
Notes
- For extra zest, you can finely grate additional orange zest on top before serving.
- This recipe can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated to enhance the flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- This dessert is best served chilled to maintain fluffiness and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cranberry fluff, holiday dessert, cranberry salad, creamy cranberry dessert, fruity fluff
