Cherry Fluff Recipe
Cherry Fluff is the ultimate feel-good dessert salad that’s always the first to vanish at potlucks, family holidays, or any time you crave a sweet, creamy treat that takes minutes to make. This vibrant pink cloud of cherry, pineapple, and marshmallow goodness is impossibly easy, absolutely no-cook, and manages to be both nostalgic and show-stoppingly pretty. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a dessert, Cherry Fluff brings a delightful burst of color, playful texture, and a crowd-pleasing flavor that’s pure happiness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, Cherry Fluff comes together in a snap. Each component adds its own special touch, from the fruity sweetness to the pillowy texture and pops of crunch. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Cherry pie filling: The star of the show, this brings a luscious, juicy cherry flavor and that signature blush color.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds rich, creamy sweetness and binds everything together for a dreamy texture.
- Whipped topping (thawed): This makes the salad impossibly light and fluffy—don’t skip the thawing step for easy mixing!
- Crushed pineapple (drained): Adds bright, tangy flavor and little bursts of refreshing fruit throughout.
- Mini marshmallows: These provide pillowy bites and that classic “fluff” appeal everyone loves.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For a touch of crunch and nutty flavor, totally optional but highly recommended if you love texture.
- Shredded sweetened coconut (optional): Adds a tropical note and a bit of chewiness, taking Cherry Fluff to the next level.
How to Make Cherry Fluff
Step 1: Mix Cherries and Condensed Milk
In a spacious mixing bowl, pour in the cherry pie filling along with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and beautifully pink. This forms the sweet, fruity base that makes Cherry Fluff so irresistible.
Step 2: Add the Pineapple
Drain your crushed pineapple thoroughly—no one wants a watery salad! Add it to the cherry mixture and blend it in well. The pineapple adds a lovely tang and balances the sweetness of the cherries and milk.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, being careful not to over-mix. You want to keep things airy and light, so use a soft touch. This step is what gives Cherry Fluff its signature cloud-like texture.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows, Nuts, and Coconut
Toss in the mini marshmallows, and if you like a little extra crunch and flavor, add the chopped nuts and shredded coconut. Stir everything together gently until evenly combined, making sure every bite will have a bit of everything.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chilling time lets all the flavors mingle and allows the marshmallows to soften ever so slightly. When ready to serve, your Cherry Fluff will be perfectly set and deliciously cool.
How to Serve Cherry Fluff
Garnishes
For a festive touch, top your Cherry Fluff with extra whipped topping, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a few maraschino cherries. A dusting of shredded coconut or even a handful of mini marshmallows on top makes it look as fun as it tastes!
Side Dishes
Cherry Fluff pairs beautifully with classic picnic fare like ham sliders, grilled chicken, or savory casseroles. It’s also a dreamy companion to salty snacks, balancing all those flavors with its creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon Cherry Fluff into individual cups or parfait glasses for an eye-catching dessert table. Layer it with graham cracker crumbs for a “cherry cheesecake fluff,” or use it as a colorful filling for waffle cones at summer parties. The possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cherry Fluff will keep beautifully in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better as they meld together, making it perfect for prepping ahead.
Freezing
While you can freeze Cherry Fluff, the texture will change—marshmallows and whipped topping can become a bit icy or grainy. For best results, enjoy it fresh from the fridge, but if you must freeze, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Cherry Fluff is meant to be served chilled, not heated. If it’s been stored in the fridge, just give it a gentle stir before serving to fluff it back up. No reheating necessary!
FAQs
Can I make Cherry Fluff dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free whipped topping and sweetened condensed coconut milk. Double-check that your marshmallows are vegan if needed. The flavor will still be dreamy and the texture ultra-creamy.
What if I don’t like coconut or nuts?
No problem! Both coconut and nuts are totally optional. Leaving them out gives you a smoother, more classic Cherry Fluff—still just as delicious and crowd-pleasing.
Can I substitute other pie fillings?
Definitely! While cherry is the classic, try strawberry, blueberry, or even peach pie filling for fun flavor twists and a new spin on this vintage favorite.
How far in advance can I make Cherry Fluff?
You can make Cherry Fluff up to a day ahead. In fact, letting it chill overnight helps the flavors blend and the marshmallows soften just right. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for busy hosts!
Is Cherry Fluff gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you choose gluten-free brands for your pie filling and marshmallows, Cherry Fluff is naturally gluten-free. Always check labels if you’re serving guests with dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Cherry Fluff enough—it’s pure joy in a bowl and so easy anyone can make it. Give it a try at your next gathering or as a sweet surprise for your family, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!” You’ll be hooked after the very first creamy, fruity spoonful.
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Cherry Fluff Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Fluff is a classic no-bake American dessert combining the sweetness of cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and marshmallows with creamy whipped topping and optional crunchy nuts and coconut. It’s an easy, make-ahead dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Optional Ingredients
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions
- Combine Cherry and Condensed Milk: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cherry pie filling and sweetened condensed milk until fully blended.
- Add Pineapple: Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, mixing thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the mixture until fully incorporated, maintaining the fluffiness.
- Add Marshmallows and Optional Ingredients: Stir in the mini marshmallows. If desired, add the chopped nuts and shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor, mixing gently.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the texture set. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use light whipped topping and reduced-fat sweetened condensed milk.
- You can omit the nuts and coconut for a smoother dessert texture.
- This dish is ideal for holidays, potlucks, and summertime gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 33 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
