Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? This Christmas Cherry Fluff is the perfect festive addition to your holiday table.
It is bright, creamy, and wonderfully sweet. You will love how quickly it comes together during the busy winter season. Your family will reach for seconds every single time.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it requires zero oven time. It is perfect for busy winter days when your kitchen is crowded. You can prep it in just fifteen minutes.
The combination of textures is truly satisfying. You get crunchy pecans and soft marshmallows in every bite. It is a budget-friendly dessert that feeds a large group easily.
Simple Method
Making this dessert is as simple as stirring and folding. You do not need any special equipment or fancy skills. Even beginners can make this Christmas Cherry Fluff with total confidence.
What You Need
This recipe uses simple pantry staples and canned goods. It is a great way to save time during the holidays.
- 21 oz cherry pie filling
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 20 oz crushed pineapple, drained
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cherry pie filling and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no white streaks remain.
- Fold in the miniature marshmallows.
- Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften slightly before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this in a large glass bowl to show off the festive pink color. It looks beautiful next to holiday cookies or a warm roast. Add a few extra pecans on top for a pretty finishing touch.
This dish is a great way to end a heavy holiday meal. It is light, cold, and refreshing. Set the table and enjoy this sweet treat with your favorite people.
Keep It Fresh
Keep your leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days. The marshmallows will soften slightly as it sits.
I do not recommend freezing this creamy dessert salad. The texture is best when it is served cold and fresh. It is perfect for making the night before your big dinner.
Recipe Tips
- Drain the pineapple very well to prevent a watery fluff.
- Use a large spatula to fold the whipped topping gently.
- Do not skip the chilling time in the refrigerator.
- Toast the pecans for a deeper, nutty flavor.
- For a larger holiday crowd, you can easily double the batch.
- Add a few fresh cherries on top for extra flair.
- Make sure your whipped topping is completely thawed before starting.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap pecans for walnuts or omit them for a nut-free version.
- Use fruit cocktail instead of pineapple for more variety.
- Try a dairy-free whipped topping to suit dietary needs.
- Add shredded coconut for a tropical holiday twist.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead dish. Making it the night before helps the flavors develop beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you are ready.
How do I know when it is done?
It is ready once it has chilled for at least two hours. The mixture should look thick, creamy, and set. The marshmallows will feel soft and tender.
I hope this sweet treat brings joy to your holiday table. It is a family favorite that never lasts long. Happy cooking and Merry Christmas!
— Lidia
Christmas Cherry Fluff
Ingredients
- 21 oz cherry pie filling
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 20 oz crushed pineapple, drained
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cherry pie filling and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no white streaks remain.
- Fold in the miniature marshmallows.
- Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften slightly before serving.
