Description
Cranberry Fluff is a delightful, creamy dessert featuring finely chopped cranberries mixed with cream cheese, whipped heavy cream, pineapple, and mini marshmallows. This chilled treat combines tart and sweet flavors, perfect for festive occasions or as a refreshing snack alongside cookies or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Mixture
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
Cream Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Other
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and remove any that are soft or bruised to ensure freshness and the best texture in your dessert.
- Chop the cranberries: Place the cranberries into a food processor or blender and pulse until they are finely chopped but not pureed, maintaining some texture.
- Mix cranberries with sugar and zest: In a bowl, sprinkle 1/2 cup of sugar and the orange zest over the chopped cranberries. Toss to coat evenly, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Beat cream cheese with sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy for a creamy base.
- Whip cream and vanilla: Gradually add the heavy cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating until stiff peaks form to achieve a light, airy texture.
- Combine all ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chilled cranberry mixture, drained crushed pineapple, and the whipped cream cheese mixture. Gently fold together until well mixed, then carefully fold in the mini marshmallows to maintain fluffiness.
- Chill the dessert: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to set the flavors and texture before serving.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry fluff chilled, accompanied by cookies, pretzels, or fresh fruit for a delightful dipping experience.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for best texture, but frozen can also be used; just thaw and drain well.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for smooth beating.
- Do not over-process cranberries; fine chopping provides the best texture without turning into a puree.
- Marshmallows add a sweet, chewy contrast; feel free to adjust quantity to taste.
- Refrigeration is essential for the flavors to meld and dessert to set properly.
