Cherry Fluff Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s downright joyful and a showstopper at any gathering, you can’t go wrong with Cherry Fluff. This brilliantly pink, creamy treat marries the tartness of cherries, the luscious sweetness of pineapple and condensed milk, and the pillowy softness of whipped topping and mini marshmallows. It’s equal parts nostalgic and modern, turning a handful of simple pantry staples into a dreamy, festive bowl of deliciousness that feels right at home at holidays, potlucks, or lazy summer days with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Ingredients:
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
How to Make Cherry Fluff
Step 1: Combine Cherry Pie Filling and Sweetened Condensed Milk
Start with a large mixing bowl, because things get fluffy fast! Empty the can of cherry pie filling and pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Stir them together gently but thoroughly, until the mixture turns a gorgeous, glossy pink and every cherry looks deliciously coated. This is where the magic starts!
Step 2: Add Crushed Pineapple, Mini Marshmallows, and Nuts
Once your cherry and milk mixture is ready, add the well-drained crushed pineapple, the mini marshmallows, and, if you like, the chopped walnuts or pecans. Fold them in gently to keep everything light and fluffy. The marshmallows add chewiness and soak up flavor, while the pineapple wakes up the whole mixture with its tangy juiciness.
Step 3: Fold in the Cool Whip
This is the moment when Cherry Fluff truly earns its name! Scoop in the thawed Cool Whip and fold it gently into the cherry mixture. You want to keep those lovely air bubbles intact for maximum fluffiness. Once the fluff is one consistent shade of pink with all the ingredients evenly distributed, you’re ready for chill time.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and cover it well. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours; this lets all those flavors meld and gives the marshmallows time to soak up sweetness and soften slightly. Don’t skip this part – it makes the difference between good Cherry Fluff and absolute perfection!
How to Serve Cherry Fluff
Garnishes
For a simple but stunning presentation, sprinkle a few extra mini marshmallows on top or scatter some chopped nuts for crunch – or both! You can also top with a couple of whole maraschino cherries, a drizzle of reserved cherry pie filling, or even a small handful of toasted coconut if you’re feeling fancy. These touches add plenty of visual appeal and a little extra flavor pop.
Side Dishes
Cherry Fluff sits beautifully as a sweet finale, but it can also play sidekick to savory mains at holiday dinners or barbecues. Pair it with roasted turkey or ham, serve it alongside a classic potluck spread, or enjoy it with a platter of sliced fresh fruit to balance out the indulgence. It’s a versatile crowd-pleaser!
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be shy about thinking outside the bowl! Scoop Cherry Fluff into individual parfait glasses for a cute single-serve dessert, fill mini tart shells or pastry cups for an extra bit of crunch, or spoon it between layers of angel food cake for a fluffy trifle. You can even use it as a decadent topping for pancakes or waffles at brunch gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cherry Fluff keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. This prevents it from picking up any fridge odors and keeps everything fluffy and fresh. Give it a gentle stir before serving leftovers to revive that gorgeous texture.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Cherry Fluff, since the whipped topping and marshmallows can take on an odd, watery consistency once thawed. If you need to make it ahead, stick to refrigeration and make it the night before. That way, you’ll always get the creamy, airy results you want.
Reheating
This dessert is always served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply scoop and enjoy straight from the refrigerator. If you notice any excess separation, a gentle stir will bring your Cherry Fluff back to its perky, pink state.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade whipped cream, just whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it in. Just note the texture may be a bit softer and won’t hold as long as Cool Whip does in the fridge.
Is Cherry Fluff gluten free?
Cherry Fluff, as written, is gluten free since all the main ingredients are naturally gluten free. Just check the labels for your marshmallows, condensed milk, and pie filling to ensure they’re certified if serving anyone with dietary restrictions.
What can I substitute for the nuts?
If you’d like to skip the nuts, shredded sweetened coconut or additional mini marshmallows make excellent swaps. Or, you can omit them altogether—the Cherry Fluff will still be deliciously creamy and satisfying.
Can I use a different fruit pie filling?
Certainly! Blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry pie filling can bring their own twist to the classic Cherry Fluff recipe. Just know that the cherry version is a classic for a reason: that color and flavor can’t be beat!
How do I make a lighter version?
To lighten things up, use light Cool Whip and fat-free sweetened condensed milk. You’ll save on calories and fat, and the Cherry Fluff will still taste fantastic and satisfy those sweet cravings.
Final Thoughts
If you want to wow your guests (or just treat yourself to something special), give Cherry Fluff a try! It’s one of those nostalgic, feel-good recipes that never fails to bring smiles and second helpings, and it’s so simple, you’ll want to make it again and again. Enjoy every sweet, fluffy bite!
Print
Cherry Fluff Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Fluff is a delightful, no-bake dessert or side dish that combines the sweetness of cherry pie filling with the creaminess of Cool Whip, creating a light and fluffy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cherry pie filling and sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Fold in the drained crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts if using.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is evenly incorporated and creamy.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the fluff to set. Serve chilled.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use light Cool Whip and fat-free condensed milk.
- You can substitute chopped pecans with shredded coconut or omit the nuts altogether.
- Great as a dessert or sweet side dish at potlucks and holidays.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
