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Christmas Cherry Fluff: A Festive & Easy Dessert Recipe

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Easy, festive Christmas Cherry Fluff salad! Classic holiday dessert with sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, pineapple, cherries, and marshmallows. Optional nuts and coconut add flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Combine Sweetened Condensed Milk and Whipped Topping: In a large bowl, gently fold together the sweetened condensed milk and the thawed whipped topping until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  2. Add the Crushed Pineapple: Add the entire can of crushed pineapple, including the juice, to the bowl. Gently fold into the mixture.
  3. Add the Maraschino Cherries: Gently fold in the halved, well-drained maraschino cherries.
  4. Incorporate the Miniature Marshmallows: Add the miniature marshmallows and gently fold them in.
  5. Add the Chopped Nuts (Optional): If using, gently fold the chopped nuts into the mixture.
  6. Chill the Fluff: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with shredded coconut (optional). Spoon into serving dishes and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping.
  • For a lighter version, use light sweetened condensed milk and light whipped topping.
  • Add a touch of citrus: Zest a lemon or orange into the mixture for a bright, refreshing flavor.
  • Use different fruits: Substitute some of the cherries with other fruits, such as mandarin oranges or strawberries.
  • Make it boozy: Add a tablespoon or two of cherry liqueur or rum for an adult twist.
  • Presentation is key: Serve the fluff in a pretty glass bowl or individual parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
  • Make ahead: This fluff can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
  • Don’t overmix: Overmixing will deflate the whipped topping and result in a denser fluff.
  • Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet fluff, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
  • Nut allergies: If you have nut allergies, omit the nuts or use a nut-free alternative, such as sunflower seeds.
  • Fluff is too watery: Make sure the pineapple and cherries are well-drained before adding them to the mixture. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken it.
  • Fluff is too dense: Avoid overmixing the ingredients. Gently fold everything together until just combined.
  • Fluff is not sweet enough: Add a tablespoon or two of powdered sugar to taste.
  • Fluff is too sweet: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
  • Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/christmas-cherry-fluff/