If you’re looking for a ridiculously easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sweet, creamy, and just a little nostalgic, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Cherry Fluff Salad. It’s that perfect no-bake, no-fuss dessert (or side dish) that shows up at every family gathering, potluck, or holiday and disappears almost instantly.
I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that both kids and adults go crazy over. It’s light, fruity, and feels like a little scoop of happiness. Plus, it comes together in just about 5 minutes, which is a total win for busy days.
Let’s dive into it!
What You’ll Need
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Pro Tips
- Drain the pineapple really well: Extra juice will make your salad soupy, so take an extra minute to really press out the liquid.
- Fold gently: To keep the salad fluffy and light, gently fold everything together instead of stirring hard.
- Chill it if you can: Even 1–2 hours of chilling makes the flavors come together beautifully and improves the texture.
- Skip the nuts if serving to kids: Some little ones aren’t fans of crunch in a soft dessert, so you can leave them out or offer them on the side.
- Double the recipe for a party: Trust me, it goes fast. Make more if you’re bringing it to a potluck or family gathering.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Can opener
- Strainer (for the pineapple)
- Measuring cups
Substitutions and Variations
- Whipped cream: Swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream if you prefer a less sweet, fresher taste.
- Greek yogurt: Replace half the Cool Whip with plain or vanilla Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.
- Different pie fillings: Try strawberry, blueberry, or even peach pie filling for a fun twist.
- Add-ins: Mix in shredded coconut, mandarin oranges, or chopped maraschino cherries for more flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Tips
Cherry Fluff Salad actually gets better after it sits for a few hours. You can make it up to 24 hours ahead, just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. Give it a gentle stir before serving to freshen it up.
How to Make Cherry Fluff Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling and sweetened condensed milk.
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and mini marshmallows.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is well mixed and fluffy.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and texture.
That’s it. So easy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 90mg
Ingredient Swaps for Various Diets:
- Lower sugar: Use a “no sugar added” pie filling and low-fat condensed milk.
- Vegan: Swap Cool Whip for a dairy-free whipped topping and use coconut condensed milk.
Meal Pairing Suggestions
- Perfect side for a summer barbecue
- Serve with ham or roasted turkey at holidays
- Great alongside a brunch spread with quiches and fruit
Cooking Time Efficiency Tips
- Drain your pineapple while gathering the other ingredients to save time.
- Use pre-chopped nuts or pre-made whipped topping to cut down prep work.
- Mix it directly in your serving bowl to avoid extra dishes.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving to recombine any ingredients that have separated.
- Not recommended for freezing – the texture will break down when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make cherry fluff salad the night before?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight.
Can I freeze cherry fluff salad?
Not recommended. Freezing changes the texture and can make it watery when thawed.
What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
You can whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and use that instead.
Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely. Mandarin oranges, grapes, or diced strawberries work beautifully in this salad.
Is there a nut-free version?
Yes. Just leave out the nuts if you’re serving anyone with allergies or preferences.
Wrap Up
Cherry Fluff Salad is the kind of recipe that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to create something everyone will love. It’s creamy, fruity, sweet, and just plain fun — perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a sweet treat anytime.
Give it a try, then come back and leave a comment sharing how it turned out for you! If you have any questions or want to share your favorite twist on this classic, I’d love to hear it.
