Description
This Cranberry Fluff recipe is a light and refreshing dessert combining finely chopped cranberries, mini marshmallows, and sugar chilled to meld flavors, then mixed with fresh tart apples, juicy green grapes, crunchy nuts, and folded with whipped heavy cream. Perfectly fruity and creamy, this make-ahead fluff is ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a cool, festive treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups diced unpeeled tart apples
- 1/2 cup halved green grapes
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
Instructions
- Chop Cranberries: Place fresh or frozen cranberries into a food processor. Cover and process until they are finely chopped into small pieces, ensuring a consistent texture for the fluff.
- Mix with Marshmallows and Sugar: Transfer the chopped cranberries into a large mixing bowl. Add the miniature marshmallows and sugar, then stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling allows the flavors to marry and the marshmallows to soften slightly, creating a balanced texture.
- Add Fresh Fruits and Nuts: Just before serving, stir in diced tart apples, halved green grapes, chopped nuts, and the salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute everything evenly throughout the fluff.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cranberry mixture to add lightness and creaminess. Avoid overmixing to maintain the fluffy texture.
- Serve: Once combined, serve the cranberry fluff immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy as a cool, fruity dessert.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries based on availability; no need to thaw before processing.
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Chilling time is important for texture development and flavor melding; at least 4 hours or overnight yields best results.
- Gently fold whipped cream to maintain the airy texture – avoid vigorous mixing.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
