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Simple Cranberry Fluff from Scratch
I'm excited to pass on this no-fuss cranberry fluff that's turned into my go-to holiday treat. This quick dish mixes tangy fresh cranberries, juicy pineapple, and soft marshmallows all blended in a smooth, airy mixture. It works great as a side or after-dinner sweet at your seasonal get-togethers, and folks always want to know how to make it.
What Makes This Quick Dish Special
This no-fuss fluff wins holiday hearts because:
- You'll need just a handful of basic items to whip it up
- Each spoonful gives you that perfect sweet-tart combo
- You can fix it beforehand to cut down on holiday rush
- It fits in as a quick side or light sweet ending
Basic Items Needed for Scratch Cranberry Fluff
- Fresh Cranberries: They're the main player here, adding that holiday tang.
- Granulated Sugar: Balances out those sharp cranberries just right.
- Cream Cheese: Gives our scratch fluff that velvety feel.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Turns into soft, puffy goodness.
- Crushed Pineapple: Brings in sunny, sweet notes to this quick mix.
- Mini Marshmallows: Makes that signature puffy texture we love.
Quick How-To Guide
- Break Down Those Berries
- Chop up cranberries with sugar in your food processor. You want them somewhere between chunky and fine.
- Whip Up The Smooth Base
- Work that cream cheese till it's silky, then mix in cream, sugar and vanilla. Your blend should look light and airy.
- Mix Everything Together
- Fold in your cranberry mix, drained pineapple chunks and those soft marshmallows. Go gentle with this step.
- Cool It Down
- Let your scratch fluff hang out in the fridge for 2+ hours so all the flavors can mingle.
Tricks For Getting It Right
- Sugar Soak: Give cranberries time with the sugar and they'll lose some tartness.
- Cold Option: Don't have fresh berries? Thawed frozen ones work too, just drain them well.
- Crunch Boost: Try adding some chopped nuts if you want more texture.
- Time Saver: In a rush? Cool Whip can stand in for the whipped cream.
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Plan Ahead and Keep Fresh
- You can fix this quick dish up to 2 days early if you keep it wrapped up in the fridge.
- Your scratch fluff stays good in the fridge for 3 days but don't try freezing it.
A No-Fuss Holiday Favorite
This quick scratch cranberry fluff packs sweet, tangy and creamy into every bite. It's such a must-have at my family gatherings that the holidays wouldn't feel complete without it. Once you try this no-fuss dish, I bet it'll become a regular at your seasonal table too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do you process cranberries with sugar?
It softens the berries and balances out their sourness.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Sure! It’s fine to prepare it a day before and pop it in the fridge.
- → What’s the reason for whipping to stiff peaks?
This helps keep the fluff light and airy, even after mixing.
- → Can frozen cranberries be used?
Fresh is preferable, but thawed and well-drained frozen ones work too.
- → Why does pineapple need to be drained?
Extra juice could make the fluff too watery and ruin the texture.