Christmas Cherry Fluff is a festive, light, and fluffy dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. It combines the sweetness of maraschino cherries with creamy whipped topping and a delicious blend of other ingredients that give it a unique flavor and texture. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings, offering both a creamy and fruity twist. Whether served as a side dish or dessert, this fluffy treat adds a pop of color to your Christmas table and is sure to be loved by kids and adults alike.

This easy-to-make dish doesn’t require much time or effort, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks during the holidays. Cherry Fluff also offers versatility, allowing you to experiment with variations while keeping the core flavors intact. Let’s dive into how to make this festive treat!

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Ingredients:

• 1 (15 oz) can of crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 (12 oz) container of whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
• 1 (8 oz) can of maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cherry juice (optional, for extra flavor)

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Preparation:

Step 1: Drain the Pineapple and Cherries

Start by draining the canned crushed pineapple and maraschino cherries. You want to remove any excess liquid to ensure your fluff doesn’t become too runny. Set the pineapple and cherries aside.

Step 2: Combine Sour Cream and Whipped Topping

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and whipped topping. Use a spatula to fold them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This base forms the creamy texture of your Cherry Fluff.

Step 3: Add Pineapple and Cherries

Gently fold the drained crushed pineapple and chopped maraschino cherries into the whipped topping and sour cream mixture. The pineapple adds a refreshing tropical flavor, while the cherries bring in that vibrant red color and a sweet tang.

Step 4: Stir in Mini Marshmallows and Optional Ingredients

Next, add in the mini marshmallows, which give the fluff its signature chewy texture. If you’re using shredded coconut and chopped nuts, now is the time to fold them into the mixture. The coconut adds a mild sweetness, and the nuts bring a lovely crunch to contrast with the smoothness of the fluff. Stir everything gently to evenly distribute.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling the Cherry Fluff allows the flavors to meld together, and the dessert firms up slightly, making it easier to serve. After it has chilled, give it a quick stir before serving to ensure everything is mixed evenly.

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Variations:

1. Coconut Cherry Fluff
If you’re a coconut lover, you can add more shredded coconut to give it a tropical vibe. You can even toast the coconut before mixing it in for an extra layer of flavor.

2. Nut-Free Version
For those with nut allergies or preferences, simply omit the pecans or walnuts. The recipe will still be delicious and safe for everyone.

3. Adding Fruit Cocktail
For a different twist, add a small can of fruit cocktail, drained thoroughly, to the fluff. This will introduce a variety of flavors, making it even more festive.

4. Use Whipped Cream
If you prefer homemade whipped cream, you can substitute it for the store-bought whipped topping. This will make the fluff even richer and more decadent.

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Cooking Note:

Although there is no actual “cooking” involved in making Cherry Fluff, it’s essential to ensure that the pineapple and cherries are well-drained. Excess liquid can make the dessert too watery. Be patient and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to develop fully.

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Serving Suggestions:

Christmas Cherry Fluff can be served as a light dessert or a festive side dish to complement heavier main courses. Here are a few ideas:

• Holiday Buffet: Place the Cherry Fluff in a large bowl or festive serving dish and place it in the center of the table for guests to scoop.
• Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, serve the fluff in small individual bowls or cups.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: Add an extra layer of whipped cream on top of each serving for added richness.
• Add Fruit Garnish: Garnish each serving with a maraschino cherry or a sprig of mint for a simple decorative touch.

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Tips:

1. Chill Time is Key: The longer you let the Cherry Fluff chill, the better it tastes. Ideally, let it sit overnight to give the ingredients time to meld together.
2. Drain Ingredients Thoroughly: Ensure that the pineapple and cherries are properly drained, as excess liquid can affect the texture of the fluff.
3. Adjust Sweetness: If you like your fluff sweeter, you can increase the amount of marshmallows or add a spoonful of sugar, but be careful not to overdo it, as the marshmallows and cherries already add significant sweetness.
4. Add Extra Flavor: If you want an extra burst of cherry flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cherry juice or maraschino cherry syrup to the mix.
5. Make Ahead: This recipe can be made a day or two in advance, making it perfect for holiday meal prep.

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Prep Time:

• 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients.

Cooking Time:

• No cooking time required, but you’ll need at least 2 hours for chilling (preferably overnight for the best results).

Total Time:

• 2 hours and 10 minutes (including chill time).

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Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 10 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 25g

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FAQs:

1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple and cherries. Just be sure to chop them finely and drain the fresh pineapple before mixing.

2. How long can I store Christmas Cherry Fluff?
The dessert can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best when eaten fresh or within the first 24 hours after preparation.

3. Can I make Cherry Fluff ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for make-ahead prep. It can be prepared a day or two before serving, which makes it a great option for busy holiday planning.

4. Can I make this dessert without whipped topping?
Yes, if you prefer a more natural approach, you can substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream. This will make the fluff richer and a bit more decadent.

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Conclusion:

Christmas Cherry Fluff is an easy, colorful, and fun holiday dessert that combines creamy textures with the sweet, tangy flavor of cherries. This no-bake recipe is a great addition to your Christmas dinner spread or any holiday gathering. The best part? It’s versatile and customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a sweet side dish, a dessert to share, or simply something fun and different for the season, Christmas Cherry Fluff is sure to be a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time in the fridge, you can serve up a dish that’s as festive as it is delicious.