Grandma’s Cherry Fluff Frozen Salad Recipe
Grandma’s Cherry Fluff Frozen Salad is a nostalgic, creamy, and fruity dessert that combines cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, and light whipped topping to create a fluffy, flavorful treat. Enhanced with optional marshmallows and nuts for added texture, this no-bake, freezer-set dessert is perfect for summertime gatherings and holiday celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Mixture
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained
Dairy and Sweeteners
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8-ounce) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Pinch of salt
For Preparation
- Nonstick cooking spray or thin layer of softened butter (for greasing the dish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray or a thin layer of softened butter. This ensures the frozen salad will release easily when serving.
- Combine Fruits: In a large mixing bowl, add the cherry pie filling and the well-drained crushed pineapple. Gently stir until the fruits are evenly mixed and you see cherry swirls running through the pineapple.
- Add Dairy and Flavorings: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and add the vanilla extract if using. Add a pinch of salt if you prefer to balance the sweetness. Stir the mixture until smooth, creamy, and well blended with visible cherry streaks.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula with a light folding motion to maintain as much airiness as possible, creating a fluffy and light texture.
- Add Optional Marshmallows and Nuts: If desired, fold in mini marshmallows and chopped pecans or walnuts until evenly distributed to add extra fluff and crunch.
- Transfer to Dish and Freeze: Pour the cherry fluff mixture into the prepared casserole dish and smooth the top. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until firm enough to slice.
- Soften Before Serving: About 10 to 15 minutes before serving, remove the dish from the freezer and let it soften slightly at room temperature to make scooping or cutting easier.
- Serve: Serve cold directly from the dish using a spoon or small spatula. Enjoy promptly as this dessert tends to disappear quickly!
Notes
- Use well-drained crushed pineapple to avoid excess liquid affecting the dessert’s texture.
- Folding in the whipped topping gently is crucial to keep the fluff light and airy.
- For best results, prepare the salad at least 4 hours before serving, preferably freezing overnight.
- The optional marshmallows add sweetness and fluffiness; nuts add crunch—both can be omitted or substituted.
- If you do not have a 9×13-inch dish, a similar-sized freezer-safe container will work.
- This dessert is best served cold but softened slightly for easy serving.
Keywords: cherry fluff, frozen salad, cherry pie filling dessert, no bake dessert, retro dessert, pineapple salad, chilled dessert, easy holiday dessert
