Cherry Fluff
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Fluff recipes have become a specialty here, and for good reason. From my viral blueberry fluff to my popular peach fluff, these easy dessert salads consistently rank among the most popular recipes on the site. This cherry fluff is the next addition to that collection, created with the same simple, family-friendly approach that readers love.
It has the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and sweet, and it comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients, making it ideal for holidays, potlucks, and last-minute desserts.
Easy Cherry Fluff Salad Recipe
I receive hundreds of thousands of page views every year just from my fluff salad recipes so I had to make a new one since they are so popular.
With just a few ingredients, my cherry fluff comes together in minutes, making it a perfect make-ahead recipe. It’s sweet, creamy, and bursting with cherry flavor in every bite.
What makes my recipe even better than most is the cheesecake pudding mix. It adds a rich, silky texture and just the right amount of tang. Mixed with cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and soft marshmallows, it creates the ultimate fluffy dessert.
Why My Cherry Fluff Salad is the Best
- Cheesecake pudding makes all the difference – The slight tang from cheesecake pudding adds a rich, creamy depth of flavor you won’t get from some other versions.
- Perfectly rich and creamy texture – The combination of creamy pudding, fluffy Cool Whip, and soft marshmallows creates a light yet decadent consistency.
- Beginner-friendly – It’s easy enough for anyone to make. Just mix, chill, and enjoy!
- Versatile for any occasion – Whether it’s a family gathering, Valentine’s Day, or a summer cookout, this cherry fluff dessert is always a great dessert option.
What’s Need to Make This Cherry Fluff Recipe
Below is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this recipe. Scroll down to the full recipe card for the specific amounts.
- Crushed pineapple (with juice) – Adds natural sweetness and helps dissolve the pudding mix for a smooth consistency.
- Canned cherry pie filling – The star ingredient that gives this fluff its signature bright color and cherry flavor.
- Cheesecake pudding mix – Thickens the base and adds a rich, creamy texture with a hint of tangy cheesecake flavor.
- Cool Whip, thawed – Lightens up the fluff, making it smooth, airy, and easy to scoop.
- Mini marshmallows – Add a soft, chewy texture and help bulk up the salad for that classic fluff consistency.
- Maraschino cherries (for topping) – A sweet and colorful garnish that makes every serving look extra special.
How to Make Cherry Fluff Dessert Salad
Here are my step-by-step instructions so you can make this recipe with ease. For the full, printable recipe with amounts and temperatures, scroll down to the recipe card below.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice), cherry pie filling, and cheesecake pudding mix.
- Stir until the pudding mix is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated.
- Add the mini marshmallows and fold them in evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, top with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and extra sweetness.
- Use full-fat Cool Whip for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Let it chill for at least 2 hours so the flavors come together and the texture sets perfectly.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip to keep the fluff light and airy.
- Use the full can of crushed pineapple, including the juice. This helps dissolve the pudding mix and keeps everything smooth.
- Don’t overmix. A good stir is enough to mix everything without deflating the fluff.
Suggestions and Alternatives
- Swap the pudding flavor – Try vanilla or white chocolate pudding mix for a slightly different twist.
- Nuts – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch.
- Coconut – Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Different pie fillings – Strawberry or blueberry pie filling works well for a fun variation.
- Fresh fruit – You can fold in diced strawberries or fresh raspberries for a burst of fresh fruit flavor.
- Cherries: I used maraschino cherries as a topping, but you can swap them from fresh if you prefer.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving.
- Freeze – I do not recommend freezing this because it changes the texture of the marshmallows and Cool Whip.
No, use the liquid from the crushed pineapple. It helps dissolve the pudding mix and creates a creamy texture.
No, cherry pie filling is essential for the pink color, moisture, and signature flavor of the fluff. Using fresh or maraschino cherries alone won’t provide the same texture or consistency.
Absolutely! If you want to use an entire 10-oz bag, go for it. The fluff will still turn out delicious.
For another easy no-bake cherry dessert, be sure to try my Cherries in the Snow recipe.
More Amazing Fluff Desserts
- Banana Split Fluff
- Blueberry Fluff Salad
- Banana Split Fluff
- Strawberry Fluff
- Pistachio Fluff
- Orange Fluff
- Cherry Fluff
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Cherry Fluff
Ingredients
- 20 ounce can crushed pineapple (with juice) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 21 ounce can cherry pie filling can cherry pie filling
- 3.4 ounce box cheesecake pudding mix
- 8 ounces Cool Whip thawed
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- Maraschino cherries for topping
Instructions
Mix the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice), cherry pie filling, and cheesecake pudding mix.20 ounce can crushed pineapple (with juice), 21 ounce can cherry pie filling, 3.4 ounce box cheesecake pudding mix
- Stir until the pudding mix is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Fold in Cool Whip and Marshmallows:
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated.8 ounces Cool Whip
- Add the mini marshmallows and fold them in evenly.4 cups mini marshmallows
Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, top with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and extra sweetness.Maraschino cherries
Did You Make This Recipe?
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