Name: Grandma’s Cherry Fluff Frozen Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling; 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained; 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 (8-ounce) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); Pinch of salt (optional); 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; Nonstick cooking spray or a thin layer of softened butter for greasing the dish

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Grandma’s Cherry Fluff Frozen Salad is a delightful, nostalgic dessert that’s both creamy and fruity. With cherry swirls and a fluffy texture, it’s perfect for warm days or family gatherings. Simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this frozen salad brings sweet memories to the table.

A clear square glass dish holds a single thick layer of pink, fluffy, and creamy dessert mixed with small light yellow fruit pieces. Scattered across the top are whole red cherries and swirls of bright red cherry sauce creating a glossy and textured look. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (8-ounce) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but tasty)
1 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra fluff)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
Pinch of salt (optional, to balance the sweetness)
Nonstick cooking spray or a thin layer of softened butter for greasing the dish

Instructions

Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray or a thin swipe of softened butter. This helps the frozen salad release more easily when you scoop or slice it later.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, add the cherry pie filling and drained crushed pineapple. Stir gently until the fruit is evenly combined and you see pretty cherry swirls running through the pineapple.
Step 3: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and add the vanilla extract if using. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt if desired. Stir until everything is well blended and the mixture looks smooth and creamy with streaks of cherry.
Step 4: Fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula and a gentle folding motion to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
Step 5: If using mini marshmallows and/or chopped nuts, fold them in now until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Pour the cherry fluff mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Smooth the top with the spatula but don’t worry if some cherry swirls remain visible.
Step 7: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until firm.
Step 8: About 10–15 minutes before serving, remove from the freezer to soften slightly. Serve cold using a spoon or small spatula.

Tips & Variations

For an extra pop of flavor, add a splash of almond extract in place of vanilla.
Try substituting chopped walnuts for pecans or omit nuts entirely if preferred.
Mini marshmallows add a delightful fluffiness, but feel free to leave them out for a smoother texture.
Use a glass dish for easier release and prettier presentation.

Storage

Store the frozen salad covered in the freezer for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature for 10–15 minutes for easier scooping. Avoid refreezing once softened to maintain texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear glass square dish filled with a creamy, pink mixture as one thick layer. The texture looks fluffy and slightly chunky, with visible pieces of light yellow fruit and whole bright red cherries scattered throughout the top and mixed inside. Some red cherry syrup swirls gently on the top surface, adding a glossy shine. The dish is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making the day before your event. Just prepare it, freeze overnight, and serve the next day.

What can I use instead of frozen whipped topping?

You can substitute thawed homemade whipped cream or a stable whipped cream alternative, but be sure it holds up well when frozen to maintain the fluffiness.