A delightful addition to your festive table: this scrumptious side dish. A sweet and tangy medley of chopped cranberries and whipped cream cheese provides the foundation, which is then beautifully augmented by the gentle incorporation of mini marshmallows, orange zest, and pineapple, resulting in a sublime side dish that’s impossible to resist a second helping.
Why Our Recipe
- The art of crafting the ultimate cranberry fluff experience with the freshness of nature’s finest ingredients – a tale of simplicity and indulgence.
- The combination of orange zest adds a vibrant depth to the pineapple and cranberry’s natural sweetness, elevating their flavors in harmony.
- When it comes to achieving the richest and most authentic taste, using real cream instead of Cool Whip is the way to go.
With its effortless assembly and minimal components, this airy sweet treat proves to be a breeze to prepare. The hardest part? Waiting patiently for this sweet treat to chill in the refrigerator – and we’re convinced that its optimal flavor is only unlocked when served at a refreshing temperature. While this ambrosia-inspired treat has a sweet and tangy flavor profile reminiscent of a dessert dip, it’s also perfectly suited as a refreshing side dish or even a light and fruity snack. With its irresistible combination of sweet and tangy flavors, this Cranberry Fluff is the perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering – whether it’s a Thanksgiving feast, holiday party, or simply a desire to indulge in the quintessential autumn treat.
Ingredient Notes
- Freshly picked cranberries available in the produce aisle are a top pick for their superior quality.
- Whether you opt for dried orange zest or freshly grated orange zest, the choice ultimately depends on your personal preference and the desired level of intensity in your dish.
- Soften cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy, ensuring a velvety, whipped texture upon mixing. Cold cream cheese causes lumps.
- This isn’t whipping cream, for sure. Use buttermilk as a substitute to preserve the original’s creamy thickness.
- Ensure you thoroughly drain the pineapple to prevent excess juice from making your dip overly watery and difficult to serve?
- To achieve a smooth and enjoyable dip experience, refrain from incorporating the oversized marshmallows, as their size will inevitably result in an unpleasantly lumpy texture that hinders easy consumption.
Cranberries
Fresh cranberries are generally found on store shelves during the autumn season, usually packaged in quantities of around 12 ounces. Though we typically suggest using fresh cranberries, frozen cranberries are a suitable alternative if properly thawed beforehand.
To rinse fresh cranberries, position them in a colander and let a steady stream of chilled water flow over them. Gently manipulate the cranberries with your hands to segregate those exhibiting signs of decay, carefully eliminating any that have become soft or display visible blemishes.
Chilling
A key step in crafting this cranberry fluff recipe lies in chilling the mixture, enabling the flavours to meld together harmoniously while allowing the rich heavy cream and tangy whipped cream cheese to firm up. When refrigerated for at least an hour before serving, the dish’s flavor and consistency are notably enhanced.
Make it a Dip
Savoring this tangy cranberry fluff on its own is a delight, but why not elevate the experience by pairing it with contrasting textures and flavors – think crunchy, sweet, or savory combinations that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride? Crunchy snacks like Ritz crackers, graham crackers, sweet treats such as cookies, and savory alternatives including pretzels make for excellent choices.
Storage Instructions
Since this rich and decadent dessert features a generous dollop of cream cheese, it is essential to refrigerate any leftovers to maintain their velvety texture and prevent spoilage. Store this item in a sealed container to maintain freshness for up to 72 hours, keeping it away from direct sunlight and humid environments.
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