Cranberry Marshmallow Fluff Salad Recipe for Holidays

Cranberry Salad with Marshmallows and Whipped Cream transforms skeptics into fans of this bright, tart berry. It’s one of my favorite Thanksgiving side dishes and usually disappears first. Easy to prepare and even better when made a day ahead, this cranberry fluff is perfect for holiday menus.

For many, cranberries at Thanksgiving mean the canned, gelatinous version I grew up with. The first time I attended a Jones family Thanksgiving after marrying in, I discovered this light, fluffy cranberry salad—and I’ve loved it ever since.

Some people object to calling this dish a “salad,” and I understand the skepticism—this is a dessert-like side rather than a green salad. I only enjoy it on Thanksgiving and Christmas, when indulgence is part of the celebration. I don’t worry about calories those days; I focus on what tastes great.

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up when prepared in advance. The marshmallows soften overnight and the flavors meld, so the salad often tastes even better the second day. I usually make all my sides ahead of time so I can focus on the turkey and mashed potatoes on the big day.

This short video shows how simple the recipe is—just a couple of bowls and a hand mixer are all you need. It’s a great recipe for kids to help with.

Cranberry Marshmallow Fluff Salad Video

If you’d like a fresh cranberry sauce to serve alongside this salad, a simple version using fresh oranges pairs beautifully with turkey and other holiday dishes.