Cranberry Bliss Whipped Salad
This delightful Cranberry Bliss Whipped Salad is a festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings. The tartness of fresh cranberries harmonizes beautifully with sweet crushed pineapple and mini marshmallows, creating a luscious blend of textures and flavors. Topped off with light and airy whipped cream, this dessert is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—simply mix, chill overnight, and serve! The chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite a refreshing indulgence.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh cranberries
1 lb (washed)
sugar
1 cup (granulated)
crushed pineapple
1 cup (very well drained)
mini marshmallows
1 (12 ounce) package (none)
whipping cream
1 cup (whipped)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the fresh cranberries and placing them in a food processor. Pulse until they are finely chopped.
2
Transfer the chopped cranberries to a mixing bowl and add the granulated sugar. Mix well until the sugar partially dissolves, allowing the cranberries to release some of their juices.
3
Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and the mini marshmallows, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4
Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much for a light texture.
5
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the mixture chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
6
Before serving, stir the salad lightly to reconstitute, then divide into individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cranberry Bliss Whipped Salad?
It is a festive dessert salad featuring a blend of finely chopped fresh cranberries, sugar, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and whipped cream.
How should I prepare the fresh cranberries?
Wash the cranberries and pulse them in a food processor until they are finely chopped before mixing with other ingredients.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but ensure they are thawed and drained well before pulsing them in the food processor.
How much sugar is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of granulated sugar to balance the tartness of the fresh cranberries.
Why do the cranberries need to sit with the sugar?
Mixing the chopped cranberries with sugar allows them to release their natural juices and partially dissolve the sugar for better flavor.
Does the crushed pineapple need to be drained?
Yes, it is essential to drain the crushed pineapple very well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
What type of marshmallows are used in this salad?
One 12-ounce package of mini marshmallows is used to provide sweetness and a soft texture.
Can I use pre-made whipped topping like Cool Whip?
While the recipe calls for 1 cup of heavy cream whipped, you can substitute it with a similar volume of pre-made whipped topping if preferred.
How do I incorporate the whipped cream?
Gently fold the whipped cream into the fruit and marshmallow mixture to maintain a light and airy texture.
How long does the salad need to chill?
The salad should be covered and refrigerated overnight for the best results.
Why is overnight chilling necessary?
Chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld together and helps the salad firm up to its ideal consistency.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings.
Is this recipe considered a dessert or a side dish?
While categorized as a dessert, it is often served as a festive side dish during holiday meals.
Can I add nuts to the Cranberry Bliss Whipped Salad?
Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts can provide a nice crunch and complement the flavors well.
What is the best way to chop the cranberries without a food processor?
If you do not have a food processor, you can finely mince the cranberries by hand using a sharp chef's knife.
Can this salad be made a few days in advance?
It is best made one day in advance; making it too far ahead may cause the marshmallows to soften too much.
How should I store leftover salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Can I freeze Cranberry Bliss Whipped Salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the whipped cream and marshmallows will change significantly upon thawing.
Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?
Yes, a granulated sugar substitute can be used, though it may slightly alter the final taste and juice release of the cranberries.
What should I do if the salad is too runny after chilling?
Ensure the pineapple was drained thoroughly; if it is still runny, you can fold in a bit more whipped cream or marshmallows.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your marshmallows and whipped cream.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, as long as it is finely crushed and very well drained of its natural juices.
What holidays is this salad typically served for?
It is a popular choice for Thanksgiving and Christmas due to its festive color and seasonal ingredients.
Can I use large marshmallows if I cut them up?
Mini marshmallows are preferred for even distribution, but chopped large marshmallows can work in a pinch.
How do I serve the salad?
Give it a light stir to reconstitute and serve it in individual dessert dishes or a large decorative glass bowl.
Is the salad very tart?
The tartness of the cranberries is balanced by the sugar and marshmallows, creating a sweet and tangy profile.
What can I use if I don't have heavy whipping cream?
A stabilized whipped topping is the best alternative to maintain the salad's structure.
Can I add other fruits like grapes or apples?
Yes, diced apples or halved grapes are common variations that pair well with the cranberry base.
Does the recipe require any cooking?
No, this is a no-cook recipe that only requires assembly and chilling.
How do I prevent the whipped cream from deflating?
Use a folding motion with a spatula rather than stirring vigorously when combining the cream with the fruit mixture.