Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is a creamy, dreamy dessert that combines rich cream cheese, sweet cherry pie filling, and fluffy whipped topping. With bright pops of color and a light, airy texture, this no-bake dessert is perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or as an indulgent treat for your Christmas table.
Ingredients:
For the Fluff:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Whole cherries
- Crushed graham crackers
- Red and green sprinkles
Preparation:
1: Cream the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
2: Add the Whipped Topping
- Gently fold in the whipped topping (Cool Whip) until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3: Combine the Fruit and Marshmallows
- Stir in the cherry pie filling and drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the mini marshmallows and shredded coconut (if using), folding gently until everything is well combined.
4: Chill the Fluff
- Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or individual dessert cups.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the fluff to firm up.
5: Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, garnish with whole cherries, crushed graham crackers, and festive red and green sprinkles.
- Serve chilled for best results.
Variations:
- Chocolate Cherry Fluff: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for a chocolaty twist.
- Nutty Cherry Fluff: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
- Cherry Coconut Delight: Add extra shredded coconut for more tropical flavor and texture.
Cooking Notes:
- Drain the pineapple well: Excess liquid can make the fluff watery, so ensure the crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained.
- Fold gently: To keep the fluff light and airy, avoid overmixing once the whipped topping is added.
- Chill for best texture: Refrigerating allows the fluff to firm up and enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Dessert Bowl: Serve in a decorative bowl and garnish with whole cherries and graham cracker crumbs for a festive centerpiece.
- Individual Portions: Spoon into small cups, mason jars, or dessert glasses for an elegant presentation.
- Dipper Platter: Pair the fluff with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or pretzels for dipping.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: Prepare the fluff a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Store leftovers: Keep any remaining fluff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a festive touch: Use holiday-themed sprinkles, edible glitter, or sugared cherries for extra flair.
Prep Time:
15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 85mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
A: Yes, you can substitute with fresh cherries cooked down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch for a homemade version.
Q: Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Fluff?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the whipped topping and fruit.
Q: Can I make this fluff dairy-free?
A: Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Q: How can I make this fluff lighter?
A: Use light cream cheese and a sugar-free whipped topping to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion:
Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is a simple yet decadent dessert that’s bursting with holiday cheer. With its creamy texture, sweet cherry flavor, and festive garnishes, it’s a no-bake treat that’s perfect for any Christmas celebration. Quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, this fluff is sure to become a holiday favorite. Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, fruity delight!
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Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Fluff:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Whole cherries
- Crushed graham crackers
- Red and green sprinkles
Instructions
Preparation:
1: Cream the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
2: Add the Whipped Topping
- Gently fold in the whipped topping (Cool Whip) until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3: Combine the Fruit and Marshmallows
- Stir in the cherry pie filling and drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the mini marshmallows and shredded coconut (if using), folding gently until everything is well combined.
4: Chill the Fluff
- Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or individual dessert cups.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the fluff to firm up.
5: Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, garnish with whole cherries, crushed graham crackers, and festive red and green sprinkles.
- Serve chilled for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sodium: 85mg
- Protein: 2g