There’s something magical about the balance of tart cranberries, juicy fruit, and pillowy marshmallows — all wrapped in a cloud of sweet whipped cream. This festive salad isn’t just for Thanksgiving; it’s a year-round treat if you can get your hands on fresh cranberries. It’s visually stunning, making it a centerpiece-worthy side dish for any celebration. Kids love the sweetness, adults appreciate the tart crunch, and everyone comes back for seconds. Best of all? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead, so it’s ready to shine when you are.
Ingredients for Creamy Cranberry & Pineapple Holiday Salad
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12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
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1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
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1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
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1 small can crushed pineapple, lightly drained (about 8 oz / 227 g)
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1 1/2 cups (355 ml) heavy cream, cold
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1 Granny Smith apple, chopped into small pieces
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2 cups (100 g) miniature marshmallows
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1/4 cup (30 g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
How to Make Creamy Cranberry & Pineapple Holiday Salad
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Using a food chopper or processor, combine rinsed cranberries and granulated sugar. Process until the cranberries are finely ground and evenly mixed with the sugar. Transfer to a large serving bowl and fold in the pineapple, apple pieces, and marshmallows. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld.
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Just before serving, whip the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. (You can omit the powdered sugar if you prefer less sweetness, but it balances the natural tartness of the cranberries beautifully.) For best results, chill the mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before whipping to keep the cream as cold as possible.
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Fold in the optional pecans or walnuts into the cranberry mixture. Gently combine the whipped cream with the fruit mixture, then serve immediately.
A Festive Salad Everyone Will Remember
This creamy cranberry salad is the perfect marriage of sweet, tart, and crunchy. It’s colorful, flavorful, and effortlessly festive — the kind of dish guests remember long after the plates are cleared. Whether it’s on a holiday table or at a summer potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings both freshness and indulgence to any meal.
