Grandma’s Cherry Fluff Frozen Salad

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Grandma Jean called this her “pantry miracle”—a cold, fluffy dessert that vanished before the dishes were even washed. It’s the kind of recipe you whip up when the sweet tooth strikes and you’ve only got a few pantry staples. Cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and sweetened condensed milk come together with whipped topping for a light pink, creamy salad streaked with glossy cherry swirls. Retro, comforting, and no-stress, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Serve it frosty but soft enough to scoop, straight from the glass casserole dish. It pairs beautifully with simple mains like grilled chicken, pulled pork, or a sheet pan dinner, and it’s just as welcome at Sunday pot roast or a backyard cookout. For holidays, set the dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves—it disappears faster than the coffee gets poured.
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📝 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry pie filling | 1 (21 oz) can | Sweet, glossy base |
| Crushed pineapple | 1 (20 oz) can, drained | Adds tang & texture |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 (14 oz) can | Creamy sweetness |
| Whipped topping | 1 (8 oz) tub, thawed | Fluffy lightness |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp (optional) | Flavor boost |
| Mini marshmallows | 1 cup (optional) | Extra fluff |
| Pecans or walnuts | ½ cup, chopped (optional) | Crunchy contrast |
| Salt | Pinch (optional) | Balances sweetness |
| Nonstick spray or butter | For greasing dish | Helps release slices |
👩🍳 Directions
1. Prep the dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass casserole dish with spray or butter.
2. Mix the fruit
Combine cherry pie filling and drained pineapple in a large bowl. Stir gently for pretty cherry swirls.
3. Add the cream base
Stir in sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Fold in whipped topping
Gently fold in thawed whipped topping to keep the mixture airy.
5. Add extras (optional)
Fold in marshmallows and/or nuts for fluff and crunch.
6. Freeze
Spread mixture evenly in prepared dish. Cover tightly and freeze at least 4 hours (overnight for best texture).
7. Serve
Let soften 10–15 minutes before serving. Scoop or slice into squares while still frosty.
Storage: Keep covered in freezer; leftovers soften nicely in the fridge for up to 2 days.
✨ Cold, creamy, and nostalgic—Grandma Jean’s cherry fluff frozen salad is the pantry miracle that never lasts long.




