Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
Whether you grew up calling it ambrosia or fluff, we all remember some form of jello-marshmallow dessert that’s a pretty pastel and tasty to boot. These days it’s fun to bring back classics, tweaking them slightly to cater to more modern palates…as we did with this cherry cheesecake fluff. Thanks to cheesecake instant pudding mix, we made ourselves a fluff version of a classic dessert, cherry cheesecake. Whereas cheesecake takes several hours to prepare, cook and cool, this no-bake version comes together in a matter of minutes, and then it’s just about letting it set before digging in – if you can wait that long, you’ll be rewarded, we promise.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cherry cheesecake fluff is a delightful throwback to simpler times, with a modern twist that makes it irresistible. You’ll love its creamy texture, bright cherry flavor, and the subtle tang of cream cheese. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any baking, which means you can whip it up for any occasion in no time.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Spatula
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (3.4 oz.) cheesecake instant pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 (8 oz.) package frozen whipped topping
- 1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (10 oz.) bag mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl or using a mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and instant pudding mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and milk, and continue to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the frozen whipped topping gently to retain its fluffy texture.
- Add the cherry pie filling and mini marshmallows, carefully folding them into the mixture until evenly distributed.
- Refrigerate the mixture until ready to serve, allowing it to set for about an hour for best results.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese to avoid lumps in your fluff.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain its light texture.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you’re not a fan of cherries, try swapping them out for another fruit pie filling like blueberry or peach. For a citrusy twist, lemon pie filling works wonderfully as well. Feel free to add nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dessert is not only delicious but also a treat to enjoy in moderation. It offers a balance of creamy goodness and sweet cherries, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you may want to cook them down slightly with some sugar to mimic the pie filling’s sweetness and consistency.
How long can I store this fluff in the refrigerator?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This fluff can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This cherry cheesecake fluff is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that will surely impress your family and friends. Its nostalgic flavors combined with a modern twist make it a perfect addition to any gathering. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you. We’d love to hear your variations and experiences in the comments below!