Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s rich and creamy like cheesecake but so much easier to make. It requires no baking and comes together in one bowl. The cherry flavor adds a bright pop that balances the sweetness perfectly. Whether I serve it chilled or scoop it up straight from the bowl, it always hits the spot.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cream cheese (softened)
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Cherry pie filling
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Sweetened condensed milk
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Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
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Mini marshmallows
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Crushed pineapple (drained, optional for extra flavor and texture)
Directions
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I start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s smooth and creamy.
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I add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
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I gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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I stir in the cherry pie filling and drained pineapple, mixing just until combined.
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Lastly, I fold in the mini marshmallows.
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I cover the bowl and refrigerate the fluff for at least 2 hours so the flavors can meld and the texture sets up nicely.
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I give it a quick stir before serving and sometimes top it with extra cherries or whipped topping for presentation.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I use strawberry or blueberry pie filling instead of cherry for a different flavor. I’ve also added chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch. If I want to make it more indulgent, I mix in bits of graham crackers or serve it with graham cracker dippers on the side.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It doesn’t freeze well due to the whipped topping and marshmallows. I never reheat it—it’s best served cold and creamy straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, I usually make it the day before. It gets even better after chilling overnight as the flavors meld together.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
I can, but I make sure it’s stabilized (with gelatin or cream cheese) so it holds up during chilling. Store-bought whipped topping holds its shape better in this recipe.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, I let it come to room temperature so it blends smoothly without lumps.
Can I skip the pineapple?
Yes, the recipe still works without it. I just love the texture and subtle tropical flavor it adds.
Is this a dessert or a salad?
It’s technically a dessert salad, which is a fun, sweet side dish commonly found at potlucks and family gatherings. I serve it either way—it fits both roles.
Conclusion
Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is one of those easy, retro-style desserts that always brings smiles. It’s rich, fruity, and fluffy with that irresistible cheesecake flavor. Whether I serve it at a party or keep it all to myself, it’s a simple delight that never lasts long in my fridge.
Print
Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy, dreamy dessert combines sweet cherries and cheesecake flavor in a light, fluffy no-bake treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
2 cups mini marshmallows
Optional: crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans for topping
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until well combined and creamy.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
Stir in the cherry pie filling and mini marshmallows.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Top with crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans just before serving, if desired.
Notes
Make it lighter by using low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Swap cherry pie filling for strawberry or blueberry for a flavor twist.
Best served chilled; refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Great as a dip with vanilla wafers or graham crackers too!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake, Fluff Salads
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
