Name: Strawberry Fluff Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin; 1 cup boiling water; 1/2 cup cold water; 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip); 1 (16 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained; 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1/2 cup sour cream

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

A delightful and fluffy dessert salad that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the creaminess of whipped topping, pineapple, marshmallows, and a hint of sour cream. Perfect for potlucks or as a refreshing summer side dish, this no-cook treat is nostalgic, colorful, and irresistibly good. Strawberry Fluff Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and satisfying this strawberry fluff salad is. It takes minimal effort, requires no baking, and brings a burst of fruity, creamy goodness in every bite. I can whip it up in just a few minutes and let it chill while I handle the rest of the meal. Whether I’m preparing it for a barbecue, family gathering, or just a lazy weekend treat, it always brings smiles. The combination of strawberries and pineapple gives it a tropical freshness, while the marshmallows and whipped topping add that fluffy texture I can’t resist.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 (16 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup sour cream

Directions

I start by dissolving the strawberry gelatin in boiling water in a large bowl. Once it’s fully dissolved, I stir in the cold water and let it cool to room temperature.
After that, I fold in the whipped topping until everything is smooth and well mixed. Then I add in the drained pineapple, mini marshmallows, chopped strawberries, and sour cream. I stir everything gently so the fruit and fluff stay intact.
I cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours until it’s fully set. I always serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings. It only takes me 10 minutes to prepare, and while there’s no cooking involved, I do let it chill in the fridge for about 2 hours before serving. That gives it time to set perfectly and develop that creamy, fluffy texture I love.

Variations

Sometimes I like to mix things up by adding 1/2 cup of chopped bananas for a tropical twist or tossing in some sliced almonds for a bit of crunch. When fresh strawberries aren’t in season, I use thawed and drained frozen ones. The salad is also great with different flavored gelatin—raspberry or cherry gives it a fun flavor change.

storage/reheating

I keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture holds up pretty well, though I try to stir it gently before serving again if it separates a bit. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the whipped topping and gelatin don’t thaw well. Reheating isn’t necessary, since it’s meant to be served cold.

FAQs

What type of whipped topping should I use?

I usually go with a classic non-dairy whipped topping like Cool Whip, but homemade whipped cream can work if it’s stabilized well.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. I actually prefer to make it a day ahead so the flavors have time to meld and it sets up nicely in the fridge.

Is it okay to use frozen strawberries?

Yes, I use frozen strawberries when fresh ones aren’t available. I just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid adding extra moisture.

Can I leave out the sour cream?

I like the slight tang the sour cream brings, but if I want a sweeter version, I swap it with Greek yogurt or just leave it out entirely.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten it up, I use sugar-free gelatin, light whipped topping, and swap sour cream with low-fat Greek yogurt. It still turns out delicious and refreshing.

Conclusion

Strawberry fluff salad is one of those classic desserts I keep coming back to. It’s quick, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I serve it at a holiday meal or just want a fruity treat for the weekend, it never fails to hit the spot. The creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor makes it feel indulgent while still being light and airy.