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- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced - 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1 cup marshmallow fluff - 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup whipped topping (or Cool Whip) - 1 cup crushed graham crackers (approximately 5 whole graham crackers) - Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional) Fresh strawberries are key for flavor. Look for ripe, red berries. You can use other fruits, but strawberries give this dish its signature taste. Cream cheese needs to be soft. This helps it mix well. Marshmallow fluff adds sweetness and lightness. Use sifted powdered sugar for a smooth mix. Vanilla extract boosts the flavor. Whipped topping helps make it light and fluffy. Crushed graham crackers give a nice crunch. If you want a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese. For a vegan twist, try a vegan cream cheese. You can swap marshmallow fluff with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. If you don’t have graham crackers, use crushed cookies or biscuits. You can also try different fruits like blueberries or peaches for a fun change! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, you need to make the cream cheese mixture. In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Use an electric mixer to beat it until smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key for a creamy texture. Next, add the marshmallow fluff, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients together until they become light and fluffy. Then, gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula. Be careful to keep that airy texture. For the strawberries, start by hulling and slicing them. Place the sliced strawberries in a separate bowl. Add one tablespoon of powdered sugar. Toss them gently to coat. Let the strawberries sit for about 10 minutes. This will help them release their juices and taste sweeter. The sugar draws out the natural flavor, making them extra delicious. Now, it's time to assemble your salad. Grab a large serving bowl or individual cups. Start with a layer of crushed graham crackers at the bottom. Next, add a layer of the cream cheese mixture. Repeat these layers until you use all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of fluff on top. For extra crunch, sprinkle any leftover graham crackers on top. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors blend together. Enjoy your light and refreshing Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad! For a fluffy texture, beat the cream cheese well. Mix it until it is creamy and smooth. This step is key for the right base. When adding the marshmallow fluff, sift the powdered sugar first. This helps avoid lumps. Fold in the whipped topping gently. Use a spatula and be careful not to deflate it. The goal is to keep it light and airy. You can serve this dessert in clear glass bowls. This lets the pretty layers shine through. Individual cups also work great for parties. For a fun twist, layer it in mason jars. Each guest gets their own delicious treat. Serve it chilled to enhance the flavors. It’s perfect for warm days or family gatherings. A fresh mint leaf adds a nice touch on top. It gives color and a pop of flavor. You can also sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top. This adds a crunchy finish. If you want, add a few whole strawberries as decoration. It makes the dish look more inviting. Pro Tips Choose Ripe Strawberries: Select strawberries that are bright red and fragrant for the best flavor and sweetness in your salad. Keep It Light: When folding in the whipped topping, do so gently to maintain the airiness of the mixture, ensuring a fluffy texture. Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste. Presentation Matters: Use clear glass bowls or cups to showcase the beautiful layers of your salad, and garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color. {{image_4}} You can switch up the flavors by adding different fruits. Try blueberries or raspberries for a twist. Peaches or mangoes also work well. Each fruit brings its own sweetness and fun color. Mixing fruits adds variety and makes it more exciting. To make this salad healthier, use low-fat cream cheese. You can swap marshmallow fluff for Greek yogurt. This change still keeps it creamy but lowers the sugar. Use fresh fruit without added sugar to keep it light. To make this dish gluten-free, choose gluten-free graham crackers. They taste just as good and keep the crunch. You can also skip the graham crackers and serve it as a fruit salad. This option is lighter and just as tasty. To store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. This will keep the salad fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors from your fridge. You can also cover the bowl with plastic wrap if you prefer. You can freeze this salad, but it may change in texture. To freeze, place the salad in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Just remember, the whipped topping may not be as fluffy after freezing. In the fridge, your Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad will stay good for about 3 days. If you keep it tightly sealed, it will maintain better quality. If you see any change in smell or texture, it’s best to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. It keeps well in the fridge for up to a day. This gives the flavors time to blend. Just remember to layer it carefully to keep it pretty. Chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving. If you wait longer, it tastes even better. You can use many fruits in this salad. Ripe peaches or blueberries work great. You might even try bananas for a twist. Just make sure the fruits are fresh. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. Each fruit adds a new flavor to the dish. Yes, you can make a vegan version! Use vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream. Replace marshmallow fluff with vegan marshmallow or a homemade version. For sweetness, maple syrup works well. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat! We explored the tasty world of Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad. We covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips. You can enjoy this dish with different fruits or make it healthier. Remember to store leftovers properly for the best taste later. In the end, this salad is flexible and fun for any occasion. Try making it your own and enjoy the sweet flavors in every bite!

Strawberry Shortcake Fluff Salad

A light and fluffy dessert salad featuring fresh strawberries, cream cheese, and whipped topping, layered with crushed graham crackers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup marshmallow fluff
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped topping (or Cool Whip)
  • 1 cup crushed graham crackers (approximately 5 whole graham crackers)
  • to taste Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it achieves a smooth and creamy consistency, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the marshmallow fluff, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream cheese. Continue to mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is light and fluffy.
  • Carefully fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to maintain the lightness of the whipped topping, ensuring everything is well-combined and smooth.
  • In another bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar. Toss them gently and let sit for about 10 minutes. This will help enhance their sweetness and allow for juiciness to release.
  • Once the strawberries have released juices, carefully fold them into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution throughout.
  • To assemble your salad, take a large serving bowl or individual cups. Begin by layering: start with a layer of crushed graham crackers, then add a layer of the strawberry fluff mixture. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of fluff on top.
  • Top with any remaining crushed graham crackers for an extra crunchy texture and an appealing finish.
  • Chill the assembled salad in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully for a delicious treat.

Notes

Serve in clear glass bowls to showcase the layers. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color.
Keyword cream cheese, dessert, fluff, salad, strawberry