Cherry 7-Up Fluff Recipe

Introduction

Cherry 7-Up Fluff is a light, fruity dessert that’s both refreshing and creamy. Combining marshmallows, cherries, and a fizzy soda, this no-bake treat is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

Ingredients

• 15 regular-sized marshmallows (not mini marshmallows)
• 12 ounce can cherry 7-Up soda
• 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened
• 3 ounce box cherry gelatin mix (JELL-O) (smaller box)
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 16 ounce jar halved maraschino cherries, drained
• 22 ounce can mandarin oranges, drained
• 3 bananas, sliced (slice right before stirring in)
• 8 ounce tub whipped topping (COOL WHIP), thawed

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine marshmallows and cherry 7-Up soda. Whisk frequently until marshmallows are fully melted. Remove from heat.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine softened cream cheese, cherry gelatin mix, and fresh lime juice until smooth.
3. Step 3: Slowly stir the melted marshmallow and 7-Up mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
4. Step 4: Gently fold in the drained maraschino cherries, drained mandarin oranges, and freshly sliced bananas (slice bananas just before adding to prevent browning).
5. Step 5: Carefully stir in the thawed whipped topping, taking care not to overmix and break up the fruit pieces.
6. Step 6: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld and the fluff set.
7. Step 7: Optional: Garnish individual servings with a lime twist and a maraschino cherry for an extra festive touch.

Tips & Variations

• Slice bananas right before mixing to keep them from turning brown and maintain fresh flavor.
• For a tangier twist, substitute lime juice with lemon juice or add extra zest.
• Try swapping maraschino cherries for fresh or frozen cherries if you prefer less sweetness.

Storage

Store the Cherry 7-Up Fluff covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness. Stir gently before serving if any separation occurs. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and should not be frozen as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best to prepare the fluff at least 4 hours ahead and refrigerate to allow it to set properly. Making it the day before serving works well.

What can I use instead of cherry 7-Up?

You can replace cherry 7-Up with regular 7-Up or lemon-lime soda, but keep in mind the cherry flavor will be less pronounced. Adding a little cherry juice or flavoring can help maintain the taste.

Cherry 7-Up Fluff Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 112 reviews

Cherry 7-Up Fluff is a refreshing, sweet, and creamy dessert salad featuring melted marshmallows mixed with cherry-flavored soda, cream cheese, cherry gelatin, and a medley of fresh and canned fruits. This light and fluffy treat is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a nostalgic, fruity dessert with a zing of lime.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Marshmallow Mixture

• 15 regular-sized marshmallows (not mini marshmallows)
• 12 ounce can cherry 7-Up soda

Cream Cheese Mixture

• 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened
• 3 ounce box cherry gelatin mix (JELL-O), smaller box
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice

Fruit and Topping

• 16 ounce jar halved maraschino cherries, drained
• 22 ounce can mandarin oranges, drained
• 3 bananas, sliced (slice just before stirring in)
• 8 ounce tub whipped topping (COOL WHIP), thawed

Instructions

1. Melt Marshmallows with Cherry 7-Up: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the 15 regular-sized marshmallows and the entire 12-ounce can of cherry 7-Up soda. Whisk frequently as the mixture heats to ensure the marshmallows melt completely and integrate smoothly with the soda. Once fully melted, remove the pan from heat.
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Gelatin: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the softened 8-ounce block of cream cheese, 3-ounce cherry gelatin mix, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
3. Combine Marshmallow Mixture with Cream Cheese Mixture: Slowly pour the warm marshmallow and 7-Up mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Stir gently yet thoroughly to combine the two blends evenly.
4. Add Fruit: Stir in the drained 16-ounce jar of halved maraschino cherries, the drained 22-ounce can of mandarin oranges, and the 3 bananas sliced just before adding to prevent browning. Handle the fruit gently to keep pieces whole.
5. Fold in Whipped Topping: Finally, gently fold the 8-ounce thawed tub of whipped topping into the mixture. Avoid over-stirring as it may break up the mandarin oranges excessively; the goal is to keep visible whole fruit pieces.
6. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the fluff dessert for at least 4 hours to allow it to set and flavors to meld.
7. Optional Garnish and Serve: Prior to serving, garnish individual servings with a lime twist and a maraschino cherry for an attractive presentation.

Notes

• Slice bananas immediately before mixing to avoid browning.
• Do not over-stir after adding the fruit to preserve whole pieces and texture.
• Chilling time is essential for the fluff to set properly and develop flavor.
• This dessert is best served cold and fresh.
• Use a smaller 3-ounce box of cherry gelatin for perfect balance.

Keywords: Cherry 7-Up Fluff, cherry gelatin dessert, marshmallow salad, fruit fluff salad, creamy fruit dessert, JELL-O fluff, whipped topping dessert