Creamy Rhubarb Fluff Delight

Oh, friends—this one’s close to my heart. Whether you’re here because you grew up with rhubarb desserts in your grandma’s kitchen or you’re simply craving something sweet, nostalgic, and oh-so-fluffy, welcome. I’m so thrilled you’re here!

This Creamy Rhubarb Fluff Delight is everything its name promises: dreamy, tart, sweet, pillowy, and packed with fun little surprises in every bite. And if you’re not already subscribed, be sure to sign up to get this and more comforting, whimsical recipes like it sent straight to your inbox.

What Is Rhubarb Fluff?

This dessert is a retro-inspired chilled salad that dances between fruit salad, fluff, and dessert casserole (yep, that’s a thing). It features fresh rhubarb cooked down with sugar and strawberry gelatin, folded into a cloud of whipped topping, mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and a touch of tangy cream cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal cooking, major nostalgia.

A perfect make-ahead treat for potlucks, BBQs, or just keeping in the fridge for snack attacks.

Anything but boring. Every bite gives you a little chew, a little creaminess, and a pop of tart rhubarb.

What Does Rhubarb Fluff Taste Like?

Imagine the tartness of rhubarb softened by silky whipped topping, with strawberry and pineapple giving it a fruity punch. The marshmallows? They turn slightly melty and dreamy. It’s light, luscious, and just sweet enough to be dessert, but not cloying. Total retro magic.

Benefits of This Recipe

Seasonal treat: Rhubarb is best fresh in late spring—make the most of it!

No-bake option: Only the rhubarb gets cooked; the rest is simple stirring.

Kid-friendly & adult-approved.

Great for prepping ahead.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tools You’ll Need

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowl or dish

Ingredient Additions & Swaps

Additions

Toasted coconut for a nutty twist

Chopped strawberries for extra fresh flavor

Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch

Substitutions

No Cool Whip? Use homemade whipped cream stabilized with a little powdered sugar.

Vegan version? Swap to plant-based whipped topping and vegan marshmallows.

How to Make Creamy Rhubarb Fluff Delight

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Rhubarb
   In a saucepan, combine chopped rhubarb and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the rhubarb softens and releases juices—about 10 minutes.
2. Add the Jell-O
   Stir the strawberry gelatin into the warm rhubarb mixture until dissolved. Let it cool completely. You can speed this up in the fridge.
3. Make It Creamy
   In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese with vanilla until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping.
4. Assemble the Fluff
   In a large bowl, combine cooled rhubarb mixture, cream cheese mix, marshmallows, and pineapple. Stir until fully incorporated.
5. Chill
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better!) to allow flavors to meld and marshmallows to soften.
6. Serve & Swoon
   Spoon into dessert bowls, parfait cups, or serve family-style in a glass dish.

What to Serve with Rhubarb Fluff

Fresh berries or strawberry slices

Vanilla cookies or shortbread

Ice-cold lemonade or a berry spritzer

A scoop of vanilla ice cream (because why not?)

Tips for the Best Fluff

Let the rhubarb cool fully before adding to the whipped mixture—this prevents melting.

Drain the pineapple well to avoid a runny fluff.

Gently fold, don’t stir aggressively, to keep the texture light.

Use real vanilla extract for that sweet bakery-style finish.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Not recommended for freezing (the texture gets funky!).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes! In fact, this recipe is best when chilled overnight.

Can I use frozen rhubarb?

Absolutely. Just thaw and drain it before cooking, and reduce the sugar slightly since frozen rhubarb can be a bit waterier.

Is this a salad or a dessert?

It’s both. That’s the beauty of fluff! Serve it as a sweet side or light dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Rhubarb Fluff Delight is an ode to simpler times, sweet moments, and the joy of seasonal desserts. It’s easy, it’s impressive, and it brings smiles to every table it graces.

If you’re loving this recipe, don’t miss my other rhubarb and fruity fluffs—especially Peach Dream Fluff and Strawberry Pretzel Parfaits. Sign up for emails and never miss a dollop of deliciousness.

Share the Fluff Love

Tried it? Loved it? Pin it, share it, or drop a comment. I’d love to see your version—tag me on Pinterest and show me your fluff masterpiece!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – approx. 1 cup)

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 9g
• Carbs: 31g
• Sugars: 26g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g

Enjoy every bite, my friend. And if you find yourself licking the bowl? No judgment—I’ve done it too.

Creamy Rhubarb Fluff Delight

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 minute min

Cook Time 1 minute min

Total Time 1 minute min

Servings 8

Calories 210 kcal

Notes

Toasted coconut, fresh strawberries, or chopped nuts make great additions. For a vegan version, use plant-based whipped topping and vegan marshmallows.