Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert that effortlessly combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Whether served at a holiday feast, potluck, or family dinner, this layered dish stands out with its vibrant cranberry layer and luscious cream cheese topping. Its blend of fruit, nuts, and creamy goodness makes it a timeless recipe for all occasions.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delightful treat, share tips for success, and provide helpful storage and nutritional insights. Let’s dive in and discover why Cranberry Jello Salad deserves a spot on your table!
Why We Love This Recipe
- Vibrant Presentation
The striking red hue of the cranberry Jello paired with the creamy, snow-white topping makes this dish a visual centerpiece for any occasion. Its festive colors make it perfect for holidays, but it’s just as welcome at casual gatherings. - Perfect Flavor Balance
This recipe masterfully blends the tartness of cranberry sauce, the sweetness of Jello, and the creaminess of the topping. The optional walnuts add a delightful crunch that takes the texture to the next level. - Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Even if you’re short on time, you can create a stunning and delicious dessert with minimal effort. - Customizable Options
The recipe is versatile—you can switch up the Jello flavor, add different fruits, or even make it nut-free. It’s easily adaptable to suit your preferences or dietary needs. - Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual summer barbecue, this dish shines as a refreshing side, dessert, or centerpiece. Its universal appeal ensures everyone at the table will love it. - Make-Ahead Friendly
Because it can be prepared in advance, it’s perfect for busy hosts. You can focus on other aspects of your meal while this dessert chills and sets in the fridge.
This recipe is truly a gem for those who love flavorful, easy-to-make dishes that impress both the eyes and the taste buds!
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Jello Layer:
- 1 (6 oz) box raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (14 oz) can whole cranberry sauce
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Jello Layer
- Dissolve the Jello powder in 2 cups of boiling water in a large mixing bowl. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Add the whole cranberry sauce to the Jello mixture and stir until well combined.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple and, if using, chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish or serving bowl.
- Refrigerate the Jello layer for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until well blended and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled and set cranberry Jello layer.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish the dish with additional chopped nuts or fresh cranberries for extra flair (optional).
- Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing layers of flavor!
Success Tips
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the topping.
- Drain the Pineapple Thoroughly: Excess liquid from the pineapple can prevent the Jello from setting properly.
- Chill Completely: Allow the Jello layer to set fully before spreading the topping to avoid mixing the layers.
- Customize to Taste: Experiment with different Jello flavors, such as strawberry or cherry, to suit your preference.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the Cranberry Jello Salad in an airtight container or cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Do Not Freeze: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the Jello and cream cheese topping may change upon thawing.
Notes
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this salad with roasted turkey, ham, or as a standalone dessert.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the Jello layer a day in advance and add the cream cheese topping just before serving for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 80mg
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
FAQs
1. Can I use sugar-free Jello for this recipe?
Yes! Sugar-free Jello works just as well and is an excellent option for those watching their sugar intake.
2. What can I use instead of sour cream in the topping?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, adding a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the Jello layer a day in advance and add the cream cheese topping the next day for a stress-free serving experience.
4. Can I add other fruits to the Jello layer?
Yes! Diced apples, fresh cranberries, or mandarin oranges are great additions to the Jello layer for extra flavor and texture.
5. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
This dish is vegetarian-friendly if your Jello brand uses plant-based gelatin substitutes. Check the package label to confirm.
Conclusion
Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress your guests. Its beautiful layers, ease of preparation, and customizable ingredients make it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for the holidays or a refreshing treat to elevate your family dinner, this recipe is a must-try.
Give it a try, and watch as this vibrant, creamy dessert becomes a new favorite in your recipe collection!