Description of this recipe
This vibrant and festive Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of Jello with the tartness of cranberry and the creamy richness of a delicious topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or potlucks, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this Cranberry Jello Salad not only for its beautiful presentation but also for its delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The refreshing tartness of the cranberry and pineapple layers is perfectly complemented by the smooth and creamy cream cheese topping. It’s a nostalgic dish that brings back fond memories of holiday celebrations, and it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities with your loved ones.
Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, the search for the perfect side dishes begins. One dish that often graces the table is the beloved Cranberry Jello Salad. This recipe stands out with its vibrant colors and delightful combination of flavors. It’s not just a salad; it’s a dessert-like side that can brighten up any holiday spread. With layers of sweet and tart flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple at your holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or attending a potluck, this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a showstopper that everyone will adore.
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
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, pour the boiling water over the Jello powder. Stir vigorously until the Jello is completely dissolved, ensuring there are no granules left.
Step 2: Once dissolved, add the whole cranberry sauce and the drained crushed pineapple to the Jello mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, making sure the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. If you’re using walnuts, fold them in at this stage for added crunch.
Step 3: Pour the Jello mixture into a 9×13-inch dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the Jello is fully set, which will take about 4 hours or can be left overnight for best results.
Step 4: While the Jello is setting, prepare the cream cheese topping. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Continue to beat the mixture until it is well combined and fluffy. Once the Jello layer has set, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the top of the Jello.
Step 6: Return the dish to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 1 hour before serving. This will help the cream cheese topping firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
COOKING Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels. The flavors are well-balanced, and the dish is visually appealing, earning it a perfect rating!
Serving Suggestions:
This Cranberry Jello Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of holiday dishes. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a festive charcuterie board. It also makes an excellent addition to brunch spreads, providing a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. For an extra touch, garnish the salad with fresh mint leaves or additional chopped walnuts before serving.
Tips:
- For a more intense flavor, consider using cranberry juice instead of water to dissolve the Jello.
- If you prefer a sweeter topping, feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture to suit your taste.
- Make this dish a day in advance to save time on the day of your event. The flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit overnight.
- To create individual servings, you can layer the Jello and cream cheese mixture in small cups or jars for a fun presentation.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (chilling time only)
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):
Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
The Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors are sure to impress your guests and leave them reminiscing about the good times spent together. With its simple preparation and stunning presentation, this recipe is bound to become a cherished addition to your holiday traditions.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use different flavors of Jello?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of Jello! Raspberry, cherry, or even orange can work well, but keep in mind that the overall flavor profile will change slightly. - Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure that both the Jello layer and cream cheese topping are well chilled before serving. - Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds, or you can omit the nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free version. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover the dish to maintain freshness. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients listed do not contain gluten. Just double-check the labels of your Jello and other ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary.
