Description: A festive and refreshing Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping, perfect for holidays and special occasions. This layered dessert combines the tangy sweetness of cranberry Jello with the creamy richness of a homemade cream cheese topping. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Cranberry Jello Layer:
- 1 (6 oz) box raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
- Additional chopped nuts or whole cranberries for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Jello. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jello powder in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Make sure there are no granules remaining to ensure a smooth consistency.
Step 2: Add Cranberry Sauce and Pineapple. Add the can of whole berry cranberry sauce and the drained crushed pineapple to the Jello mixture. Stir well to combine, breaking up any large clumps of cranberry sauce to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Incorporate Nuts (Optional). If desired, add the chopped walnuts or pecans. Stir them gently into the mixture. The nuts provide a nice textural contrast to the smooth Jello.
Step 4: Chill the Jello Layer. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch dish or mold. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the Jello is firm and set. It’s important to allow sufficient time for the Jello to fully set to prevent the layers from mixing when the topping is added.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it is smooth and creamy. Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps.
Step 6: Add Sour Cream, Powdered Sugar, and Vanilla. Add the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding a bit more powdered sugar.
Step 7: Fold in Whipped Topping. Gently fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped topping and make the topping less fluffy.
Step 8: Spread Topping over Jello. Once the Jello is fully set, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the top. Ensure that the topping covers the entire surface of the Jello layer.
Step 9: Garnish and Chill. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or whole cranberries, if desired. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the topping to set slightly and the flavors to meld together.
Step 10: Serve. Cut into squares and serve chilled. This dessert is best served cold to maintain its refreshing taste and texture.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a nostalgic favorite that brings a touch of elegance and festive cheer to any gathering. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and the creamy tang of the cream cheese topping creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Its vibrant colors make it a visually appealing dish, while the make-ahead convenience allows you to prepare it in advance, making it stress-free for entertaining. It’s a delightful treat that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a versatile addition to any holiday menu. The simplicity of the recipe ensures that even novice cooks can achieve excellent results, and the customizable nature of the ingredients allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish or dessert at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other holiday meals.
- Pair with roasted turkey, ham, or other savory dishes to balance the richness of the main course.
- Offer alongside other desserts such as pies, cakes, or cookies for a complete dessert spread.
- Serve in individual parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Use sugar-free Jello and reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version.
- Add other fruits like mandarin oranges or grapes for additional flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a smoother topping, blend the cream cheese mixture in a food processor until completely smooth.
- For a boozy twist, add a splash of vodka or cranberry liqueur to the Jello mixture before chilling.
- To prevent the Jello from sticking to the dish, lightly grease it with cooking spray before pouring in the mixture.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition. Its vibrant colors, delightful flavors, and easy preparation make it a timeless classic that continues to grace holiday tables year after year. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a sweet treat to end your meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and creamy cream cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to delight your family and friends with this irresistible Cranberry Jello Salad.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
- Yes, while raspberry or cranberry Jello is traditionally used, you can experiment with other flavors like strawberry or cherry. Just keep in mind that it will alter the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Absolutely! In fact, it’s recommended to make it at least 4 hours in advance to allow the Jello to fully set and the flavors to meld together. You can even make it a day or two ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
- Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
- While you can use fresh cranberries, you will need to cook them down with sugar and water to create a sauce before adding them to the Jello mixture. Canned cranberry sauce is more convenient and provides a consistent sweetness and texture.
- What can I use as a substitute for the nuts?
- If you have nut allergies or simply don’t like nuts, you can omit them altogether or substitute them with other toppings like toasted coconut flakes or crushed pretzels for a bit of salty crunch.
- How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
- When stored properly in an airtight container, Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping can last for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal freshness and flavor.
