If you love a dish that brings a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy with a nostalgic twist, you’re going to adore this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe. It combines the bright, festive flavors of cranberry and pineapple nestled in vibrant raspberry Jell-O, all topped with a luscious, dreamy cream cheese layer that melts in your mouth. This salad is a brilliant choice for holiday gatherings or any time you want a colorful, refreshing, and incredibly easy-to-make dish that feels both vintage and timeless. Let me take you through every delicious detail!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds its unique sparkle to the overall flavor, texture, and visual appeal of the dish. From the tartness of cranberry sauce to the richness of cream cheese, these essentials work in perfect harmony.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce (1 can, 14 oz): Adds a tart and sweet burst of fresh cranberry flavor with delightful berry texture.
- Crushed pineapple (1 can, 8 oz, undrained): Brings tropical sweetness and juiciness that refreshes and balances the tart cranberries.
- Raspberry or cherry Jell-O (1 box, 6 oz): Provides the colorful, fruity gelatin base that unifies the ingredients with a wiggly fun texture.
- Boiling water (1 cup): Essential for dissolving the Jell-O completely for smooth consistency.
- Cold water (1/2 cup): Helps in setting the Jell-O and maintaining the perfect firmness.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): Offers a crunchy contrast that adds depth and a nutty flavor to the salad.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates the rich and velvety topping that complements the tartness below.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a creamy tang that lightens the cream cheese layer beautifully.
- Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the topping just enough without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the topping with a warm, aromatic note for extra comfort and flavor depth.
How to Make Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe
Step 1: Dissolve and Combine the Jell-O Mixture
Start with a medium-sized bowl where you’ll pour 1 cup of boiling water over your raspberry or cherry Jell-O powder. Stir diligently until every bit of that powder has dissolved into a smooth, fragrant liquid. Next, stir in 1/2 cup cold water, which will help the Jell-O set just right. Now it’s time for the stars of the salad – add the entire can of whole berry cranberry sauce along with the crushed pineapple, including the juice. Stir gently but thoroughly to blend all those sweet and tart flavors into one delicious mixture. If you’re a fan of nuts, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans now for that subtle crunch.
Step 2: Chill Until Firm
Pour your beautiful mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or a colorful Jello mold if you want to add a charming shape. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours. Patiently waiting here is key because it needs enough time to fully set and develop that wonderful firm yet tender texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
Once your Jello base is set and jiggles with delight, it’s time to make the creamy crown. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s as smooth and luscious as you can get it. Then add the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is fluffy, light, and perfectly spreadable. This topping will bring the final touch of richness and balance.
Step 4: Spread and Chill Again
Take a spatula and gently spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the set Jello layer. Be sure to cover every inch for that perfect bite every time. Place the salad back into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes so the topping can chill and firm up slightly before serving.
How to Serve Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnish can elevate this salad from classic to stunning. Consider sprinkling a few extra chopped nuts over the top for added texture and a rustic look. Fresh cranberries or a sprig of mint lend a festive note that’s especially lovely for holiday presentations.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a side dish alongside roasted turkey or glazed ham. Its sweet and tangy profile cuts through richer meats beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser at family meals. It also pairs nicely with simple green salads or light sandwiches if you’re aiming for a lighter spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the salad in individual clear glass cups or vintage dessert bowls so the layers and colors show off their beauty. You can also cut it into fun shapes with cookie cutters once set, making it perfect for holiday parties or kids’ gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe stores wonderfully in the fridge. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for prepping ahead of time to save you stress on the big day.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad since the texture of gelatin and cream cheese can change dramatically with thawing, usually resulting in a watery or grainy consistency. Fresh is best here!
Reheating
This salad is served chilled and should never be heated. Keep it cold until you are ready to enjoy it to preserve its lovely texture and refreshing taste.
FAQs
Can I use different flavors of Jell-O in this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe?
Absolutely! Raspberry and cherry are the classics, but cranberry Jell-O works well too. Each variation offers a subtle shift in flavor, so feel free to choose based on your personal preference or what’s available.
Is it necessary to use nuts in the recipe?
The nuts add a delightful crunch and nuttiness, but they are completely optional. If you or your guests have allergies or preferences against nuts, feel free to leave them out without sacrificing much on flavor.
Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients used in this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty option for gluten-sensitive guests.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
You can prepare this salad up to two days ahead of serving. The flavors actually deepen with a bit of time, making it even more delicious when refrigerated overnight before adding the cream cheese topping and serving.
What can I serve this salad with during holiday meals?
This salad pairs wonderfully with classic holiday mains like roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, or even a vegetarian nut roast. Its sweet-tart profile acts as a palate refresher and adds a colorful contrast on the table.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and joyous about this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe, whether it’s on your holiday table or as a nostalgic treat any time of year. It’s approachable to make, beautifully colorful, and a crowd favorite for good reason. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection too!
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Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic American cranberry jello salad featuring whole berry cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple set in raspberry Jell-O, topped with a creamy, fluffy cream cheese layer. Perfect as a festive side dish or dessert, this retro favorite combines tart and sweet flavors with a luscious texture, ideal for holiday meals and make-ahead entertaining.
Ingredients
Jello Mixture
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple (undrained)
- 1 box (6 oz) raspberry or cherry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Dissolve Jell-O: In a medium bowl, pour 1 cup of boiling water over the raspberry or cherry Jell-O powder and stir thoroughly until completely dissolved to ensure a smooth base.
- Add liquids and fruit: Stir in 1/2 cup of cold water, then mix in the entire can of cranberry sauce and the undrained can of crushed pineapple. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Add nuts (optional): If desired, gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to add texture and flavor.
- Set the Jello: Pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or Jello mold. Refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours, or until fully set and firm.
- Prepare cream cheese topping: While the Jello sets, beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then continue beating until the topping is light and fluffy.
- Top and chill: Once the Jello is firm, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface. Return to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 30 minutes to allow the topping to set.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled as a festive side dish or dessert.
Notes
- Substitute the raspberry Jell-O with cherry or cranberry flavored Jell-O for a different taste profile.
- For a smoother texture, blend the cranberry sauce and pineapple before mixing with the Jell-O liquid.
- This salad works well as a make-ahead dish for holiday meals, keeping well refrigerated for a day.
- The nuts are optional and can be omitted for a nut-free version or replaced with your favorite chopped nuts.
