Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

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Cranberry Jello Salad topped with Cream Cheese, displayed on a festive table setting.
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Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful and colorful dish that brings a touch of sweetness and tanginess to any meal. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any time you want to add a bit of fun to the table. This dish combines the rich flavors of cranberry and pineapple with a smooth and creamy topping, making it a crowd favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking skills. The vibrant colors and flavors make it visually appealing and delicious. It also lends itself well to make-ahead planning, which is perfect for busy holidays. Plus, the refreshing taste is sure to please both kids and adults alike!

How to Make Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

Ingredients:

  • 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)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jello in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
  2. Add the cranberry sauce and drained pineapple to the Jello mixture, stirring well. Mix in walnuts if you desire.
  3. Pour the Jello mixture into a 9×13-inch dish and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.
  4. For the cream cheese topping, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract; beat until creamy and well-blended.
  5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the set Jello layer.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy this festive, tangy treat, perfect for the holidays!

How to Serve Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

Serve the Cranberry Jello Salad cold, directly from the refrigerator. You can cut it into squares or scoop it with a spoon. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or a few fresh cranberries on top. This dish is great as a side or a dessert!

How to Store Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

Keep any leftovers of the Cranberry Jello Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to keep the cream cheese topping intact to preserve the flavor and texture.

Tips to Make Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

  • Make sure to dissolve the Jello completely in boiling water for the best texture.
  • You can prepare the Jello salad a day ahead to save time.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, avoid using walnuts or chop them finely before adding.
  • For a fun twist, try using different fruit-flavored Jello that complements cranberries.

Variation

You can customize this dish by adding different fruits, like diced apples or pears, for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
A: Yes! While raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jello is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors like cherry or strawberry.

Q: How long does this dish take to prepare?
A: The preparation time is about 20 minutes, but remember to allow time for the Jello to set, which takes at least 4 hours or overnight.

Q: Can I freeze Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.

Enjoy making and sharing this lovely Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping with your friends and family!

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Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 240 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A delightful and colorful dish combining cranberry and pineapple flavors with a smooth cream cheese topping, perfect for holidays and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jello in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
  2. Add the cranberry sauce and drained pineapple to the Jello mixture, stirring well. Mix in walnuts if you desire.
  3. Pour the Jello mixture into a 9×13-inch dish and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.
  4. For the cream cheese topping, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract; beat until creamy and well-blended.
  5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the set Jello layer.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Serve chilled and consider garnishing with chopped walnuts or fresh cranberries. Can be made a day ahead for convenience.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Refrigeration
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Cranberry, Jello, Salad, Dessert, Holiday, Cream Cheese, Pineapple

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