Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping: A Holiday Favorite
This Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that brings sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors to your table. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings, this vibrant salad combines fruity Jello with a luscious cream cheese layer. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a must-have for festive occasions!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Jello Salad
- Sweet & Tangy: The combination of cranberry and pineapple with creamy topping is irresistible.
- Festive Appeal: Bright colors and flavors make it a holiday table standout.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and minimal steps for a stress-free recipe.
- Customizable: Add nuts, fruit, or zest to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance for gatherings.
Ingredients for Cranberry Jello Salad
For the Jello Layer:
- 1 (6 oz) package raspberry or cherry Jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery or apple (optional, for texture)
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream or whipped topping
- 2–3 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped nuts, orange zest, or fresh cranberries for a festive touch
How to Make Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping
Step 1: Prepare the Jello Base
- In a large bowl, dissolve the 6 oz package of raspberry or cherry Jello in 2 cups boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Stir in the whole berry cranberry sauce, breaking it up until it blends smoothly into the Jello mixture.
- Add the crushed pineapple and optional nuts or celery/apples, if desired, for extra texture.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a decorative mold. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Topping
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sour cream (or whipped topping), powdered sugar, and vanilla extract (if using). Beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the chilled, set Jello layer.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts, orange zest, or fresh cranberries for a beautiful presentation.
- Slice or scoop and serve chilled. Enjoy the sweet-tangy-creamy goodness!
Variations to Try
- Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar-free Jello, sugar-free cranberry sauce (or homemade reduced-sugar version), and a sugar substitute like stevia in the topping.
- Layered Version: Double the Jello mixture and create alternating layers of Jello and cream cheese topping for a stunning visual effect. Chill each layer before adding the next.
- Fruit Swap: Replace pineapple with mandarin oranges or diced pears for a different flavor profile.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts or use granola for crunch without allergens.
- Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the Jello or topping for a tropical vibe.
Tips for Success
- Drain Pineapple Well: Excess liquid can prevent the Jello from setting properly.
- Chill Completely: Ensure the Jello layer is fully set before adding the topping to avoid mixing.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the Jello layer a day in advance and add the topping before serving for best results.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the Jello and cream cheese may lose their texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Feast: Serve alongside turkey, ham, or other festive mains for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Potluck Star: Bring to gatherings in a decorative dish for a crowd-pleasing side or dessert.
- Kid-Friendly Treat: Pair with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a fun, family-friendly dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful mix of nostalgic charm and vibrant flavors. Its versatility, make-ahead convenience, and eye-catching presentation make it a go-to for any celebration. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, this dish is sure to win hearts at your next gathering!
Love this recipe? Pin it to your holiday recipe board, share it with friends, or let us know how it turned out in the comments below! For more festive dishes, explore our other recipes or subscribe for weekly inspiration. Happy cooking!
