Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

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Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping: A Festive Delight

Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a timeless dish that graces holiday tables across generations. This vibrant, sweet-tart salad balances the zing of cranberries with the creamy richness of a smooth topping. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebratory gathering, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that doubles as a side dish or dessert.

A Brief History

Jello salads gained popularity in the 1950s and 60s as a creative way to elevate gelatin desserts with fruits, nuts, and creams. Cranberries, a traditional holiday ingredient in the U.S., naturally found their way into these recipes, creating a dish that bridges sweet and savory flavors. The cream cheese topping, a decadent twist, makes this dish a layered beauty and adds a luxurious texture.

Ingredients

For the Cranberry Jello Salad

2 (3 oz) packages of raspberry or cranberry-flavored gelatin

2 cups boiling water

1 cup cold water

1 can (14 oz) whole cranberry sauce

1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

1/2 cup diced celery (optional, for crunch)

1/2 cup sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the Cream Cheese Topping

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping)

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Jello Salad

  1. Dissolve Gelatin: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir thoroughly to ensure no lumps remain.
  2. Add Cold Ingredients: Stir in 1 cup of cold water, the whole cranberry sauce, and the drained pineapple. Mix well until evenly distributed.
  3. Incorporate Add-Ins: Fold in the chopped nuts and diced celery (if using) for texture and crunch. Taste and add sugar if desired for additional sweetness.
  4. Chill: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch dish or a decorative mold. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until the Jello is fully set.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Topping

  1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  3. Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. Once the Jello is set, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the surface. Use a spatula to create a smooth layer.
  2. For a decorative touch, sprinkle additional chopped nuts or fresh cranberries on top.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served directly from the 9×13-inch dish or unmolded for a dramatic presentation. Slice into squares or scoop with a spoon for a rustic approach.

Conclusion: A Dish Loved by All

Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of tradition and flavor. It brings together families and friends, sparking nostalgia with each bite. The sweetness of the Jello contrasts beautifully with the tang of the cranberries and the creaminess of the topping.

Who Loves This Dish?

This recipe is adored by holiday enthusiasts, comfort food lovers, and anyone who enjoys a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Kids are drawn to its vibrant colors and wiggly fun, while adults appreciate its nostalgia and sophistication.

Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply indulging in a treat, this Cranberry Jello Salad is sure to shine as the star of the table!

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