This Cranberry Jello Salad With Cream Cheese Topping is a staple at holiday gatherings, and once you try it, you’ll see why! The contrast of sweet and tart flavors, combined with a delightful mix of textures, makes this dish a winner every time. Picture a glistening bowl filled with a vibrantly colored jello salad, its surface decorated with a fluffy cream cheese topping, waiting to make an appearance at your table. If you’re looking to add both flavor and a splash of color to your holiday feast, this salad is the way to go. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s jump into creating this easy, delicious dish that brings smiles and happy memories each time it’s served.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cranberry Jello Salad is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that encapsulates the essence of holiday gatherings. The balance of textures—from the smooth cream cheese topping to the crunchy walnuts—creates a dish that appeals to both the taste buds and the eye, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Jello Salad With Cream Cheese Topping

Not only is this Cranberry Jello Salad With Cream Cheese Topping incredibly easy to prepare, but it also adds a burst of color to your holiday table. Its refreshing taste provides a perfect contrast to richer dishes, leaving your guests raving about your culinary skills long after the meal is over.

Ingredients

1 package (6 oz) raspberry jello
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup diced apple
1 can (14 oz) whole cranberry sauce
1 cup chopped walnuts, divided (or pecans)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Preparing the Jello Salad

Combine Boiling Water with Jello

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of boiling water with the 6 oz package of raspberry jello. Stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes until fully dissolved. This step is crucial for getting that bright color and perfect texture.

Mix in the Cold Water

Once the jello is dissolved, add ½ cup of cold water to the mixture and stir. This helps to cool the jello down, making it ready to absorb all those delicious fruits.

Fold in the Fruits and Nuts

Add 1 can of undrained crushed pineapple, 1 can of drained mandarin oranges, and 1 can of whole cranberry sauce. Reserve 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts and mix the remaining 1 cup into the jello mixture. This not only adds flavor but also gives a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth jello.

Chill Until Set

Pour the prepared mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours until set. The longer you let it chill, the firmer it will be.

Making the Cream Cheese Topping

Whip the Heavy Cream

In a medium mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until fluffy. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar to create sweetened whipped cream. This step makes your topping light and sweet, perfect for balancing the tartness of the jello.

Prepare the Cream Cheese

In a separate bowl, beat 1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese until soft and light. This will create a creamy base that complements the fluffy whipped cream.

Combine the Toppings

Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the softened cream cheese until well combined. It’s important to be gentle here, as you want to keep that airy texture.

Assemble the Salad

Spread the cream cheese topping over the chilled jello salad and sprinkle with the reserved 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts. This adds a nice finishing touch, making your dish look even more inviting.

Final Chill

Refrigerate until ready to serve. Giving it a little more time in the fridge lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cranberry Jello Salad With Cream Cheese Topping alongside your holiday turkey or ham, or as a light refreshing dish at picnics or potlucks. It’s incredibly versatile and fits right into any meal.

Tips for Success

Make sure to prepare the salad at least a few hours in advance to allow it sufficient time to set. This ensures the best texture.
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives.

Variations

Substitute raspberry jello with cranberry or cherry jello for a different flavor profile. Each variation brings a new twist on a classic recipe.
Add shredded coconut or mini marshmallows for an additional layer of sweetness and texture.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the topping may lose its fluffiness over time.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this salad with roasted meats, baked ham, or even alongside a fresh green salad for a vibrant meal. The contrasting tastes and textures create a perfect harmony on the plate.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese and non-dairy whipping cream to make this dish vegan-friendly.

2. How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
You can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance to allow plenty of time for setting in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze Cranberry Jello Salad With Cream Cheese Topping?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the jello and cream cheese topping once thawed.

4. What fruits can I substitute in this recipe?
Fruits such as pears or grapes can be substituted based on availability and taste preferences.

5. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
All the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

This Cranberry Jello Salad With Cream Cheese Topping is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories that ties families and friends together. With its vibrant colors and unique blend of tastes, this dish will surely be the highlight of any meal, evoking nostalgic feelings and creating new traditions. Enjoy the compliments from your guests as they savor each bite!