Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping: A Festive Delight

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping, a beloved dish that brings a burst of flavor and festivity to any gathering. This colorful salad is perfect for holiday tables, combining the tartness of cranberries with the smooth richness of cream cheese, creating a harmonious blend that is both visually and gastronomically delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a showstopper at any event. It’s a dish that seamlessly blends sweet and tangy flavors, making it a perennial favorite for parties and festive meals. Not only does it look stunning with its vibrant colors, but its refreshing taste also provides a delightful contrast to heavier dishes. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this salad is easy to prepare and will surely impress your guests.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a dessert, its unique combination of ingredients ensures it stands out on the dinner table.

Context/Background

Cranberry Jello Salad is a classic American dish that has been cherished for generations. First becoming popular in the mid-20th century, it has remained a staple in many households where tradition meets simplicity. The technique of combining gelatin with fresh ingredients has been a hallmark of Southern cuisine, providing a nostalgic nod to an era where convenience met home-cooked charm.

The creamy topping adds a luxurious texture, reminiscent of old-fashioned cheesecake recipes, which complements the tartness of the cranberries. This dish beautifully captures the essence of holiday cooking: a blend of history, flavor, and festivity.

Recipe Details

Serves: 8

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours (refrigeration)

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 package (6 oz) raspberry or cranberry flavored Jello powder
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Dissolve the Jello powder in boiling water in a large mixing bowl. Stir continuously until fully dissolved.
2. Add the crushed pineapple with its juice, chopped cranberries, sugar, and nuts. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch pyrex dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
4. While the Jello is setting, prepare the cream cheese topping. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.
5. Once the Jello is set, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

• Ensure the Jello is completely set before adding the cream cheese topping for a perfect layer.
• Use freshly chopped cranberries for the best flavor; frozen ones tend to add extra moisture.
• Customize by adding diced apples or mandarin oranges for additional flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cranberry Jello Salad alongside roasted turkey or ham for a festive flair. It’s also delightful as a standalone dessert, garnished with a sprig of mint or additional chopped nuts.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish is best consumed fresh, as the texture may change slightly after prolonged storage.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a timeless recipe that is sure to create lasting memories. Its vibrant colors and harmonious flavors make it an essential for your holiday feast. Try it once, and it will become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

Recipe Notes

• Substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred, or skip them altogether for a nut-free option.
• For extra flair, add a dash of lime or lemon zest into the cream cheese topping.