Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a classic, nostalgic dish that brings a touch of sweetness and elegance to any holiday table. With its vibrant red base filled with cranberry sauce and pineapple, and topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese layer, this chilled salad is the perfect blend of fruity and creamy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Jello salad is a festive favorite that’s easy to prepare ahead of time and requires no baking. The bright flavors of cranberry and pineapple are perfectly balanced by the richness of the cream cheese topping, creating a layered dessert or side dish that stands out in both taste and presentation. It’s a guaranteed hit at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any potluck.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cranberry Jello Layer:
-
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
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
1/4 cup powdered sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
directions
-
In a large bowl, dissolve the Jello in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
-
Add the cranberry sauce and mix well until it breaks down and is evenly combined with the gelatin.
-
Stir in the drained crushed pineapple.
-
Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a serving bowl.
-
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
-
Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese topping. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
-
Add the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until creamy and well combined.
-
Once the Jello layer is fully set, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
-
Chill for another 30 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10–12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 4.5 hours
Total time: 4 hours 45 minutes
Variations
-
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
-
Fresh Twist: Use freshly made cranberry sauce in place of canned for a more natural flavor.
-
Layered Mold: Pour into a gelatin mold for a more decorative presentation.
-
Citrus Zest: Add orange zest to the cream cheese topping for a bright, citrusy note.
-
Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free Jello and a light cream cheese alternative for a lower-calorie version.
storage/reheating
Store the assembled salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as the texture of the gelatin and cream cheese will be affected. Always serve chilled. This dish is not intended to be reheated.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it’s an ideal make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day in advance and chill overnight.
Is it okay to use jellied cranberry sauce?
Whole cranberry sauce is preferred for texture, but jellied can be used if desired. Just mash it well to incorporate.
What if my cream cheese topping is lumpy?
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing and beat it thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can prevent Jello from setting properly. Use canned and well-drained pineapple instead.
Is this a dessert or a side dish?
Traditionally, it can be served as either—a sweet side during holiday meals or a light, fruity dessert.
Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
Yes, raspberry or cranberry are ideal, but cherry or strawberry can also complement the other ingredients nicely.
Can I make it in individual servings?
Yes, layer the ingredients in small cups or ramekins for a personalized and portable option.
How long does it take for the Jello to set?
Typically 4 hours in the refrigerator. Ensure it’s firm before adding the topping.
Can I skip the cream cheese topping?
Yes, though it adds a nice contrast. You can top with whipped cream or leave it plain if preferred.
Does this dish travel well?
Yes, just cover tightly with plastic wrap and keep it chilled during transport.
Conclusion
Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that adds charm and flavor to any meal. Whether served as a side dish or dessert, its combination of fruity brightness and creamy topping makes it a timeless favorite at family gatherings and festive celebrations. Enjoy this classic with your loved ones and watch it become a new tradition.
Print
Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a classic holiday side dish that doubles as a light dessert. Packed with sweet-tart cranberry, juicy pineapple, and topped with a luscious cream cheese layer, it’s a colorful and crowd-pleasing addition to any festive table. Keyword: Cranberry Jello Salad
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Jello Layer:
-
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
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup sour cream
-
1/4 cup powdered sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Prepare the Jello layer:
In a large bowl, dissolve Jello in boiling water. Stir in cranberry sauce and drained crushed pineapple until well mixed. -
Chill the Jello:
Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or glass serving bowl. Refrigerate until fully set, about 4 hours or overnight. -
Make the topping:
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and well blended. -
Top the Jello:
Once the Jello is fully set, gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the top. -
Chill again for at least 30 minutes before serving. Slice or scoop and serve chilled.
Notes
-
For extra crunch, fold chopped walnuts or pecans into the Jello mixture.
-
Use a hand mixer for the topping to ensure it’s silky smooth.
-
Great make-ahead option for Thanksgiving or Christmas!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Chilling