Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

Introduction

Looking for a festive and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for holidays and potlucks? Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a classic recipe that’s both sweet and tangy, with a creamy, dreamy finish. This easy-to-make salad combines the vibrant flavor of cranberries with the delightful wobbly texture of Jello, creating a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to disappear quickly. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor and texture that will elevate any meal!

Making the Perfect Cranberry Jello Salad

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. This will streamline the process and prevent any mid-recipe scrambling. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (3 ounce) package cranberry flavored Jell-O gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 (16 ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Cranberry Jello Salad:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O gelatin in the boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
2. Add the cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple (with juice) to the gelatin mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. If desired, stir in the chopped nuts.
4. Pour the mixture into a serving dish or individual molds.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely set.

Crafting the Cream Cheese Topping

The cream cheese topping adds a luscious richness to the salad. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients for the Topping:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions for the Topping:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the topping is light and fluffy.

Serving and Presentation

Once the Jello salad is set, gently spread the cream cheese topping over the top. Garnish with extra nuts or a few fresh cranberries for an elegant touch. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Adjusting the Sweetness

If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese topping or use unsweetened crushed pineapple. You can also add a tablespoon of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.

Adding Fruit

Feel free to add other fruits to the salad, such as mandarin oranges, chopped apples, or grapes. These will add extra flavor and texture.

Dietary Considerations

For a lighter version, use sugar-free Jell-O and reduced-fat cream cheese. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful and versatile dish that’s sure to impress. With its vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and customizable options, it’s the perfect addition to any holiday gathering or potluck. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this classic recipe that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!