Description
The Cranberry Bliss Cream Bars embody the joyous spirit of holiday desserts, merging the vibrant zest of cranberries with the creamy, rich texture of dairy to create a delightful treat. Ideal for festive gatherings or as a sweet finish to your holiday meals, these bars bring together the contrasting flavors of sweet and tart in a delightful harmony, ensuring every bite is a celebration of taste.
Ingredients
- 2 (3-ounce) packages of cherry Jell-O (raspberry or cranberry can be substituted)
- 1 1/2 cups of boiling water
- 20 ounces of crushed pineapple (juice included)
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole cranberry sauce (or 2 cups of homemade cranberry sauce)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
- 3/4 cup cranberry or apple juice
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Jello Base
Add both packets of Jell-O to the boiling water in a large bowl, stirring until completely dissolved.
Step 2: Mix Additional Ingredients
Stir in the crushed pineapple (juice and all) along with the whole cranberry sauce, using the back of the spoon to break up chunks. Add ¾ cup of chopped pecans and the cranberry or apple juice, then stir to combine.
Step 3: Set the Jello
Carefully pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish or jello mold. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Layer
In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the sour cream until well combined.
Step 5: Add the Cream Layer
Spread the cream mixture evenly over the set jello layer and sprinkle with the remaining chopped pecans. Return to the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes.
Servings & Preparation Time
- Servings: Approximately 12-15 bars
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes setting and chilling time)
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
- These bars are best served cold and do not require reheating.
- If layers begin to separate, simply smooth over with a spatula to reintegrate the cream and jello.
Conclusion
Cranberry Bliss Cream Bars offer a perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, and tangy elements, making them a standout dessert for the holiday season. The ease of preparation coupled with their striking appearance and delicious taste ensures they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any festive occasion.
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Cranberry Bliss Cream Bars
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12-15 bars 1x
Description
The Cranberry Bliss Cream Bars embody the joyous spirit of holiday desserts, merging the vibrant zest of cranberries with the creamy, rich texture of dairy to create a delightful treat. Ideal for festive gatherings or as a sweet finish to your holiday meals, these bars bring together the contrasting flavors of sweet and tart in a delightful harmony, ensuring every bite is a celebration of taste.
Ingredients
- 2 (3-ounce) packages of cherry Jell-O (raspberry or cranberry can be substituted)
- 1 1/2 cups of boiling water
- 20 ounces of crushed pineapple (juice included)
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole cranberry sauce (or 2 cups of homemade cranberry sauce)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
- 3/4 cup cranberry or apple juice
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Jello Base Add both packets of Jell-O to the boiling water in a large bowl, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Step 2: Mix Additional Ingredients Stir in the crushed pineapple (juice and all) along with the whole cranberry sauce, using the back of the spoon to break up chunks. Add ¾ cup of chopped pecans and the cranberry or apple juice, then stir to combine.
- Step 3: Set the Jello Carefully pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish or jello mold. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
- Step 4: Prepare the Cream Layer In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the sour cream until well combined.
- Step 5: Add the Cream Layer Spread the cream mixture evenly over the set jello layer and sprinkle with the remaining chopped pecans. Return to the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes