Description
The “Cranberry Delight Jello Salad with Creamy Topping” recipe is a festive and delightful dessert that is perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions. It combines the tangy flavors of cranberry and pineapple with the decadence of a creamy topping made of cream cheese and sour cream. This treat not only looks appealing with its colorful layer but also offers a refreshing taste that complements any festive meal.
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Jello:
- 2 (3-ounce) packages cherry Jell-O (alternatively raspberry or cranberry)
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole cranberry sauce (or 2 cups homemade cranberry sauce)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
- 3/4 cup cranberry or apple juice
For the Topping:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Jello
Add both packets of Jell-O to the boiling water in a large bowl, stirring until completely dissolved.
2. Mix in Additional Ingredients
Stir in the crushed pineapple (juice and all) and whole cranberry sauce, breaking up any chunks of cranberry sauce against the side of the bowl using the back of the spoon.
3. Add Nuts and Juice
Mix in ¾ cup of chopped pecans and the cranberry or apple juice.
4. Refrigerate
Carefully pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish or Jello mold. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
5. Prepare the Topping
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on high speed until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar and sour cream until thoroughly combined.
6. Complete Assembly
Spread the topping mixture over the set Jell-O and sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup of chopped pecans.
Servings & Preparation Time
Servings: Approximately 12 servings.
Preparation Time: About 15 minutes (excluding refrigeration time).
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the Jello salad in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To maintain the best texture and flavor, enjoy the Jello salad chilled directly from the refrigerator.
- The dessert is not suitable for freezing as the texture of the Jell-O and creamy topping may be adversely affected.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Delight Jello Salad with Creamy Topping is a visually appealing and mouth-watering dessert that is perfect for enhancing the festive cheer of any holiday table. Its combination of tart fruits and sweet creamy topping will surely be a hit among guests seeking a unique and refreshing dessert. Enjoy crafting this easy-to-make recipe that promises a delightful taste experience.
PrintCranberry Delight Jello Salad with Creamy Topping
- Total Time: 30 minute
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings. 1x
Description
The “Cranberry Delight Jello Salad with Creamy Topping” recipe is a festive and delightful dessert that is perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions. It combines the tangy flavors of cranberry and pineapple with the decadence of a creamy topping made of cream cheese and sour cream. This treat not only looks appealing with its colorful layer but also offers a refreshing taste that complements any festive meal.
Ingredients
- 2 (3-ounce) packages cherry Jell-O (alternatively raspberry or cranberry)
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole cranberry sauce (or 2 cups 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
- Prepare the Jello: Add both packets of Jell-O to the boiling water in a large bowl, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Mix in Additional Ingredients: Stir in the crushed pineapple (juice and all) and whole cranberry sauce, breaking up any chunks of cranberry sauce against the side of the bowl using the back of the spoon.
- Add Nuts and Juice: Mix in ¾ cup of chopped pecans and the cranberry or apple juice.
- Refrigerate: Carefully pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish or Jello mold. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on high speed until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar and sour cream until thoroughly combined.
- Complete Assembly: Spread the topping mixture over the set Jell-O and sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup of chopped pecans.
- Prep Time: About 15 minutes (excluding refrigeration time)