Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a nostalgic yet utterly delightful dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and creamy textures, this Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe is the answer. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a hint of tangy cream cheese that turns a classic jello salad into something truly special. Whether you’re bringing it to a holiday gathering or adding a splash of color to your everyday table, this recipe feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are surprisingly simple but each plays a key role in building that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the bright raspberry Jell-O that provides the base color and fruity essence, to the creamy richness of the cream cheese topping, every component is essential to create this show-stopping dish.

• 2 3 oz raspberry JELL-O: This gives the salad its signature fruity and tangy flavor plus that eye-catching red color.
• 1 cup boiling water: Needed to dissolve the Jell-O perfectly and activate its setting properties.
• 1/2 cup cold water: Helps cool down the Jell-O so it’s ready for mixing with the fruit without melting the gelatin.
• 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple: Adds a juicy sweetness and tropical twist that brightens the salad.
• 1 14 oz can whole berry cranberry sauce: Brings in a tart balance and keeps the texture interesting with whole berries.
• 1 8 oz cream cheese: The star of the topping, lending creamy richness and a velvety mouthfeel.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer just enough to complement the tart fruit flavors.
• 16 oz Cool Whip: Lightens the cream cheese mixture, giving it whipped, fluffy texture that feels like a cloud on your tongue.

How to Make Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe

Step 1: Dissolve the Jello

Start by placing the raspberry JELL-O packets into a large bowl. Pour in the boiling water and whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Then add the cold water and whisk again. This is the foundation of your salad, so make sure it’s smooth and well combined to get that perfect jiggly texture.

Step 2: Mix in the Fruit

Next, stir in the entire can of crushed pineapple, juice and all. Follow this with the whole berry cranberry sauce. Using the whole sauce adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture with those whole cranberries. Stir everything gently but thoroughly so that all the fruity goodness is evenly distributed without breaking up the berries too much.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly spray a 9 x 9-inch or 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your jello salad will release easily once set and you won’t have any sticky surprises when serving.

Step 4: Chill the Jello Mixture

Carefully pour your jello and fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Give it at least 5 to 6 hours to set completely. This waiting period is key to achieving that firm yet tender texture everyone loves in a classic jello salad.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping

Once your jello is set, it’s time to make the luscious cream cheese layer. Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together for 3 to 4 minutes until creamy and smooth. This step is crucial for a velvety topping, so don’t rush it!

Step 6: Add the Cool Whip

Fold in the Cool Whip carefully. If the mixture looks a bit lumpy, simply microwave it for 10 seconds and whisk until smooth again. This whipped topping adds the perfect lightness to balance the denser cream cheese and the fruit-filled jello underneath.

Step 7: Assemble the Salad

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the set jello base. Place the dish back in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve. This last chill helps everything meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes doesn’t just elevate the look but also introduces fresh flavor contrasts. Try topping your salad with a few fresh raspberries or cranberries for an inviting pop of color and added freshness. A small sprig of mint also brightens the presentation and complements the fruit flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe pairs wonderfully with richer main dishes, especially holiday roasts or savory casseroles. Its sweet-tart profile and creamy texture act as a refreshing counterpoint, cleansing the palate wonderfully between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique twist, try layering this salad in a clear trifle dish or glass cups to showcase the beautiful colors and textures. Alternatively, serve it as individual portions in pretty crystal bowls with a dollop of extra whipped topping for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen even more. Just be sure to cover it tightly to avoid it absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

Freezing this salad isn’t recommended because the jello and cream cheese topping can separate and become watery upon thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within a few days.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled salad, reheating is not necessary and would actually compromise its texture. It’s best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge for that perfect refreshing bite every time.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of Jello for this salad?

Absolutely! While raspberry adds a wonderful tartness that complements the cranberries nicely, you can try strawberry or cherry Jello to mix things up. Just keep in mind the flavor profile you’ll be blending with the cranberry sauce and pineapple.

Is there a way to make this dessert less sweet?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar in the cream cheese topping a bit or opt for a sugar-free Jello mix. Using fresh pineapple instead of canned can also tone down sweetness while adding natural fruit flavor.

Can I prepare this salad without Cool Whip?

You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream or even Greek yogurt for a tangier twist. The texture might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How do I soften cream cheese quickly?

The easiest way is to let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’re short on time, microwave it in short bursts of 10 seconds and stir until soft but not melted.

Is this salad suitable for holiday dinners?

Absolutely! This Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe is a classic that shines during holidays. Its festive color and balanced flavors make it a crowd-pleaser year after year.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and joyful about a well-made Raspberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese and Cranberries Recipe. It combines simple ingredients to create a dish that’s vibrant, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family celebration or just because you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic, it’s sure to bring smiles to the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dessert!

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