Print

Cranberry Jello Salad: A Festive Delight for Every Occasion

A nostalgic holiday jello salad with layers of ruby-red cranberry gelatin, crushed pineapple, and a creamy topping studded with walnuts. The perfect balance of sweet and tart!

  • Author: ranime
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 mins
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish/Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • Jello Layer:
  • 2 (3 oz) packages cranberry-flavored gelatin
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 (14 oz) can whole-berry cranberry sauce
  • 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • Creamy Layer:
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • Garnish:
  • Fresh cranberries
  • Mint leaves

Instructions

  1. Jello Layer: Dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Stir in cranberry sauce until smooth. Fold in pineapple with juices. Pour into 9×13″ dish. Chill 4 hours until set.
  2. Creamy Layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla; mix well. Spread over chilled gelatin layer.
  3. Top: Sprinkle with nuts. Cover and chill at least 2 hours more.
  4. Serve: Cut into squares. Garnish with fresh cranberries and mint.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance (add nuts before serving)
  • Texture tip: For firmer salad, use 1 cup cold water + 1 cup ice cubes when dissolving gelatin
  • Variations: Substitute orange gelatin or add 1/2 cup mandarin oranges
  • Lighter option: Use Neufchâtel cheese and light sour cream

Nutrition