Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe
If you’re searching for a show-stopping holiday dish that’s equal parts nostalgic and irresistible, look no further than Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping. The jewel-bright Jello, bursting with cranberry and pineapple, is crowned by a dreamy layer of sweet, fluffy cream cheese. It’s a beloved classic that bridges the gap between dessert and side dish, and every spoonful is a sweet-tart, creamy delight that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one brings a splash of color, flavor, or richness, building a dish that’s festive in both taste and appearance.
- Raspberry or Cranberry Jello (6 oz): The flavorful foundation, lending a vibrant hue and that signature jiggly texture.
- Boiling Water (2 cups): Essential for dissolving the Jello crystals and creating a smooth, unified base.
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce (14 oz can): Adds sweet-tart cranberry flavor and little bursts of berry throughout.
- Crushed Pineapple, undrained (8 oz can): Brings juicy sweetness and a subtle tropical note, plus a bit of extra texture.
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy topping.
- Cream Cheese, softened (8 oz): Creates the rich, tangy base for the dreamy topping.
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer just enough to make it dessert-worthy.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the topping.
- Heavy Whipping Cream or Whipped Topping (1 cup): Fluffs up the topping, making it light, airy, and utterly spoonable.
How to Make Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping
Step 1: Dissolve the Jello
Start by pouring the raspberry or cranberry Jello powder into a large mixing bowl. Carefully add the boiling water and stir for a full two minutes, ensuring every last crystal dissolves. This step is crucial for a smooth, flawless base without any graininess.
Step 2: Add the Fruit and Nuts
Once the Jello is fully dissolved, stir in the whole berry cranberry sauce until it’s well distributed and the mixture turns a gorgeous ruby color. Next, mix in the entire can of crushed pineapple (juice and all) for juicy sweetness, and fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if you love a little crunch.
Step 3: Chill the Jello Layer
Pour this vibrant mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a pretty serving bowl. Place it in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours, or until it’s completely set and jiggly. This is the perfect time to prep the rest of your meal or simply relax!
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
Once the Jello layer has set, it’s time to whip up that dreamy topping. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture to create a cloud-like topping.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Spoon the cream cheese topping over the chilled Jello layer, smoothing it out in an even layer. For best results, return the Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping to the fridge for at least 30 minutes so everything is perfectly chilled and ready to serve.
How to Serve Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping

Garnishes
For an extra-festive touch, sprinkle the top with sugared cranberries, a handful of chopped nuts, or even a few curls of orange zest. The pop of color and texture makes each slice of Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with savory holiday fare like roast turkey, ham, or stuffing. The tart-sweet flavors and creamy topping contrast perfectly with rich casseroles and roasted veggies, making it a crowd-pleasing side or a light dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful! Try layering the salad in individual parfait glasses for a modern twist, or use festive cookie cutters to create shapes before topping with cream cheese. However you serve it, Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping always brings a smile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making each bite a little more delicious the next day!
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping, as the Jello and creamy topping can separate and lose their lovely texture after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
No reheating needed! This is a true no-bake, icebox classic. Simply slice and serve straight from the refrigerator for the most refreshing, creamy experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
Absolutely! While raspberry or cranberry Jello are traditional and compliment the cranberry sauce, cherry or even strawberry Jello can work in a pinch. Just make sure the flavors blend well with the other ingredients.
Is it okay to skip the nuts?
Of course! The nuts are optional and just add a pleasant crunch. If you have allergies or simply prefer a smoother texture, feel free to leave them out—your Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping will still be delightful.
Can I use pre-made whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Yes! Store-bought whipped topping (like Cool Whip) is a convenient substitute for heavy cream. It folds into the cream cheese just as easily and keeps the topping light and fluffy.
How far in advance can I make this salad?
You can prepare Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping a full day ahead. In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld and gives you more time to enjoy your gathering.
Can I make this in a different dish or mold?
Definitely! While a 9×13-inch dish is traditional, you can use any decorative bowl or even a ring mold for a classic presentation. Just be sure your container is large enough to hold both layers comfortably.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sharing Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping with friends and family. It’s festive, sweet, and creamy—an instant classic for any occasion. Give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite on your holiday table!
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Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a classic American dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring a fruity gelatin base mixed with whole berry cranberry sauce, crushed pineapple, and optional nuts, it’s topped with a smooth and fluffy cream cheese and whipped cream layer. This no-bake recipe is easy to prepare ahead and offers a balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a creamy finish.
Ingredients
For the Jello Layer:
- 1 (6 oz) package raspberry or cranberry Jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple (undrained)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream or whipped topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Jello Layer: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the Jello powder in 2 cups of boiling water and stir thoroughly until fully dissolved. Add the whole berry cranberry sauce and mix well. Then, fold in the undrained crushed pineapple and, if using, the chopped walnuts or pecans. Pour this combined mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a decorative serving bowl. Refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours, or until completely set.
- Make the Cream Cheese Topping: Once the Jello layer is firm, prepare the topping by beating the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, combining thoroughly while retaining airiness.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the chilled and set Jello layer. Place the salad back in the refrigerator and chill for an additional 30 minutes to allow the topping to firm slightly before serving.
Notes
- This salad can be prepared a day in advance to enhance flavors and ease holiday meal prep.
- For a festive presentation, garnish the top with sugared cranberries or extra chopped nuts just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 4-6 hours chilling)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 1/12th of recipe)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg