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Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese

Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese

Introduction

Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese is a delightful and refreshing dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. This recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the creaminess of cream cheese, creating a delectable and visually appealing dessert. The vibrant red color of the cranberries adds a festive touch to your table, making it a standout dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make this Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 package (3 ounces) of raspberry-flavored gelatin

– 1 cup of boiling water

– 1 can (14 ounces) of whole berry cranberry sauce

– 1 cup of crushed pineapple, drained

– 1 cup of chopped walnuts

– 1 package (8 ounces) of cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup of sour cream

– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

– 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

– Fresh cranberries and mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin

In a large bowl, dissolve the raspberry-flavored gelatin in boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

Step 2: Add Cranberry Sauce and Pineapple

Add the whole berry cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple to the gelatin mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Add Walnuts

Fold in the chopped walnuts into the gelatin mixture. Make sure the walnuts are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Pour the Mixture into a Mold

Pour the gelatin mixture into a mold or a glass dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.

Step 5: Chill the Gelatin

Place the mold or dish in the refrigerator and let the gelatin chill for at least 3-4 hours, or until it is fully set.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.

Step 7: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled gelatin layer. Use a spatula to create a smooth and even layer.

Step 8: Chill Again

Return the mold or dish to the refrigerator and let it chill for an additional 2-3 hours, or until the cream cheese layer is set.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the Cranberry Jello Salad with fresh cranberries and mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance. Slice the salad into individual portions and serve chilled.

Variations

There are several variations you can try to customize your Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese:

– Instead of raspberry-flavored gelatin, you can experiment with other flavors such as strawberry or cherry.

– If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can add a bit more sugar to the cream cheese mixture.

– For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice or orange zest to the cream cheese mixture.

– If you are not a fan of walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans or almonds.

– To make it more festive, you can add other fruits like sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges to the gelatin mixture.

Tips

– Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess liquid in the gelatin.

– Soften the cream cheese at room temperature before beating it to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

– Allow enough time for each layer to set properly before moving on to the next step. This will ensure clean and distinct layers.

– If you are in a hurry, you can use a quick-set gelatin to speed up the chilling process.

– To make the salad ahead of time, you can prepare the gelatin layer and cream cheese layer separately. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain its freshness.

Conclusion

Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese is a delightful and elegant dessert that is sure to impress your guests. The combination of tart cranberries, creamy cream cheese, and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a dessert, this Cranberry Jello Salad is bound to become a favorite among your family and friends. So go ahead and give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?

– Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. Simply cook them with sugar until they soften and burst, then mash them to create a sauce-like consistency.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream?

– Yes, you can use low-fat versions of cream cheese and sour cream. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may be slightly different.

3. How long can I store the Cranberry Jello Salad?

– The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

– Yes, you can make a vegan version of this recipe by using plant-based gelatin substitutes, such as agar-agar, and dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.

5. Can I substitute the walnuts with a different nut?

– Yes, you can use any nut of your choice or omit them altogether if you have allergies or preferences.

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