Layered Cranberry Gelatin Salad is a stunning, festive dish that combines sweet, tart, and creamy layers into one delicious bite. Made with fruity gelatin, tangy cranberries, and a smooth cream cheese layer, this salad is perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a favorite side dish or light dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beautifully Layered – A show-stopping dish with distinct layers of fruity and creamy goodness.
- Perfect for Holidays – A classic Thanksgiving and Christmas favorite.
- Sweet and Tangy Flavor – The balance of cranberries, pineapple, and cream cheese is irresistible.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep it the night before for a stress-free meal.
- Versatile – Serve as a side dish or a light, refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cranberry Gelatin Layer:
- Cranberry-flavored gelatin (such as Jell-O)
- Boiling water
- Cold water
- Whole-berry cranberry sauce
- Crushed pineapple (drained)
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Make the Cranberry Gelatin Layer
- In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
- Add cold water, then mix in the cranberry sauce, drained pineapple, and nuts if using.
- Pour half of the mixture into a serving dish or gelatin mold. Refrigerate for about 1-2 hours, or until firm.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the set cranberry gelatin layer.
- Gently pour the remaining cranberry gelatin mixture on top.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
- To serve, slice and garnish with whipped cream, fresh cranberries, or mint leaves if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Citrus Twist – Add orange zest or substitute some water with orange juice for extra brightness.
- Nut-Free Option – Skip the nuts for a smoother texture.
- Lighter Version – Use sugar-free gelatin and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Extra Fruity – Mix in diced apples or sliced grapes for added texture.
- Tropical Flair – Use coconut yogurt in the cream layer for a tropical touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as gelatin can break down when frozen.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the salad a day in advance for best results.
FAQs
Can I use different flavors of gelatin?
Yes! Raspberry or cherry gelatin works well as substitutes.
How do I keep the layers from mixing?
Make sure the bottom layer is fully set before adding the cream cheese layer.
What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
You can substitute with chopped fresh cranberries and extra sugar.
Can I make this in individual servings?
Yes! Pour the mixture into small cups or ramekins for easy serving.
How do I unmold the gelatin easily?
Dip the mold in warm water for a few seconds, then invert onto a plate.
Can I add whipped topping?
Absolutely! A dollop of whipped cream enhances the flavor.
Do I have to use sour cream in the cream layer?
No, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or heavy cream.
Can I make this without nuts?
Yes, the nuts are optional and can be omitted if preferred.
What size dish should I use?
A 9×13-inch dish works well, but you can also use a round mold for a decorative look.
Is this a dessert or a side dish?
It works as both! It’s traditionally served as a side but is sweet enough for dessert.
Conclusion
Layered Cranberry Gelatin Salad is a festive, flavorful dish that adds color and elegance to any holiday table. With its sweet-tart cranberry flavor and creamy contrast, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Make it ahead for an easy, delicious side or dessert that everyone will love!
Print
Layered Cranberry Gelatin Salad
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 4 ½ hours
- Yield: 8–10 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Description
This Layered Cranberry Gelatin Salad is a beautiful, festive dish perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering. With three distinct layers—a tangy cranberry gelatin base, a creamy middle layer, and a light, fluffy topping—it’s both refreshing and indulgent. Serve it as a side dish or a light dessert!
Ingredients
Bottom Layer (Cranberry Gelatin Base)
- 1 (6 oz) package raspberry or cranberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch!)
- 1 small orange, peeled and finely chopped (or 1/2 cup mandarin oranges, drained)
Middle Layer (Creamy Filling)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Top Layer (Fluffy Topping)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 cup whipped topping, thawed)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cranberry Gelatin Layer
- In a large bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Stir in cranberry sauce, breaking it up with a fork until well mixed.
- Add drained pineapple, chopped oranges, and nuts (if using).
- Pour into a lightly greased 9×13-inch dish or a mold for a shaped presentation.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Middle Layer
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread evenly over the chilled cranberry gelatin layer.
- Return to the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Make the Fluffy Topping
- In a bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. (If using whipped topping, just fold in vanilla extract.)
- Gently spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange zest, or chopped nuts for extra flair.
- Slice and serve chilled as a side dish or dessert!
Serving & Storage
- Serve cold as a side for holiday meals or as a light dessert.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Do not freeze, as gelatin may become watery when thawed.
Notes
- Want extra citrus flavor? Add 1 tbsp orange zest to the cranberry layer.
- Make it ahead! This salad tastes even better the next day.
- Prefer individual servings? Pour into small cups for easy grab-and-go portions.
- No cream cheese? Use plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.