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
Scale
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.