Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert for Every Occasion

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert recipe and my mind bring forth memories of the holiday season. The first time I ever made it was during a family get-together all ready for a warm Christmas dinner.

The tartness of the cranberries and the smooth, creamy texture of the cream cheese was an instant appreciation. For any festive occasion, this dessert offers lovely sweet-and-tart contrasts.

A rich buttery crust plus a cream cheese filling plus the bright cranberry topping-for these things, this dessert lends a shower of color and flavor that everyone will be asking for second helpings.

Why I Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert?

I first made this cranberry cream cheese dessert for a last-minute Friendsgiving. I wanted something festive but didn’t require baking or special pans. 

A creamy, tangy, nutty dessert that’s now my go-to for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and even summer BBQs. 

The cranberry jello gives it a beautiful color, the cream cheese layer is rich but not heavy, and the pecans add a little crunch. 

If you’re searching for a simple cream cheese dessert recipe that feels special, this is it!

How To Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 12 servings
• Calories: About 280 per serving

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk or spatula
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Offset spatula (optional)
• Can opener

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this cranberry cream cheese dessert:

• 1 package (6 oz.) cranberry jello
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 can (14 oz.) whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 can (8 oz.) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup chopped pecans (plus more for topping)
• 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make the Cranberry Layer
   • In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
   • Mix in the cranberry sauce, drained pineapple, and 1 cup chopped pecans.
   • Pour into a 9×13-inch dish. Chill in the fridge for about 2 hours, or until set.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
   • In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add sour cream and vanilla. Mix until well combined and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Dessert
   • Once the cranberry layer is set, gently spread the cream cheese mixture on top.
   • Sprinkle extra chopped pecans over the cream cheese layer for crunch.
4. Chill and Serve
   • Refrigerate for at least 1 more hour before serving. Slice and enjoy!

What Is the Best Soft Cheese with Cranberries?

Cream cheese is my top pick for cranberry desserts. It’s smooth and mild and blends perfectly with the tartness of cranberries. 

If you want something different, mascarpone or mild goat cheese works well for a fancier twist.

What Is the Fancy Cheese with Cranberries?

If you’re searching for an elegant cheese, Wensleydale with cranberries is a timeless choice. Its crumbly texture and sweet-tart flavor make it ideal for cheese boards or as a distinctive topping for bread and crackers.

Tips and Tricks

• Make sure the cranberry layer is fully set before adding the cream cheese topping so the layers stay neat.
• Use an offset spatula for smooth spreading.
• If you want a firmer cream cheese layer, pop the dessert in the freezer for 20 minutes before serving.

My Secret Tips for Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert

• Pineapple Swap: For a twist on the classic recipe, consider using mandarin oranges instead of pineapple. This variation adds a fun twist to the traditional cranberry pineapple dessert.
• Nut-Free Version: To make this dessert nut-free, omit the pecans. The flavors will still be delicious!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this dessert a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and keep it chilled.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors improve over time!

Exciting Variations and Serving Ideas

• Cranberry Pretzel Dessert Recipe: For a salty-sweet spin, swap the base for a crushed pretzel crust. Press crushed pretzels with melted butter and sugar into the dish before pouring in the cranberry layer.
• Cheese Danish Style: Spoon the cranberry cream cheese mixture into puff pastry cups for a pretty appetizer.
• Cranberry Cream Cheese Appetizer: Serve small squares on a platter with pretzel sticks or bread rounds for a fun party bite.
• Cranberry Fluff: Fold mini marshmallows into the cream cheese layer for a fluffier texture.
• Cheese Dip: Serve the cream cheese topping as a dip with graham crackers or apple slices.

Video Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Cranberry cream cheese dessert isn’t just any sweet; it’s a dance of tastes that are sour and creamy, sweet and cool. Cake List hear.

Dessert sets the mood for any event, whether it’s given at a party or shared in a quiet moment of indulgence. I think you should give it a try and see what magic it works.