Cranberry Cream Cheese Mold(Prep Time: 25 Minutes. Setting Time: 6 Hours.)
A vibrant cranberry cream cheese mold combining tart cranberry flavors with smooth cream cheese, perfect for holiday gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir boiling water into gelatin in a large bowl at least 2 minutes or until dissolved.
- Stir in cold water and cinnamon.
- Pour 2 cups of gelatin into a medium bowl.
- Refrigerate about 1 1/2 hours or until thickened.
- Reserve remaining gelatin at room temperature.
- Stir apples and cranberry sauce into thickened gelatin.
- Spoon into 6-cup mold.
- Refrigerate about 30 minutes or until set but not firm.
- Stir reserved gelatin gradually into cream cheese in a small bowl with a wire whisk until smooth.
- Pour over gelatin layer in mold.
- Refrigerate 4 hours or until firm.
- Unmold the mold.
- Store leftover in the fridge.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing with the gelatin. If you don't have cinnamon, nutmeg can be a nice alternative for added warmth. You can also substitute the chopped apple with diced pears or even crushed pineapple for a different flavor. This dessert is great for holiday gatherings and pairs beautifully with Coconut Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Mold can be served as a festive dessert or a unique side dish at holiday meals. It pairs well with savory dishes like Bar-B-Que Wieners or can be enjoyed on its own. Garnish with fresh cranberries or mint leaves for an attractive presentation. It’s also a delightful addition to a potluck spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Mold in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, do not freeze, as the texture may change. Serve chilled directly from the fridge, and if it’s been a while, check for firmness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Cream Cheese Mold(Prep Time: 25 Minutes. Setting Time: 6 Hours.) contains roughly 246 calories, with 2g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this mold ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making a day in advance. Just ensure it's stored properly in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste, making it a great choice for busy holiday preparations.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Both will give a creamy texture while slightly altering the flavor. Adjust sweetness as needed since yogurt can be tangier than cream cheese.
Is it possible to use fresh cranberries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they should be cooked down with sugar and a bit of water until softened. This will balance the tartness. Keep in mind that it may change the texture and flavor slightly compared to using canned whole cranberry sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).