Cranberry Frozen Salad Or Dessert
A refreshing frozen dessert combining sweet cranberries, pineapple, and creamy textures, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cool, fruity treat on warm days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the cream cheese, crushed pineapple, sugar, and Cool Whip in a large bowl.
- Fold in the whole cranberry sauce (and pecans if desired).
- Pour the mixture into a lightly buttered 8- or 9-inch pan.
- Freeze until firm, then serve sliced or scooped on a lettuce leaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. If you want to reduce the sweetness, consider using a low-sugar Cool Whip or a sugar substitute. You can also add chopped nuts for extra crunch or mix in some mini marshmallows for added texture. This salad is versatile and can be adapted to include other fruits if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious frozen salad on a crisp lettuce leaf for a refreshing presentation. It pairs beautifully with a light main dish, such as grilled chicken or fish. Consider serving it alongside other holiday favorites or as part of a potluck spread. It's also great as a light dessert option after a rich meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. This dessert can be kept frozen for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for about 3 hours before serving. Avoid refreezing once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Frozen Salad Or Dessert contains roughly 554 calories, with 6g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for regular cream cheese. However, this may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the final dish. It still should work well with the other ingredients, keeping the overall taste enjoyable.
Is it possible to make this dessert a day ahead?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day in advance. Just prepare the salad, pour it into your pan, and freeze it. This allows the flavors to meld, and it's ready to serve when you need it, making it a great option for gatherings or parties.
Can I add other fruits to the salad?
Yes, feel free to customize this dish by adding other fruits like chopped strawberries or mandarin oranges. Just be mindful of the moisture content as it may affect the texture. Make sure to drain any additional fruits well before mixing into the salad.
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).