Frozen Cranberry Delight
A creamy, fruity frozen dessert combining cranberries, pineapple, and pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or a refreshing treat on warm days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sugar; mix well.
- Stir in cranberry sauce, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans.
- Fold in whipped cream.
- Spread the mixture in an 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Freeze until firm.
- Remove from freezer 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you want a touch of spice, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Consider using walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor profile. This Frozen Cranberry Delight can be made a day in advance for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful treat as a refreshing dessert after a holiday meal or as a sweet addition to a summer picnic. It pairs beautifully with Lettuce Dip for a balanced spread. Consider garnishing with additional pecans or fresh cranberries for an appealing presentation. This dish is perfect alongside light salads or savory dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To enjoy, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving so it softens slightly. Avoid refreezing after thawing, as it may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frozen Cranberry Delight contains roughly 445 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 a different type of fruit instead of cranberries?
Yes, you can substitute the whole cranberry sauce with a fruit preserves or puree, such as raspberry or strawberry, for a different flavor. Just ensure it has a similar consistency to maintain the texture of the dessert.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use a vegan cream cheese alternative and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Check the mayonnaise to ensure it's dairy-free as well, or make your own using aquafaba.
How long does this dessert take to freeze?
Typically, this Frozen Cranberry Delight will need at least 4-6 hours to freeze until firm. For best results, consider leaving it overnight to ensure it's completely set before serving.
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).