This Cranberry Jello Salad features a tangy cranberry layer studded with fruit and nuts, topped with a luscious cream cheese mixture. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy—all while being mindful of points.

Ingredients

For the Cranberry Jello Layer:

  • 1 (0.3 oz) package sugar-free cranberry gelatin mix
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • ½ cup cold water
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 medium apple, diced (about 1 cup)
  • ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional, for texture)

For the Cream Cheese Topping:

  • 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve or Stevia)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp light whipped topping (optional, for extra fluff)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Jello Layer

  1. Dissolve Gelatin: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar-free gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir for about 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Add the ½ cup cold water and stir.
  2. Add Fruits and Nuts: Mix in the chopped cranberries, diced apple, drained pineapple, and walnuts (if using). Stir until evenly combined.
  3. Chill the Layer: Pour the mixture into an 8×8-inch dish or a decorative serving bowl. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours or until fully set.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Topping

  1. Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar substitute, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and fluffy.
  2. Fold in Whipped Topping: If desired, gently fold in the light whipped topping to make the topping lighter and airier.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. Spread Topping: Once the cranberry layer is fully set, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the jello.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle with a few extra chopped walnuts or cranberries for garnish, if desired.
  3. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for Success

  1. Fresh Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are too tart for your liking, you can lightly sweeten them with a sprinkle of sugar substitute before adding to the mix.
  2. Texture Options: Skip the walnuts if you prefer a smoother texture or substitute with pecans.
  3. Make It Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it ideal for holiday meals.
  4. Serve Individual Portions: Layer the cranberry jello and cream cheese topping in small glasses or jars for an elegant presentation.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 90
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • WW Points (Blue, Green, Purple): ~2-3 points per serving (based on using sugar-free gelatin and reduced-fat cream cheese; toppings may adjust the points slightly).

Serving Suggestions

  • As a Side Dish: This pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or turkey for a festive spread.
  • As a Dessert: Serve chilled for a refreshing, creamy treat to round out a meal.

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Do Not Freeze: Freezing may alter the texture of the jello and cream cheese topping.

This WW Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful, low-point option for holiday meals or everyday indulgence. It’s easy to prepare, perfectly balanced, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!