Ingredients:

  • Cranberry or Cherry Gelatin Mix (6 oz / 170 g, two 3 oz packets)
  • Boiling Water (2 cups / 475 ml)
  • Cold Water (1 cup / 240 ml)
  • Fresh Cranberries (1 cup, finely chopped)
  • Mandarin Oranges (1 (15 oz) can, well drained)
  • Orange Zest (1 Tablespoon)
  • Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (1/2 cup)
  • Cream Cheese (8 oz block, completely softened)
  • Powdered Sugar (1/4 cup, sifted)
  • Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Frozen Whipped Topping (8 oz tub, thawed)

Instructions:

  1. Prep Fruit: Finely chop (or pulse in a food processor) the fresh cranberries. Drain the mandarin oranges thoroughly.
  2. Dissolve Gelatin: Pour the gelatin powder into a large heatproof bowl. Add the 2 cups of rapidly boiling water and whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until completely dissolved and no granules remain.
  3. Cool: Add the 1 cup of cold water to the mixture to speed up the cooling process.
  4. Incorporate Solids: Once the liquid has cooled slightly (no longer steaming), gently fold in the chopped cranberries, mandarin segments, orange zest, and chopped nuts.
  5. Pour and Initial Set: Pour the mixture into the prepared 9x13 dish. Refrigerate for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the gelatin is firm around the edges but still sticky and soft in the center (the 'semi-set' stage).
  6. Whip Cream Cheese: Using an electric mixer (or a sturdy whisk), beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and lump-free.
  7. Sweeten: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  8. Fold in Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula until no streaks of cream cheese remain. Do not overmix.
  9. Spread Topping: Once the gelatin base is semi-set (it should support the weight of the topping without breaking through), carefully spread the creamy topping evenly over the surface.
  10. Final Set: Return the salad to the refrigerator. Chill for a further 3 to 4 hours, or until the entire salad is completely firm and set.
  11. Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled.