Creamy cranberry salad is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of whipped cream and marshmallows. This recipe adds a twist to the classic cranberry salad by incorporating cream cheese for extra creaminess and pecans for a crunchy texture. It’s a perfect dish for holiday gatherings or any time you’re craving a sweet and tangy treat.
Ingredients for Creamy Cranberry Salad
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Creamy Cranberry Salad
- Prepare the Cranberries:
- Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems or blemishes. Place them in a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped.
- Mix the Cranberries and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped cranberries and granulated sugar. Stir well to coat the cranberries in the sugar. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to allow the cranberries to macerate.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Fold in the Whipped Cream:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it is fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Combine the Cranberries and Cream Mixture:
- Add the macerated cranberries, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans to the cream cheese mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and coated in the cream mixture.
- Chill the Salad:
- Transfer the creamy cranberry salad to a serving bowl or dish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
- Serve the Salad:
- Before serving, garnish the creamy cranberry salad with additional whipped cream, marshmallows, and pecans, if desired. Serve cold as a delicious and refreshing dessert.
About the Main Ingredients
Cranberries:
Fresh cranberries are the star ingredient in this salad, providing a tart and tangy flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of the other ingredients. Cranberries are also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Cream Cheese:
Cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the salad, as well as a tangy flavor that complements the cranberries. Make sure to use softened cream cheese for easy mixing.
Heavy Cream:
Heavy cream is whipped and folded into the cream cheese mixture to add lightness and creaminess. It also helps to mellow out the tartness of the cranberries.
Mini Marshmallows:
Mini marshmallows add sweetness and a soft, chewy texture to the salad. They also add a nostalgic touch to the dish, reminiscent of classic marshmallow salads.
Pecans:
Chopped pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the salad. They also provide a contrast to the soft cranberries and marshmallows.
Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the salad. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Creamy cranberry salad is a delicious and festive dessert that is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. With its creamy texture, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
