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Creamy Frozen Cranberry Salad with Walnuts

This creamy frozen cranberry salad with walnuts offers a delightful blend of sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy flavors, making it the perfect make-ahead dish for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 265
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Creamy Base
  • 12 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup Miracle Whip
  • 2 Tbsp sugar
  • 1 carton (16 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Fruity Ingredients
  • 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained Ensure it is well-drained to avoid icy texture.
  • 2 cups chopped walnuts
  • 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 2 cans (16 oz each) whole-berry cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped Optional for a brighter flavor.
For Serving
  • to taste lettuce leaves For serving.

Method
 

Preparation of Creamy Base
  1. In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, Miracle Whip, and sugar until smooth.
  2. Fold in the thawed whipped topping and set the mixture aside.
Combine Fruit and Crunch
  1. In a second large bowl, combine the drained pineapple, chopped walnuts, sweetened shredded coconut, and whole-berry cranberry sauce.
  2. If using, add the optional chopped cranberries and stir gently.
Fold Everything Together
  1. Add the fruit mixture to the cream cheese mixture and fold together gently.
  2. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a fluffy texture.
Pack and Freeze
  1. Spread the mixture into a 13x9-inch dish or divide it into three foil-lined 8x4-inch loaf pans.
  2. Cover well and place in the freezer until firm, about 4 hours.
Slice and Serve
  1. Take the salad out of the freezer 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
  2. Cut into squares or slices and place on lettuce leaves to serve cold.

Notes

For better texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Serve cold and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.